For thousands of years, the Whadjuk Nyoongar people have lived on the lands of Boorloo (Perth) and used yarning to pass history, culture and perspectives of the future between generations.

TEDxPerth acknowledges the Whadjuk Nyoongar people as the Custodians of these lands and waterways, and extends our respect to Elders past, present and emerging.

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About this talk 

Spoken word artist Jesse Oliver uses his words, emotions, and experiences to illuminate the way forward.  

A poetry slam champion and master of the verse, Jesse unveils both vulnerability and strength in every verse. His word slam poetry defies outdated boundaries, where every word pulsates with life.  

The poetry community brings together a variety of marginalised voices. Through listening to these voices, Jesse’s poetic message calls for a revolution of love. 

About the speaker 

Jesse is a spoken word artist who believes that the intimacy of poetry has the potential for positive change. In 2017 Jesse competed in the Word Travels Australian Poetry Slam where he was crowned (Perth’s first) National Poetry Slam Champion. 
 
It was a passion to overcome a personal struggle with social anxiety that led to Jesse’s first performance. Although writing had always supported him through darker times in life, Jesse wanted to connect with others and open a discussion about his experiences of homelessness, gender transition and mental illness.  

After stuttering and shaking his way through his first year, he succeeded in establishing himself on a national stage. Since then, Jesse has turned his attention outwards in response to the uncertainty and fear of the times.  

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