The Vocal Hero: Shanelle Gabriel

She's a poet, a singer, and a writer. She is so passionate about the arts that she has also serves as a teaching artist/mentor for Urban Word NYC. Shanelle Gabrielle is an inspiring role model to the younger generation with an interest in the arts, and is committed to helping young people be able to express themselves by developing their talents. Shanelle says, "It's so important that young people learn that they have a voice and that their voice matters."

Making a Difference

Shanelle recognizes that one of the biggest issues many young people face is not having a healthy outlet during their formative years. She works with young students, helping to make their words matter, combining creative writing and hip-hop, teaching lessons on everything from history to social justice. She says, " My mouth is definitely my instrument. It's my vehicle to get my message across. I love it when I can take rap lyrics to help students better grasp alliteration or explain a Ming Dynasty reference used in a hip-hop song. "

Making Her Mouth Matter

Shanelle uses her mouth to give back to her community and encourages others to do the same. "My mouth gives me the power to change today's youth and make them hear their own voice. It

gives me the power to brighten someone's day, to make someone see something in themselves that they might not have seen before. That's why it's very important that I take care of my mouth."

Keep up with Shanelle and her show schedule, blog, and music on www.shanellegabrielle.com.