Currently Artist in Residence for poetry collective EMPOWORD, Desree explores intersectionality, justice and social commentary, occasionally throwing in a f*ckboy poem.   

 

Desree was shortlisted for both the performance and film category in 2020 and recipient of the 2019's Highly Commended Out-Spoken Performance Prize. Also the finalist in 2018’s Hammer & Tongue final and TEDx speaker, Desree has featured at events around the UK and internationally, including Glastonbury Festival 2019, Bowery Poetry Club New York, Royal Albert Hall and Sofar Sounds.  

 

A producer for a series of live events called WORD UP! based in the borough of Brent, and Word of Mouth London, a video team who integrate live performances with online videos to collective stories of UK culture; Desree curates both live events and visual media, booking acts from around the world. 

 

Also, a spoken word educator and facilitator, Desree uses her art to engage with young people and adults in schools, youth groups, offices and organisations – anywhere people have a story.   

 

Desree was also commissioned by Half Moon Theatre and Apples & Snakes, to write and act in a spoken word play called CROWDED alongside poets, Laura Rae and Slam the Poet. Following a Nationwide tour, CROWDED received countless praise and went on to win an OFF-WEST END award.  

 

In 2019, Desree paired with visual artist Siannon Saunders, to create her first zine Find Yourself A Place and in 2020, she released her first single “Home” alongside Brighton based artist and producer, Bessi. Following the sell-out of Desree's first self-published pamphlet I Find My Strength In Simple Things in 2017, Burning Eye Books republished the pamphlet in May 2021.