Picture a poet whose words spark hope and love in a chaotic world—meet Cleo Wade! Born in New Orleans, this artist, author, and activist has become a cultural force, blending poetry with advocacy to inspire change. Dubbed the 'Millennial Oprah' by New York Magazine, Wade’s accessible wisdom and vibrant public art installations empower a new generation to embrace equality and resilience.
From her early days in the French Quarter to her current life in California, Wade’s journey is one of transformation. Her work, rooted in love and justice, resonates across books, speeches, and massive art pieces, making her a beacon for those seeking positive change through small, meaningful actions.
The Making of Cleo Wade
Born on September 13, 1989, in New Orleans’ vibrant French Quarter, Cleo Wade grew up with a Black father, Bernardo Wade, and a white mother, Lori Rockett. At age six, a summer poetry course ignited her love for writing, planting the seeds for her future. After graduating from St. Mary’s Dominican High School, she chased fashion dreams in New York City, interning at Missoni and working with brands like Alice + Olivia and Halston. But the glitz left her unfulfilled. Reflecting on this time, Wade realized her 'girlhood dreams' didn’t match her 'womanhood dreams,' prompting her to travel the world and rediscover her passion for poetry and art.
Cleo Wade’s Unforgettable Works
Wade’s poetry is a blend of simplicity, positivity, and fierce activism, often delivered in her signature all-caps style. Her debut book, Heart Talk: Poetic Wisdom for a Better Life (2018), is a collection of affirmations and poems that guide readers toward self-love and resilience. Where to Begin: A Small Book About Your Power to Create Big Change (2019) inspires action with mantras for navigating life’s challenges. What the Road Said (2021), a children’s book, encourages young readers to embrace their unique paths, while Remember Love: Words for Tender Times (2023) offers comfort and hope.
Beyond books, Wade’s public art installations are bold statements of love and equality. In New Orleans, her 25-foot love poem 'Respect' graces the French Quarter skyline, and 'She,' a collaboration with graffiti artist Brandon Odums, adorns a 50-foot warehouse in the Bywater neighborhood. In New York, her 'ARE YOU OK' booth at the Hester Street Fair fostered free, loving conversations, while 'Show Love Spread Love' in Los Angeles displayed 10-word mantras on 46-foot screens. Her work, infused with themes of female empowerment and social justice, invites everyone to participate in art’s transformative power.
Why Cleo Wade Matters
Cleo Wade’s impact transcends poetry, reaching into activism and community building. Named one of Fast Company’s 100 most creative people, she’s spoken at the White House, the United Nations, and Harvard, advocating for women’s health, civil rights, and inclusivity. Her TED Talk, 'Want to Change the World? Start by Being Brave Enough to Care,' has over 1.5 million views, urging courage in activism. As a board member for organizations like the National Black Theatre and the Women’s Prison Association, Wade champions marginalized voices, proving art can drive real change.
- Birth Date: September 13, 1989
- Key Works: Heart Talk, Where to Begin, What the Road Said, Remember Love
- Notable Recognition: Time Magazine’s 'poet of her generation,' New York Magazine’s 'Millennial Oprah'
Snag Heart Talk or What the Road Said and dive into Cleo Wade’s uplifting world of poetry and purpose!