Janay Blakely is a poet and children’s book author who has been published multiple times in the award-winning literary magazine ‘Elysium’. In addition to this, Janay has taught poetry classes for the Miami Dade Public Library as well as for The Greater Miami Continental Societies. Having been diagnosed with bipolar disorder at 19, but experiencing symptoms since 13, Janay is an advocate for all things mental health related. Her experience with having big feelings inspired her educator reviewed children’s book “My Feelings Are Big”.

Janay has been writing poetry and performing spoken word for over 20 years while participating in and winning oratory competitions such as ‘Young Talent, Big Dreams’ as well as performing professionally and hosting community open mic events. In Janay’s spare time she can be found enjoying comedy specials as well as enjoying all things that make life worthwhile such as laughter, love, and breakfast.