George the Poet

George the Poet is an influential lyric artist, performer and speaker who has transformed the way audiences engage with social, political and economic issues. Renowned for his ability to turn complex current affairs and taboo subjects into compelling spoken word performances, George has become one of the most respected voices in British culture. Blending poetry, storytelling and commentary, he challenges perceptions while entertaining audiences with his distinctive style. As an award-winning performer, broadcaster and creative thinker, George is frequently invited to speak at conferences, corporate events and cultural institutions, sharing insights on society, identity, leadership and communication.

George’s journey began in the worlds of rap and grime, where he developed his passion for lyricism and storytelling. While studying Politics, Psychology and Sociology at the University of Cambridge, he expanded his artistic approach by moving into performance poetry. His breakthrough came with the release of ‘My City’ in 2012, which attracted the attention of the BBC and led to him becoming the face of Radio 1’s Hackney Weekend coverage. The same year, he was commissioned by Sky Sports F1 to create poetry inspired by the Formula One season. Over time, George established himself as a leading cultural commentator, combining artistic creativity with academic insight.

Alongside his performance career, George has earned widespread critical acclaim for his creative projects. His podcast, ‘Have You Heard George’s Podcast?’, debuted in 2018 and quickly became one of the most celebrated audio productions in the UK. The series won multiple industry honours, including five British Podcast Awards and a Peabody Award, making it the first podcast produced outside the United States to receive the prestigious accolade. In 2024, he further cemented his reputation as an author with the publication of ‘Track Record: Me, Music, and the War on Blackness’.

Beyond his artistic achievements, George continues to influence public discourse through cultural leadership and advocacy. Since 2018, he has served on the National Council of Arts Council England, helping to shape the future of the arts sector. His selection to contribute to the Royal Wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle demonstrated the national significance of his work. Whether performing on stage, hosting discussions or delivering keynote speeches, George brings intelligence, authenticity and creativity to every audience.

George delivers thought-provoking presentations that combine storytelling, spoken word performance and cultural insight. Drawing on his experience across broadcasting, music and public engagement, he explores topics including social change, communication, creativity and modern Britain. His ability to make complex issues accessible ensures audiences remain engaged throughout. Having performed for major organisations and national events, George offers a unique blend of entertainment and education. His captivating stage presence, combined with his talent for provoking meaningful discussion, makes him an exceptional choice for conferences, leadership events, educational programmes and corporate gatherings.

Here are some of the key milestones that define George the Poet’s remarkable career:

  • 2024 – Published ‘Track Record: Me, Music, and the War on Blackness’, exploring race, culture and identity through personal experience.
  • 2020 – Received the Peabody Award for ‘Have You Heard George’s Podcast?’, becoming the first non-American winner in the radio and podcast category.
  • 2020 – Named Podcast of the Year by the Broadcasting Press Guild for ‘Have You Heard George’s Podcast?’.
  • 2019 – Won five British Podcast Awards for ‘Have You Heard George’s Podcast?’.
  • 2019 – Earned a Peabody Award for ‘Have You Heard George’s Podcast?’, recognising its cultural impact and storytelling excellence.
  • 2018 – Opened the Royal Wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle with a specially commissioned spoken word performance.
  • 2018 – Elected as a member of the National Council of Arts Council England.
  • 2015 – Shortlisted for the Critics’ Choice Award at the Brit Awards.
  • 2012 – Commissioned by Sky Sports F1 to write poetry reflecting on the Formula One season.
  • 2012 – Premiered his breakthrough single ‘My City’ and was selected by BBC Radio 1 as the face of Hackney Weekend.

“George was warm and generous with his time, insights and uplifting commentary both in conversation and before and after the event when speaking with members of the public and Benjamin’s siblings and wife. Feedback on the night was overwhelmingly positive with audience members sharing that it was moving, inspiring and motivating and Benjamin’s family delighted with how George and the whole event honoured Benjamin’s legacy. It was an absolute joy to facilitate the conversation with George.” – Lorraine, University of Birmingham

“Please can you pass on our massive thanks to George, he was brilliant, really inspiring and it was such a good session!… Hopefully, we’ll be able to work together again soon!” – Kerrie, Talent Acquisition and Event Coordinator, Compare the Market

“The event went really well thank you! We’ve had such great feedback and George did an amazing job at sharing the key messages we wanted to focus on. Thanks for your support in getting this organised” – Shivam, Global Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Coordinator, IHG Hotels and Resorts

“We had our first session today and George was so well received! So thank you so much for your support, and please pass on our thanks to George” – Alice, KPNG

“Thank you very much for your incredible contribution to KPMG’s Global Storytelling Masterclass. We had more than 4,000 colleagues from over 50 countries around the world tune into the session, and from all corners of the globe the response and feedback to your session was incredible. Our teams were moved by your words and inspired by your story. Thank you again for your words and your contribution, I hope we have the chance to collaborate again.” – Mark, KPMG

“Is there any way you could pass my thanks through to George for being so warm, open and approachable! It was such a great session, genuinely insightful listening to his story and views, I’ve had so many requests to bring him back again already! ” – Dee, Employee Experience Manager, My Unidays