Camonghne Felix facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Camonghne Felix
Born	Bronx, New York
Occupation	Writer, poet, communications strategist
Notable work	Build Yourself a Boat (2019)

Camonghne Felix (pronounced /kəmoʊn/ KUH-mohn; born in 1992) is an American writer, poet, and expert in communications. She helps people and organizations share their messages effectively.

In 2015, she became a speechwriter for Governor Andrew Cuomo. She was the first Black woman and the youngest person to have this important job. Her first book of poems, Build Yourself a Boat, was considered for the 2019 National Book Award for Poetry.

Camonghne Felix's Career

Poetry and Writing

Camonghne Felix has a strong voice in the world of poetry. She took part in Brave New Voices, a national festival for slam poetry. Her work was even shown on HBO in 2010 as part of the festival.

In 2015, she published her first small book of poems called Yolk. Her poetry was also featured in a collection called The Breakbeat Poets Volume 2: Black Girl Magic in 2018.

Her first full poetry book, Build Yourself a Boat, came out in April 2019. Many people liked it. One reviewer said it showed her "unmistakable voice and impressive talent." This book was also nominated for the National Book Award for Poetry.

In 2020, Glamour magazine featured a special poem by Felix. She wrote and performed this poem to honor Breonna Taylor. It was part of the magazine's 2020 Women of the Year film.

Communications Work

Camonghne Felix has used her skills to help many different groups. In 2015, she worked at Do Something, an organization that helps young people make a difference. She left her role after suggesting the organization focus more on supporting Black communities, especially after a tragic event in Charleston.

She also worked as a senior manager for communications at Ms. magazine. As mentioned, she was a speechwriter for Governor Andrew Cuomo in 2015. She was the first Black woman and the youngest person to hold this position.

Later, in 2019, Felix was the communications director for a political campaign in Chicago. The next year, she joined Elizabeth Warren's 2020 presidential campaign. She helped manage how the campaign shared its messages. As of 2020, she is a vice president at Blue State, a company that helps with digital strategy.

About Camonghne Felix

Camonghne Felix grew up in The Bronx, New York. She earned a special degree in fine arts from Bard College. She is also mentored by the well-known poet Mahogany L. Browne.

Awards and Recognition

• 2019 - Out 100 (a list of influential LGBTQ people)
• 2020 - Women of the Year Honoree, Glamour magazine

For her book Build Yourself a Boat:

• 2019 - Longlist nominee for the National Book Award for Poetry
• 2019 - Nominee for the 32nd Lambda Literary Awards in the Bisexual Poetry category