NEW YORK (September 23, 2024) — Seedel Chris-Emenike, a rising poetic guitarist and advocate, made a powerful statement on the global stage as the exclusive artistic performer at the high-level United Nations General Assembly event focusing on adolescent sexual and reproductive health and rights. Seedel was handpicked to serve as the artistic voice for this pivotal event, chosen for her unique ability to articulate complex social issues through her powerful poetry.

The event, co-hosted by the Governments of Chile and Colombia, highlighted critical issues affecting adolescents worldwide, and Seedel’s thought-provoking performance of her original works “The Chains Have Been Broken” ,“Now I Determine My Title”, and “Dew of Heaven”, resonated deeply with an international audience of leaders, advocates, and youth voices. As the exclusive artistic performer of the event, Seedel’s poetry brought a creative and emotional dimension to the high-level policy discussions, reinforcing the urgency of action on reproductive rights and adding another layer of depth to the dialogue.

Styled exclusively by COACH for the occasion, Seedel’s presence at the event was both powerful and elegant. COACH’s sophisticated ensemble perfectly complemented her strong and compelling recital, providing an aesthetic that embodied the fusion of fashion and activism. This collaboration with COACH at such a globally significant platform underscores the brand’s commitment to supporting youth empowerment and social advocacy through artistry.

Held under the auspices of the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly, the event brought together global influencers, including the World Health Organization, PMNCH, FP2030, UNESCO, UNFPA, Women Deliver, and YieldHub, to discuss strategies for advancing adolescent reproductive rights. Seedel’s presence underscored the importance of youth participation in these discussions, presenting a fresh and compelling narrative on bodily autonomy and self-determination.

This timely performance occurred against the backdrop of heightened political discourse on reproductive rights in the United States, as Vice President Kamala Harris champions efforts to restore Adolescent rights amid her presidential campaign. The event highlighted the urgent need for policy reforms globally and aligned closely with Harris’ advocacy, sparking a national conversation that parallels the themes explored by Seedel in her performance. By integrating these political dynamics, the event successfully positioned Seedel’s performance within a broader framework of ongoing youth-led advocacy movements for adolescent rights.

“We stretch out our hand to the right, our rights, our people are calling,” Seedel proclaimed during her poem, urging global leaders and policymakers to acknowledge and act upon the demands of young people for a more inclusive and equitable future. Her words echoed through the Grand Central Ballroom at the Westin Grand Central, New York, leaving a lasting impact on attendees and reinforcing the critical role of young voices in shaping policy and discourse through her voicing “We are able to move, our ankles are able to stretch. Our minds are able to stretch. Our opinions are able to stretch. Our speech is able to stretch”.

Seedel’s performance is part of her broader efforts to leverage poetry as a catalyst for social change. Endorsed by influential figures such as Michelle Obama and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, and through her poem "On your Mark, Go! Cause We are All Set" published at the recent Paris 2024 Olympics for Team USA Triathlon. Seedel continues to use her platform to drive conversations around reproductive rights, and youth empowerment.

About Seedel

Seedel Chris-Emenike is a remarkable 19-year-old poetic guitarist and activist from New York. Her work has made a significant impact in her community and beyond. Seedel’s poetry has garnered recognition and endorsements from prominent figures such as Michelle Obama for her book “The Light We Carry” and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, who published her poem to instigate conversations around Juneteenth. Her involvement in initiatives supporting children was highlighted by organizations like the Salvation Army in December 2023, where they featured her poem for Christmas. Additionally, her poem was featured by Girl Up, United Nations Foundation 2024, for Women's Month, underscoring her commitment to empowerment and advocacy. Most recently, her poem “On Your Mark, Go! 'Cause We are All Set” was featured by USA Triathlon as part of Team USA’s representation at the Paris 2024 Olympics, celebrating the resilience, unity, and competitive spirit of Olympic athletes. You can view the feature on the USA Triathlon

Seedel has also campaigned successfully with Millie Bobby Brown on the novel product “Florence by Mills” towards girls' image upliftment and worked with Michael B Jordan on youth resilience for his COACH campaign. She was featured in the 2020 Census campaign as a TV ambassador to promote the Census initiative.Additionally, Seedel collaborated with Adwoa Aboah's Gurls Talk for Women's Equality Day, where her poem “Woman of the Hour” was highlighted for its powerful message of empowerment and equality. This collaboration reflects her dedication to using poetry as a tool for social change and community engagement.

Seedel is represented by Stirred Up Bow, a multimedia company dedicated to fostering emerging storytellers and amplifying positive change among the youth.

About Stirred Up Bow

Stirred Up Bow is a multimedia company dedicated to fostering emerging storytellers and amplifying positive change among the youth. The company cultivates vibrant communities through creative expression and advocacy.