Born KaNikki Jakarta, being interpreted as “great writer” at birth, KaNikki is living up to her name. She is an Award Winning Poet who has traveled the US and UK as a performance poet. KaNikki has founded, facilitated, and/or hosted 15 presentations in the last 17 years ranging from open mics, award ceremonies, conferences, and workshops. With over 26 years of writing and almost 2 decades on the poetry scene, KaNikki has opened for Jill Scott, Raheem DaVaughn, and Lyfe Jennings. She has authored 3 works of fiction: IN REAL LIFE, THE COLOR BLUE, & THE OTHER SIDE OF PRETTY, 2 poetry collections: KaNikki Who? & The Skillz of a Sistah, a poetry cd: The Introduction of KaNikki Jakarta and a memoir: A Peace of Mine, How to be a wife of an Epileptic, Honor your Vows, and Honor Yourself. KaNikki J. writes and recites what she calls “real life fiction.” She says, “If you think something I say on the mic may change your life; you’re probably right.”

KaNikki hosts every first Monday at Busboys and Poets Shirlington.