Zeda Stew is a Cincinnati-based poet, writer, storyteller, oral historian, and community advocate whose work explores identity, resilience, humanity, and the stories that connect us.

A National Poetry Slam Champion, Zeda brings a powerful blend of artistry, authenticity, and lived experience to the stage. Through spoken word, music, and storytelling, she creates experiences that encourage audiences to reflect, connect, and recognize the power of their own voices.

Beyond the stage, Zeda works in oral history, historical interpretation, and community engagement, using storytelling to preserve history, amplify underrepresented voices, and build meaningful connections across communities.

As the Southwest Regional Ambassador for the Ohio Poetry Association, she continues her commitment to strengthening artistic communities, creating opportunities for collaboration, and building bridges between poets and the people their words have yet to reach.

Her creative work spans live performances, commissioned poetry, workshops, public speaking, and multidisciplinary projects, including Watermelon Dreams, a spoken word album and poetry collection exploring resilience, survival, faith, and the complexities of the human experience.

At the heart of Zeda's artistry is a simple belief: Poetry belongs to everyone. Her greatest desire isn't simply to become someone's favorite poet, but to inspire people to discover the poetry within themselves and become their own.