Messiah Ramkissoon

New York based Hip-Hop artist, poet and incarcerated youth activist, Messiah Ramkissoon, has a message: words possess power.


A native of Trinidad and Tobago, from a household full of music and spirituality, Messiah credits his West Indian family for the roots and culture which have governed and influenced his life. It was there, at the age of four, that Messiah discovered the power of words, thanks to a second mother who encouraged him to write and perform poetry.

Journeying to The United States at the age of eleven, an experience that included struggles with the U.S. immigration and justice systems, Messiah’s early journey culminated with recognition as Youth of the Year by the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Washington and Maryland. This caught the attention of Oprah Winfrey, whose scholarship enabled Messiah to attend prestigious Howard University.

After graduating from Howard, Messiah began his career teaching poetry at Washington DC's famed Duke Ellington School of the Arts. Beginning in 2007 and continuing to the present day, Messiah has served as a mentor and programming liaison for incarcerated youth in Maryland, DC, and at Rikers Island.

Messiah is a three-time champion of the nationally-televised Apollo Theater showcase. Having shared platforms on many renowned stages, Messiah’s focus and passion remains centered in the purpose and devout execution of his artistry.

Messiah’s recently released EP “The Eye of Freedom, Volume 2.0” was released on 1.21.22.