Kayla Dudley, also known as KayTheePoet, is a poet, teaching artist, creative organizer, and founder of healotry, an initiative focused on healing through poetry, creative expression, and community. Kayla has been writing poetry since the age of 11, using her work to explore identity, belonging, love, healing, and the lived experiences of Black women and queer communities. She is a current mentee and also works with Girls Write Now, contributing to the organization’s mission of empowering young women and gender-expansive youth through writing, mentorship, and creative community. Her experience on both sides of the program has deepened her commitment to creating spaces where young people can develop their voices, build confidence, and recognize the power of their stories. Kayla holds a B.A. in Political Science with a minor in Africana Studies from John Jay College of Criminal Justice. She is currently pursuing an MFA in Creative Writing at The New School. Through poetry, education, and community organizing, she continues to use creativity as a tool for connection, empowerment, and healing.
