James Kass

WORK HISTORY

EDUCATION

SKILLS

ABOUT JAMES KASS

James Kass is a visionary leader, creative strategist, award-winning media creator, and cultural innovator dedicated to amplifying the voices that transform narratives. As the Founder of Youth Speaks, he pioneered the national youth poetry slam movement, creating platforms that empower young people to tell their stories and shape the world through spoken word. His work has influenced generations of artists, educators, and activists, driving a cultural shift toward youth-driven storytelling. Kass is currently the Executive Director of KALW Public Media in San Francisco, where he leads groundbreaking initiatives in public media, elevating underrepresented voices and reimagining community-centered journalism. His expertise in narrative strategies has positioned him as a sought-after thought leader, blending storytelling, education, and media to challenge conventional narratives and inspire action. As the Co-Executive Producer of HBO’s Brave New Voices, he helped bring the electrifying world of youth poetry to a global audience, showcasing the raw talent and powerful perspectives of young artists. He also curated the poets for the Obama Administration’s first White House Poetry Jam, an historic event that highlighted the power of art and culture to shape national discourse. In addition to his leadership roles, Kass has consulted with leading arts, media, and social impact organizations, including The Redford Center, The Apollo Theater, The Center for Cultural Power, and First Peoples Fund. His work with these organizations has furthered the intersection of storytelling, justice, and cultural power, ensuring that historically marginalized voices are at the forefront of transformative movements. Through his unwavering commitment to youth empowerment, media innovation, and cultural strategy, Kass continues to build spaces where storytelling fuels social change. Specialties: Fundraising, program and org design, strategic planning, nonprofit management and executive leadership, educational and program design. Proficient in the in\'s and outs of nonprofits, performing arts, production, youth development, marketing, educational and social impact.