Today we’d like to introduce you to Eboni Johnson.
Eboni, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I am Eboni Jenelle, a Chicago native, author, educator, and creative storyteller whose work transforms personal grief into powerful artistic expression. After losing my mother on the last day of high school, I channeled my experience into visual art and poetry, ultimately self-publishing her debut collection From a Cocoon to a Butterfly in 2021. In February 2026, I released a newly revamped edition, now available on major platforms including Amazon and Barnes & Noble.
I am currently bringing her poetry to life through her original web series, From a Cocoon to a Butterfly, where she narrates her work and shares the deeply personal stories behind each piece. Alongside my creative pursuits, I serve as the Social Media Director at Bella Vista College Prep in Phoenix, Arizona and works as an English and Creative Writing teacher, inspiring the next generation of writers.
I will host my first book signing on May 15 at Columbia College Chicago, her alma mater, with a mission to uplift and empower young women—especially those navigating the loss of a parent—to pursue their dreams unapologetically.
In addition to my literary and educational work, I am also a model and brand collaborator, partnering with companies such as SHEIN, Black Girl Vitamins, and MeUndies.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
After the unexpected passing of my mother on the last day of high school, I faced a period of grief that impacted my passion for acting. Though I continued to audition and signed with multiple agents over the years, I found myself navigating depression while working to rediscover my direction.
My academic path was equally challenging and transformative. I began my college career at Xavier University of Louisiana before transferring to Georgia State University. After experiencing health complications, including an emergency appendectomy, I returned to Chicago, where I balanced two jobs—working at Columbia College Chicago and serving as a caretaker for my grandmother—while completing my degree.
I graduated with honors, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Communications with a minor in Talent Management, and was inducted into the National Society of Collegiate Scholars.
Alongside academic and professional achievements, I have remained active in the entertainment industry. I have appeared on the set of The Chi and have covered major cultural events, including a Chris Brown afterparty in Chicago. I have also collaborated with Jon B. on promotional work and attended BET Awards weekend as an influencer, where I filmed the taping of 106 & Park alongside personalities like Druski and Bow Wow.
Through every high and low, I have chosen to focus on growth, using my experiences to fuel my creativity, career, and commitment to inspiring others.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
Eboni Jenelle, also known as “Jenelle the poet,” is a multidimensional artist, author, and storyteller who refuses to be confined to one lane. As the creator of From A Cocoon to a Butterfly, a web series inspired by my poetry book of the same name, I blend spoken word, film, and personal narrative to bring my life experiences to the screen. Influenced by films like Poetic Justice, ATL and Love Jones, my work captures the beauty, pain, and transformation of real life through a poetic lens.
Whether I am behind the camera, in front of it, or writing the story, I move with intention as a content creator, actress, and community leader—using every platform I touch to inspire and empower others.
How can people work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
Email [email protected] or reach out via instagram @jenelletheepoet_.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://jenelletheecreative.my.canva.site/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jenelletheepoet_/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eboni-johnson-393567130/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@jenelletheepoet-u8r
- Other: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0GQ7F889V
