<p>Dr. Che “Rhymefest” Smith is a multi-Grammy and Academy Award–winning artist, civic leader, cultural strategist, and global humanitarian whose work bridges culture, education, governance, and community transformation. </p><p>In 2024, he was elected to the Chicago Public Schools Board of Education, helping govern a $9 billion district and shape policy impacting more than 320,000 students, bringing an artist’s creativity, a storyteller’s insight, and a policymaker’s vision to education and civic leadership.</p><p>A pioneering voice in hip-hop for more than two decades, Che co-wrote the Grammy-winning breakout hit <em>Jesus Walks </em>with Kanye West and the Oscar- and Grammy-winning song <em>Glory</em> with Common and John Legend from the film<em> Selma.</em> His artistry reflects both creative excellence and deep cultural commentary. Che leads conversations about cultural intelligence, narrative power, leadership responsibility, and community-centered innovation, bringing practical frameworks that resonate across universities, corporations, civic institutions, and cultural convenings.</p>
Award-Winning Hip-Hop Artist, Humanitarian & Subject of the Documentary Film, <em>In My Father's House</em>
<ul><li><strong>Culture as Currency: Leadership, Identity & Creativity</strong></li><li> How culture, story, and creativity shape the way we lead, learn, and live — from artistry to the school board.</li><li><strong>Brave Governance: Transparency, Communal Fluency & Belonging</strong></li><li> A candid look at what it takes to engage communities where people feel informed, respected and heard.</li><li><strong>From HipHop to the School Board</strong></li><li>Che traces his journey from hip-hop and community organizing to local politics and school board leadership — and what students can learn from both worlds.</li><li><strong>The Power of Story: Finding Your Voice</strong></li><li> A talk or workshop helping turn lived experiences into stories that heal, persuade, and inspire.</li><li><strong>Leadership Through Crisis: Lessons from Community & Civic Life</strong></li><li>Insights from the front lines of education, advocacy, and public service on leading with clarity, courage, and compassion.</li></ul>