I am Brown Suga, known off-stage as Jessica Raquel. My journey as a creative force is rooted in the profound belief that words possess the power to heal, unite, and educate. Throughout my career, I've wielded this power to amplify marginalized voices and foster a sense of community through the arts. My work has been celebrated in various esteemed projects, including the "Speak Up Poetry Series" Seasons 1 and 2, "Poetry Aint Dead," "Black is Tech," "Blackgirlsluvthebard" (a Shakespearean company), and "Brave New Voices." My contributions to the literary world are encapsulated in three published books: "Orange Painted Red" (2019), which was notably incorporated into the Florida A&M University (FAMU) 2019 curriculum, "Per Chi" (2025), and "Uprooted" (2026).
My early life was marked by an innate passion for storytelling, which I began exploring as early as eight years old when I started designing "book covers." By age eleven, I was crafting poetry, documenting my personal journey and the stories of those marginalized through poetry, performance art, and creative writing. Storytelling is a part of my heritage, deeply embedded in my family and roots. As a youth, I was actively involved in "Brave New Voices," participating as a member of Heard Em Say Youth Arts in Tampa, FL. These experiences nurtured my storytelling skills and laid the foundation for my career in the arts.
I am a proud graduate of Florida A&M University, class of 2018, where I was also a member of the Theta Nu Chapter of Sigma Alpha Iota. My academic journey at FAMU was instrumental in shaping my artistic endeavors. I began my career on the humble stages of the Hillsborough County Poetry Jam and honed my skills by writing poems to pass my high school theatre exams. My dedication to the craft earned me a scholarship to the Essential Theatre Program at FAMU, where I further developed my artistic voice and vision.
My discography includes "Orange Painted Red" (2019), "Per Chi" (2025), and "Uprooted" (2026). "Orange Painted Red" was a significant milestone in my career, as it was incorporated into the curriculum at FAMU in 2019, a testament to its impact and relevance. Each work reflects my commitment to exploring complex themes and giving voice to the stories that often go unheard.
My career achievements have been recognized with several awards and honors. I was a Featured Author at Tampa Bay's Black Author Expo in 2026, a Featured Poet in Black is Tech in 2024, and received the Outstanding Alumni Award from the Heard Em Say Youth Arts Collective in 2020. In addition, my work was featured at the ICTF - Fringe Festival in 2018 for "From the Mississippi Delta." These accolades underscore my dedication to using art as a means of advocacy and my relentless pursuit of excellence in my craft.
Beyond my artistic pursuits, I am a documentary storyteller and poetic artist deeply committed to advocacy for cultural, social, and political rights. I believe in the intersectionality of art and activism, using my platform to shed light on issues affecting marginalized communities. Recently, I have ventured into the field of pharmacology, discovering a new space where STEM, health, and art converge. This exploration serves to expand my understanding of the world and enhance my ability to create art that resonates with and uplifts diverse audiences.
My life's work is a testament to the power of storytelling and the transformative potential of art. As Brown Suga, I strive to create a lasting impact through my words, inspiring others to embrace their stories and work towards a more inclusive and equitable society.