Hi, I’m Simone Smith
*previously known as Simone Estridge
A Performance & Published Poet
I’ve been exploring stories and poetry for as long as I can remember, but in 2008 I decided to take the plunge and dedicate my time to writing with my studies in English with Creative Writing BA at Nottingham Trent University. While overcoming challenges due to struggles with dyslexia, I joined The Mouthy Poets collective in 2009 and attended the Arvon poetry retreat 2014. It was here I developed my own voice and re-ignited my love for words. Since then, I’ve been very fortunate to have had my work featured in a variety of publications, won several awards, commissions and performed on stage alongside some renowned poets including, Lemn Sissay, Akala, and John Agard. I am also one third of Hidden Notes, poetry and music trio, where I play to my distinct style of storytelling, bringing voice to a new narrative. To find out more about my work, please browse my site and get in touch if you have any questions or would like to discuss working together.
Untold
A Short Collection of Poems by Simone 'Word' Smith
Born and raised in Birmingham (UK), with a St.Kitts and Nevis Heritage, Simone's work in Untold is the product of a range of influences. This poetry collection in particular brings voice to those unheard and speaks despite the uncomfortable narrative.
Poetry Titles Include
Our Grandma, Bessie Coleman, Dyslexia, We were so annoyed, Dirty paws, Grounded coffee, ‘I cant breathe’, Olaudah Equiano, My unborn
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Publications
FIRE & DUST
SILHOUETTE PRESS (2015)
BLACK HISTORY MONTH POETRY & SHORT STORIES
UNIVERSITY OF BIRMINGHAM (2015 & 2016)
BOSC:REV 4
HESTERGLOCK PRESS (2015)
PENDLE WAR POETRY, SELECTED POEMS
POSH UP NORTH PUBLISHING (2013)
Commissions
Evenfields Careers, In Pursuit of Diversity (2021)
Bertz Associates, Women Between The Lines (2021)
The Roundhouse, Revealing the Reservoir (2021)
Elijah Phillips - Ladywood, Birmingham City Council (2021)
Dreaming Tower Ballroom (2020)
Soho House, We Don't Settle (2019)
National Memorial Arboretum (2015)
and many more...
Commissions
Live Performances
Written Poetry
Workshops
Weddings/Events
Ghost Writing
Copyright © Simone Word Smith
Hidden Notes
POETRY & ACOUSTIC MUSIC TRIO
Hidden Notes was born out of family jamming sessions, a trio with a true passion for combining live music with poetry. Ever since coming together in 2015, they have used their talents to give voice to untold stories. The trio have been privileged to share their love for this with a variety of audiences both nationally and internationally. Throughout the course of the group’s collaboration, not only have they won awards but most rewardingly they have won over the hearts of many. They create a distinct sound with influences from their Christian faith that truly moves people. Many individuals have been touched emotionally by their performances and brought to tears, others leave feeling educated, uplifted and empowered, all testament to the power of their work.
Check out the faces that make up Hidden Notes
Simone Smith
Poet
Sheleen Cocea
Guitarist & Singer
Nathanael Smith
Drummer
"A poet's work... to name the unnameable, to point at frauds, to take sides, start arguments, shape the world, and stop it from going to sleep." - Salman Rushdie
Poetry Portfolio...
