Storyteller Wins National Award for Amplifying Women's Voices

Jessica Robinson stood on stage in Texas this year, accepting the National Storytelling Network's ORACLE Award for Distinguished National Service. The recognition honored her nearly two decades of work giving underrepresented voices a platform through the ancient art of storytelling.

Robinson founded Better Said Than Done and created the Women's Storytelling Festival to address a glaring gap. Women remain historically underrepresented at major storytelling festivals nationwide, and she set out to balance the scales.

The festival has become a transformative experience for attendees and performers alike. Over four days each year, more than 16 hours of stories weave together the full spectrum of female experience, from lighthearted tales to profound memories that bridge generational and cultural divides.

Robinson started her own storytelling journey in 2007 at what is now Story District in Washington, DC. She's since performed at the prestigious Jonesborough National Storytelling Festival and compiled 25 of her personal stories into a book.

The award came as a complete surprise. Rishi Nixon, the outgoing president of the National Storytelling Network, nominated her for creating national platforms that align with the network's commitment to diversity and inclusion in the arts.

Sunny's Take

What makes this story special isn't just the award. It's the ripple effect of what happens when someone decides everyone deserves to be heard. Attendees describe leaving the Women's Storytelling Festival feeling "profoundly peaceful and connected" after hearing raw, intimate tales from remarkable storytellers.

Robinson and her seven-person board review applications using a blind scoring system to ensure fairness. They're not just putting on shows; they're actively working to change who gets a microphone on the national stage.

The National Storytelling Network's emphasis on diversity, equity, and inclusion made the honor even more meaningful. As Robinson put it, receiving recognition from people strongly committed to the same values felt validating in a time when many arts organizations are stepping back from those commitments.

Better Said Than Done continues to host events throughout the year, creating spaces where storytelling cultivates empathy and reminds us of our shared humanity. Robinson's two decades of dedication prove that one person's commitment to amplifying others can create waves of connection that transform entire communities.