Benard Carson is a storyteller and a member of the North Carolina
Storytellers Association (NCTA). Storytelling has always been more than
entertainment to him. He considers it one of humanity’s oldest technologies — a
vessel for memory, identity, wisdom, and hope. Across Africa, among African
Americans, and throughout cultures around the world, storytelling has served as
a bridge between generations and a guide for communities seeking meaning, strength,
and connection. For more than 30 years, storytelling has played a major role in
my life—my way of honoring our ancestors, uplifting our communities, and
preserving the wisdom, humor, and resilience of the African diaspora. My
expertise is rooted in decades of community engagement, cultural programming,
and storytelling across diverse audiences. I enjoy working with elders,
veterans, youth, and community groups, always with a focus on connection,
dignity, and shared humanity. I am at my best when I am working with
people—listening, encouraging, organizing, and helping others find their voice.
I lead storytelling workshops and
performances to respond to fundamental questions about African and African
American identity and culture.