A few months ago, Kennita Hickman had never heard of Ex Fabula, a Milwaukee-based storytelling organization committed to strengthening communities. However, numerous friends saw a posting for an event producer with the group and recommended to Hickman that she apply based on her background in radio, band management and writing.

"Once I started researching Ex Fabula, I was absolutely consumed with the concept of storytelling and the organization," says Hickman. "I couldn’t believe I wasn't already a part of it."

Hickman applied for the job, skeptical that she’d even get an interview, but found out on her birthday in June that – after numerous interviews – she had landed the position. "I was thrilled," she says.

As the event producer, which is only the second full-time non-seasonal job with Ex Fabula (executive director Megan McGee holds the other), Hickman will coordinate the monthly storytelling slams – season nine starts next month – along with other workshops, the fellows program and community partnerships. McGee is currently on maternity leave so Hickman is also taking on various duties in her absence.

"I couldn’t ask for a more generous, more understanding boss," says Hickman. "And I am so impressed by the number of volunteers – and their level of commitment. It's such a testament to Ex Fabula's mission."

Hickman graduated from Rufus King High School, studied communications at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, served as the vice-president of the Wisconsin Area Music Industry (WAMI) Awards and interned at numerous radio stations including V100.7, 103.7 KISS FM and WNOV 860.

When she’s not working, Hickman enjoys watching documentaries and studying veganism, a diet and lifestyle she plans to embrace in the near future. She also likes to take photos –particularly of hair styles– and post them on social media.

"My hair is natural and through my natural hair journey people are always wondering how I style it or what products I use," she says.

Although Hickman has never told a story on stage at a storytelling event before, she says she will consider sharing one this season. However, she believes story listening is equally as important as storytelling.

"I’ll probably eventually be drawn to the stage, but I’m also really excited to listen and listen," says Hickman.

On Thursday, Sept. 7, Ex Fabula presents a curated storytelling slam "Power, Dissent, and Youth Empowerment" at 6:15 p.m. at the Milwaukee Art Museum. The event is free.