Uplifting borderland stories through poetry and performance

Welcome to the official home of Amanda Puryear El—TEDx speaker, author, and the historic first Poet Laureate of Pharr, Texas. Explore her powerful spoken-word performances, literary works, and community arts initiatives.

Amanda Puryear El is a proud Rio Grande Valley native, celebrated author, and dynamic spoken‑word poet whose work uplifts borderland stories and empowers at‑risk youth. The author of ten books—including her award‑winning The Legend of La Chancla—she dedicates her life to writing, teaching, and community arts advocacy. In October 2024, she took the TEDx stage, delivering a performance that amplified her voice beyond South Texas. The following year, she was nominated by the Texas Arts Commission for State Poet Laureate, and on October 6, 2025, she made history as the first Poet Laureate of her hometown, Pharr, Texas.On August 14, 2026, she released a spoken‑word poetry album featuring Rio Grande Valley Grammy Tejano winner Bobby Pulido, Grammy‑nominated Ecuadorian producer Antonio Vergara, Rio Grande Valley poets Paola Carrasco, Yelitza Saenz, Crischelle Navalta Barnes, Ronnie Palacios, Tiffany "Queen T" Lozano, Edward Vidaurre, Daniel "Poet Mariachi"Garcia, Lamar Jones, Emmy Perez, Max Tyrone Lozano, Grammy contributing artist Slum City Cash, Orlando, Fl native Elsha, and Brooklyn, Ny artist Louie Skaggs further cementing her place as one of the region’s most influential spoken word poets.

Creative work and impact

Discover how Amanda Puryear El uses the power of the written and spoken word to inspire youth and champion South Texas culture.

Spoken-word poetry album

Experience her groundbreaking album featuring Rio Grande Valley Grammy winner Bobby Pulido and Grammy-nominated producer Antonio Vergara.

Explore the album

A voice rooted in the Rio Grande Valley

Nominated for Texas State Poet Laureate and named the first Poet Laureate of Pharr, Texas on October 6, 2025, Amanda Puryear El has dedicated her career to literary excellence and youth empowerment. Her work reflects the resilience, humor, and anxiety of borderland communities.

Artistry meets community advocacy

From the TEDx stage in October 2024 to collaborative musical releases, Amanda continues to push the boundaries of spoken word while staying deeply connected to her roots in Pharr, Texas.

"Amanda's voice brings the rich history and spirit of the borderlands to life in a way that resonates with audience members of every generation."

— Texas Arts Review

"Her spoken-word performances are electric, moving, and unforgettable. A true champion for our local culture and youth."

— Rio Grande Valley Cultural Arts Advocate

"The historic naming of Amanda as Poet Laureate celebrates a career spent enriching our community through words and action."

— City of Pharr Cultural Committee

Experience the latest spoken-word release

Listen to the new album featuring Bobby Pulido and Antonio Vergara, celebrating the vibrant sounds and stories of South Texas.

Listen now

Get in touch

Pharr, Texas

Amanda Puryear El
Pharr, Texas, United States
Email: [[email]]
Phone: [[phonenumber]]