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Danielle Blocker • October 20, 2021
2021 YPP Fellow: Shelemiah Griffiths
Welcome YPP Fellow Shelemiah for Police-Free Schools team!
Shelemiah Griffiths-Johnson is a Talented and Gifted scholar who is currently in the 9th grade.
He currently serves as the Chairman for the Inaugural Bowie Youth Council, Parliamentarian for
the Prince George's Regional Association of Student Governments, and The Youth Member of
the Interfaith Coalition of Bowie. He was the 2021 NJHS Parliamentarian in middle school,
District 5 Student Leadership Council Member. He is a Varsity Division Debater with the
Washington Urban Debate League. He hosts his own television show, “The Shelemiah Show” on
Comcast 77 and Verizon 11 daily at 7 P.M. Shelemiah has won many awards such as 1st place in
the County National History Day, 1st- place 2020, and 3rd Place 2021 Dr. Martin Luther King
Video contest. He has been recognized by Maryland Lt. Governor Boyd Rutherford for his
participation in the BIZ Kids Entrepreneurial program.
He is an inspirational speaker and teen activist who is a voice for his generation in the
community. He speaks against injustices and advocates against bullying. He has shared the stage
with city officials and elected leaders to speak against police brutality. Shelemiah takes time out
to support marches to evoke change in education and against racial injustices. In his spare time,
he enjoys playing video games. He also loves competitive swimming, art, cooking healthy meals,
and traveling. Shelemiah aspires to be a Chemical Engineer, but says that may change as his love
for Tech is growing.
At heart, Shelemiah loves serving his community. His philanthropic works include feeding the
homeless, working with his Destination Imagination team to fill the local food pantry, kind acts
for children with cancer at Children's hospital, and sharing his love for STEM by teaching
students in the community. His most memorable act of service was to fly to Puerto Rico to help
the homeless and volunteer at an all-boys shelter. He is dedicated to using his voice as a catalyst
of change, via speaking at marches and sitting on panels that address issues for students who are
marginalized and face numerous challenges, especially those of color. Shelemiah enjoys doing
things that bring all communities together.
