Billy “Issim” Ramsey is a multiplatform artist, entrepreneur and activist that utilizes arts experiences to catalyze and unify "the village". African-rooted step, acting, directing, hosting/MC, spoken word performance, workshop development and implementation, radio production, vocal and instrumental performer are the several roles Ramsey plays.

Billy is the co-founder and artistic director of Arizona Talking Drum Performance Studio Network, co-founder and artistic director for BlackPoet Ventures, LLC. He holds a Bachelors of Communications/Public Relations from University of Michigan-Dearborn and a lifelong learner in the art of life. He is the owner of newly founded B Spoke Consults, a creative consultation company.

Issim was introduced to early performance opportunities beginning at the age of 10 as a drummer for Phoenix based gospel group The Mighty Voices of Wonder and continued to find spaces for opportunities that have stretched over three decades. HIs ability to segue between local artist and international acts and individuals has blessed him to share stages and spaces with Stevie Wonder, Erika Badu, Musiq Soulchild, Rodney”Darkchild” Jerkins, Father MC, Sistah Souljah, Daniel Bernard Romain, Taalam Acey, LL Cool J, Rosa Parks, Barbara Morrison, Marcus Belgrave, Myron Glasper and others

The art of village building and people bridging has been one of the most unique and rewarding experiences fostering the intention of service to communities and families, including his own 12 children, many of whom are also practitioners and lovers of the arts.

He has worked with organizations such as YMCA, Boys & Girls Clubs of America, Phoenix Union High School District, State of Arizona, Maricopa Youth Advocacy Program, City of Phoenix, City of Glendale, Los Feliz Charter School for the Arts, AZ MLK Organizing Committee and a list of others.

Billy came to the Fathers and Families Coalition of America in the midst of life trials as the father in need of resources, networks and guidance. He found his way into the work shortly after his introduction as a facilitator, consultant and art maker, bringing awareness to topic matter by involving participants in scripting and producing original theatrical productions where they learned new skill sets of acting and production as well as new ways of expression and creation. Beyond doing, they found their sacred space to share and BE.

He has returned to FFCA Conferences over the years as a presenter, facilitator, artist and attendee.

Most recent works are in the area of Trauma Informed Practices, where he and cohorts have developed and utilized CELEBRATION CIRCLES, to inform participants of all ages about the triggers and onsets of trauma, the biological effects and signs, but most importantly building communities of awareness and resilience.