Mustafa Ahmed, widely known as Mustafa the Poet, is a Sudanese-Canadian singer, poet, and activist hailing from Toronto’s Regent Park. Blending poetry, folk, and R&B, his work captures profound themes of grief, love, and resilience. First gaining recognition as a teenage poet, Mustafa transitioned to music, releasing the acclaimed When Smoke Rises in 2021—a heart-wrenching tribute to friends lost to violence that cemented his reputation as a unique voice in contemporary music. Known for his stripped-down acoustic sound and evocative storytelling, he continues to champion marginalized communities through his art. His sophomore album, Dunya (2024), explores mortality, spirituality, and healing, underscoring his ability to merge activism with artistry.
