Monica Atkins is a Chicago native and graduate of Jackson State University where she completed a Bachelor's degree in English with an emphasis in Journalism. A poet, activist, and member of Cooperation Jackson in Jackson, MS, Atkins has shown leadership in engaging public service workers around just transition, civil, human, and workers rights.

For the past 10 years, Atkins has organized social, cultural events and actions including Art, Poetry, and Justice Slam, Freedom Summer March, and March on Mississippi. Surreal has opened shows for Nikki Giovianni, Spike Lee, and performed for artist such as Common and David Banner. Atkins is a founding member and Cultural Program Coordinator of Deep Seedz Artist Collective and is working to support youth and young artist who seek to transform their community with their art.