Meet Paul D. Best
Meet Paul D. Best
Storyteller, Writer, Artist, and Cultural Memory Educator
Born and raised in Gary, Indiana, Paul D. Best is an “old soul” on a mission to share his passion for history, culture, and storytelling with anyone willing to listen and learn.
A Life Rooted in Story, Culture, and Memory
Through his work as a storyteller, writer, artist, educator, and cultural memory worker, Paul helps families and communities preserve the stories, traditions, and relationships that carry culture forward. His experience in youth development, education, and the visual and folk arts has forged a unique path, allowing him to impact communities through storytelling, photography, writing, and cultural education.
With youthful energy and a down-to-earth approach, Paul creates spaces where people of all ages can come together to explore the history of their people, honor the memories of their own lives, and preserve both for generations to come.
Where Paul’s Work Lives
Museum Education
Paul currently serves as a Museum Educator at the Penn Museum, where he helps visitors of all ages discover their connection to humans of the past and stay curious about the world around them.
Oral History
Paul previously served as Director of Oral History Projects at the Independence Seaport Museum, where he documented stories of Black people and women who did maritime and cultural work along the Delaware River, as well as communities affected by the construction of I-95.
Youth Storytelling
Paul is the founder and director of Black Boys Makin’ Noise, a storytelling troupe that nurtures the voices, creativity, and leadership of Black boys in Philadelphia.
“The entire world is a museum — a space filled with stories and wonder.”
PAUL D. BEST
Bring This Work to Your Community
Paul offers storytelling performances, workshops, speaking engagements, and heritage preservation services that help people reconnect with the stories that shape who they are.