Are you a creative, engaged student who is passionate about writing, reading, performing, and experiencing poetry? Are you equally passionate about working with your peers and other students to bring more poetry to Philadelphia? If so, apply to become the 2023-2024 Youth Poet Laureate!

The Youth Poet Laureate of Philadelphia serves as a leader in our city’s young artistic community. In the position, you will grow as a writer through mentorship with Philadelphia’s Poet Laureate, Airea D. Matthews. You will act as an advocate for poetry’s important subjects, like social justice, equity, well-being, and joy. You will create meaningful community projects and take part in impactful events around Philadelphia, and you’ll have a unique platform to promote poetry like no one else.

Here are some tips for applying from the 2020-2021 Youth Poet Laureate, Cydney Brown:

Want to hear from more former Youth Poets Laureate? Check out our 2022 panel where Mia Concepcion, Wes Matthews, Husnaa Hashim, and Cydney Brown discuss their experiences in the role and provide tips for applying:

Applications are being accepted now, and we want to read yours!

Questions to consider and actions to take as you prepare to apply:   

• What does poetry mean to you? How will you further the role of literature, the arts, and community engagement through the written and spoken word? 
• How will you take on the challenging and exciting role as an advocate for writing and creativity in your neighborhood, school, and city?
• Gather examples of your amazing work.

Visit the Poet Laureate page on our website to learn more about the program and past Youth Poets Laureate.

Applications are being accepted now through Friday, June 9 at 12 p.m.

Learn more about the Poet Laureate program on the Free Library's website.