Young poets can start brushing off their notebooks and get their favorite pieces ready for Long Beach’s 2025 Youth Poet Laureate Program.
Beginning on Sunday, Dec. 15, youth ages 13 to 18 can apply to “inspire positive change in their communities through the power of activism and poetry,” according to a press release from the City. Applications will close on Feb. 15, 2025.
“The Youth Poet Laureate program represents the spirit of creativity and activism that defines Long Beach,” said Mayor Rex Richardson in a public statement. “Through the power of their words, our young poets are shaping the future of our city one verse at a time. I’m incredibly proud to see our community continue to support programs like this, which empower our youth to lead and inspire others.”
The National Youth Poet Laureate program began in New York City in 2008, and now exists in over 70 communities across the nation. Long Beach’s program began in 2023, making this the third iteration. This year’s Youth Poet Laureate program is in collaboration with the Arts Council for Long Beach and supported by Urban Word NYC.
Youth who are interested in applying to be the 2025 Youth Poet Laureate should submit an application, a curriculum vitae highlighting their civic and social engagement in the community and a portfolio of five original poems. The Youth Poet Laureate website includes more details on how to apply, templates and submission guidelines. Those who have additional questions or want assistance with their submission can schedule a virtual office hour with LBPL staff Jessica Perez by emailing jessica.perez@longbeach.gov or calling (562) 570-5641.
Submissions will be evaluated by a panel of local poets and finalists will be notified via email once judging is completed in spring 2025. Finalists will be invited to participate in a public reading event in May 2025, where the next Youth Poet Laureate and Youth Poet Ambassadors will be announced.
“At the Long Beach Public Library, we believe in the transformative power of words,” said Director of Library Services Cathy De Leon in a public statement. “The Youth Poet Laureate program is a platform for artistic expression and a vehicle for young people to engage with their communities and spark meaningful change. We are thrilled to support this new generation of leaders as they use poetry to elevate their voices and create lasting impact.”
The selected Youth Poet Laureate will receive a $1,500 scholarship, while each Poet Ambassador will receive a $500 scholarship. In addition to financial awards, members of the YPL Cohort will receive mentorship from a local poet and access to various resources to help bring their community-focused projects to life.
The Youth Poet Laureate program includes support from Long Beach Public Library staff and facilities, literary arts workshops and partnerships with local literary and community organizations. By the end of the program year in April 2026, each cohort member will be given the opportunity to select and execute a service project that highlights artistic excellence, civic engagement and social impact, which are key components of the program.