The NYC Youth Poet Laureate Program is where poetic excellence meets social impact.
We’re looking for young writers, leaders, and change-makers ready to use their voices to shake the system and write the next chapter of our country’s legacy.
Every fall, 10 NYC-based finalists, ages of 15-19, are chosen to step into a 5-week, in-person workshop series– a creative bootcamp to level up your writing, performance, and presence. It all leads to the big stage: a live commencement event where one standout voice will be named the next New York City Youth Poet Laureate.
The title-holder receives professional and creative mentorship, is given access to high-level performance opportunities, and becomes eligible to compete for state and national youth poet laureate titles.
THE APPLICATION WINDOW FOR THE 2025-2026 PROGRAM IS NOW CLOSED.