Urban Word Core Programs

For inquiries about our programs, email info@urbanwordnyc.org

Journal 2 Journey

Journal 2 Journey is a pre-professional, creative youth development program designed to expose young artists to the world of devised theater. Ten youth participants (ages 16-20) are selected to join a paid 15-week intensive, where they collaborate with professional theater artists to refine their writing and devise an original, one-act production.

We will begin accepting applications for this year’s program in November 2026.

NYC Youth Poet Laureate Program

10 of NYC’s boldest young poets earn a spot in a paid, five-week creative bootcamp, culminating in a live showcase where one standout voice will be crowned the 2027 NYC Youth Poet Laureate.

The 2026 program application window is now closed.

College Council

College Council is designed to engage college-age students (20-25 years old) and leverage the creativity and professional aspirations of this often overlooked demographic. The collective consists of youth who’ve demonstrated excellence in poetry and creative arts within Urban Word programming. Participants learn how to amplify their personal brands and promote their own projects, as well as serve as a youth-led media team, connecting their work to Urban Word’s overall mission.

[UNTITLED] Masterclass @ The Guggenheim

The Guggenheim Museum, an 87 year old cultural landmark, opens its galleries to the Urban Word community for this innovative masterclass series where poetry and visual art converge. Throughout this series, young writers are invited to view the museum’s current exhibits and collections to find poetic inspiration, while learning the fine art of ekphrastic poetry under the tutelage of an esteemed facilitator.

First Draft Open Mic

First Draft is a free open mic series, providing a safe space for artistic expression, experimentation and development across all genres. This uncensored poetry reading provides a platform for teen poets, spoken word artists, emcees, activists and scholars to share their powerful and important voices. Each event is curated by Urban Word youth and open to teens ages 14-21.