We are now accepting applications for the 2023 Youth Poet Laureates of Arlington, Virginia, Washington D.C., and Maryland.

The Youth Poet Laureate Winner is awarded the following opportunities

+Perform on tour at all Busboys and Poets locations and various D.C. Public Libraries

+Perform at the Library of Congress and Planet Word during National Poetry Month in April 2023

+Serve on the Youth Advisory Board for the John F. Kennedy Center

+Publish an original book through Words Beats & Life Inc. upon program completion

Interested in applying? Please read the important information below.

+ All applicants must be between the ages of 13-19 years old and be current residents of the jurisdiction applied for.

+The application deadline is November 30th, 2022.

+If you are under the age of 18, we highly recommend filling out your application with your parents or guardians.

What to have ready when filling out your application?

+Five original poems in separate documents (pdf., word, or google docs format is acceptable)

+One performance video (optional but recommended)

+Your Resume with the following information included if applicable

+Interests

+Accomplishments

+Community service

+Volunteer experience

+Extracurricular activities

+Church Involvement

+Awards received

What to expect after submitting your application

+ An extensive interview process.

+The top-scoring finalists from the interview process will go on to perform.

+The poet with the highest score will be named Youth Poet Laureate.

+The Remaining finalists are named the Youth Poet Ambassador of their area and receive performance opportunities as part of our Academy.

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