Victoria calling on locals to become next poet laureate and youth poet laureate

Amidst the election taking place, the City of Victoria has put out a call to poets from across the capital region to apply to become the next poet laureate and youth poet laureate. 

The City says that each laureate position gives poets a platform to share their work and bring poetry into civic and community life through readings, events and creative projects.

The role of Victoria’s poet laureate is to serve as a literary and cultural ambassador for the city, to create original work, participate in City-run and community events and leading an annual project that engages residents in poetry and the literary arts.

Meanwhile, the role of the youth poet laureate is to offer emerging poets between the ages of 14 and 24 opportunities to hone their craft, share their voice and engage the community, all with mentorship from the poet laureate.

“Poetry connects people, sparks ideas and inspires conversation,” said Mayor Marianne Alto. 

“Victoria’s poet laureate and youth poet laureate bring fresh perspectives and creative expression into civic and community life.”

Both laureate positions last two years, running from January 2027 to December 2028. 

Victoria’s poet laureate will receive an annual honorarium of $5,500, while the youth poet laureate will receive $2,500. 

Additionally, each position is provided with up to $2,000 per year to help fund programming.

Applications will be open on the City’s website until November 19th at 11:59 p.m.

Those hoping to learn more about eligibility or apply can do so online here.