Contest
Poetry Contest 2025 Winners Announcement Coming Soon!
We received an overwhelming number of incredible poems, and choosing the winners was truly a challenge!
A huge thank you to everyone who submitted their work, we are so inspired by your creativity.
Stay tuned as we reveal our top 3 winners very soon!
Glad You're Here!
This contest is a joint collaboration between Africentric Arts and the Cultural Youth Initiative Edmonton, celebrating creativity and resilience in honor of Black History Month.
Follow us on social media to stay connected and inspired, and join our newsletter for updates on this contest and future events!
2025 Poetry Contest Guidelines.
Welcome to the 2025 Poetry Contest in celebration of Black History Month! This year’s theme, "My Roots, My Strength," invites young individuals to reflect on their roots as Black people. Explore their backgrounds, cultures, and the personal resilience that shapes their lives, families, and communities.
Contest Details:
Theme: My Roots, My Strength
Who Can Enter: Must be ages 7-20
Submission Types:
Written Poetry: Write a poem in any style. (free verse, rhymes, haikus, or spoken word). Poems should have a clear structure, strong imagery, and emotional depth.
Visual Poetry: Combine art and poetry! Submit a poem with drawings, illustrations, or creative designs that bring your words to life. Ensure the art is neatly presented (canvas, high-quality paper, or digital).
Video Poetry: Record yourself performing or presenting your poem. Be as creative as you like—use spoken word, music, or dramatic expression to bring your poetry to life. Ensure clear audio and good lighting.
Original Work Only: Entries must be entirely your own creation.
Number of Entries: 1 per participant
Quality expectations:
1. Follow a clear format with consistent stanzas and flow.
2. Your piece should connect to the theme in a meaningful way.
3. Proofread written work, use quality materials for art, and ensure good audio/video for recordings.
Submission Deadline: February 23, 2025, at Midnight (MST).
How to Enter:
Create a piece of poetry inspired by the theme, "My Roots, My Strength."
Click the “Submit Your Entry” button below to access our submission form.
Fill out the form completely. (with all required details)
Upload your file in one of the accepted formats
Click submit to finalize your entry.
Prizes:
Cash prizes will be awarded in the following categories:
1st Place: $150
2nd Place: $100
3rd Place: $50
Winners will be announced on Tuesday, February 25, 2025, on our website and social media platforms. Winners will be contacted directly, and prizes will be sent via e-transfer on February 25, 2025.
Additional Information:
Winning entries may also be featured on our website and social media pages, and winners will have an opportunity to present their poems at our next event on March 1st.
For questions or more details, contact us at africentricarts.info@gmail.com or support@culturalyou.ca. We look forward to seeing young people gain the confidence to let their hearts speak of the strength and stories that shape them!
