Applications
April 1 - 30, 2026
Amplifying Young Voices
The Monterey County Youth Poet Laureate program, presented by the Arts Council for Monterey County (Arts4MC) in partnership with Urban Word—creators of the National Youth Poet Laureate movement—celebrates and elevates the voices of emerging young poets. This program highlights the power of poetry as a tool for artistic excellence, civic engagement, and social change.
The Youth Poet Laureate serves as an ambassador for poetry, social action, and the arts. This prestigious position, officially recognized by the Monterey County Board of Supervisors, combines the art of poetry with a commitment to leadership and community impact. Throughout a one-year term, the Youth Poet Laureate collaborates with the Monterey County Poet Laureate, shares ideas, creates community-centered projects, and brings poetry to life through readings, workshops, and events.
For more information, contact ReNae Jackson, Arts Education Manager at 831-622-9060 x109 or via email at [email protected]
Calling All High School Poets!
If you’re ready to step into the spotlight, this could be your chance! We’re looking for creativity, leadership, and a passion for making a difference! Stay tuned here for more information on the upcoming application period.
- Application Period: April 1 - 30 2026
- Commencement Ceremony: TBC
- What You’ll Need to Apply: Submit five (5) original poems, resume, statement of civic engagement, and a statement of social justice.
Don’t miss your chance to share your voice and inspire your peers through poetry!
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Currently reside in Monterey County
- Must live in Monterey County during the entire 2026/2027 Youth Poet Laureate term
- Be between the ages of 13-19 years old at time of submission
- Submit five (5) original poems
- Complete the application, submit a resume, statement of civic engagement, and statement of social justice activities.
- Be available to serve as Monterey County Youth Poet Laureate for the one-year term, July 2026 – June 2027
Applications
April 1 - 30, 2026
Application Checklist
- Completed application
- Upload one (1) PDF document that includes five (5) original poems, resume (to include any work experience, activities, awards, and public/civic service), statement of civic engagement (any opportunity to promote quality of life in the community) and, statement of social justice (any opportunity to use your voice to promote equity and inclusiveness in your community).
- Participant Agreement— Fillable PDF ENGLISH or SPANISH (recommend completing via web browser)—The agreement must be signed and dated by both the applicant and parent/guardian (if the applicant is under the age of 18).
2025-2026 Monterey County Youth Poet Laureate
Mya Pop
After a competitive selection process, the Arts Council for Monterey County (Arts4MC) is thrilled to announce Mya Pop as the 2025/2026 Monterey County Youth Poet Laureate (YPL). Starting on May 1, 2025, Mya will serve a one-year term where she will participate in various county events promoting poetry and literacy and receive an honorarium of $1,000.
Additional recognitions include runner-up Connor O’Brien, a junior at Pacific Grove High School.
The community is invited to celebrate Mya’s appointment through two special events on Tuesday, April 29th:
- Board of Supervisors Recognition: Join us at the County Government Center (168 W. Alisal, Salinas) at 10 AM, as Mya receives an official resolution honoring her new role.
- Commencement Ceremony: At 5:30 PM, attend a special ceremony at the Marina Library Community Room, located at 190 Seaside Cir. in Marina, featuring performances by Mya and three other exceptional youth poets.
Watch the 2025/2026 Monterey County Youth Poet Laureate Commencement Ceremony
Previous Monterey County Youth Poet Laureate
Maram Haddad
2024/2025 Monterey County Youth Poet Laureate
We are excited to celebrate Maram Haddad, the outgoing Monterey County Youth Poet Laureate! During her wonderful year in this role, Maram made a big impact by presenting at awesome events like the Champions of the Arts Breakfast, the Robinson Jeffers Fall Festival, and Poetry Out Loud. She also took the time to share her poetry writing tips with her peers at a Virtual Poetry Meet-up. Thank you, Maram, for everything you’ve done this year. Congratulations on a job well done!