Halifax names Asha Abdosh as Youth Poet Laureate for 2025

Asha Abdosh, an 18-year-old writer, is the new Youth Poet Laureate for the Halifax Regional Municipality.

Abdosh will serve in the role from January to December, according to a news release from the municipality.

“Since migrating to Halifax, (Abdosh’s) identity and lived experience have provided a unique and multifaceted perspective on the world around her,” the release reads. “A lens that made it clear that she must dedicate her life to fostering a society where liberation is no longer a fantasy but a reality for all. She has committed her years to uplifting marginalized voices and inspiring meaningful dialogue within local schools by participating in councils and leading student associations.

“For Asha, poetry is more than an art form, it became a sanctuary, a medium of boundless expression and a means of building a bridge between personal and collective experiences.”

Asiah Sparks and Damini Awoyiga served as the previous Youth Poet Laureates for the municipality. Anna Quon is the current Poet Laureate for Halifax.

The Poet Laureate programs seek to advocate for and celebrate the written and spoken word.

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