Public Service Announcement
Municipality announces 2025 Youth Poet Laureate
Thursday, Jan. 30, 2025 (Halifax, N.S.) – The Halifax Regional Municipality is pleased to announce that Asha Abdosh has been selected as the next Youth Poet Laureate. Asha’s one-year term will run from January to December 2025.

Asha Abdosh is an 18-year-old writer and poet with Ethiopian roots. Since migrating to the region, her identity and lived experience have provided a unique and multifaceted perspective on the world around her. She has committed her years to uplifting marginalized voices and inspiring meaningful dialogue within local schools by participating in councils and leading student associations.

“Congratulations to Asha Abdosh, the 2025 Youth Poet Laureate,” says Mayor Andy Fillmore. “By providing this platform of artistic expression for youth, the municipality is recognizing their voices in a way for everyone to enjoy and learn. I look forward to Ms. Abdosh’s work and how her words will capture the richness of our many communities.”

The Youth Poet Laureate serves as a literary ambassador for youth in the region. During their tenure, the Laureate will seek to inspire and engage local youth by sharing their stories through written and spoken word.

The Youth Poet Laureate will participate in the Afterword’s Literary Festival Youth Mentorship Program and work alongside current Poet Laureate, Anna Quon.