Celebrate National Poetry Month in April with
young voices
PROJECT
The
brought to you by E. Marie Enterprises
E. Marie Enterprises is proud to announce The Young Voices Project poetry contest in celebration of April National Poetry Month. This contest was created to uplift emerging voices, encourage original storytelling, and provide young artists with a platform to be heard, seen, and valued.
Poetry has always been a tool for expression, healing, advocacy, and change. Through this contest, we are investing in the power of young voices and creating opportunities for artists to share their stories in a live, supportive, and professional setting.
The Young Voices Project is an initiative of E. Marie Enterprises dedicated to supporting emerging artists through education, performance opportunities, and intentional creative programming. Our mission is to create spaces where stories matter, artists are paid, and culture is honored. We believe art is not extra. Art is essential. This contest reflects our commitment to community, creativity, and the next generation of storytellers.
Application and entry information:
Applications open February 21
Deadline to enter March 31
Entry fee is $10
Salt and Soil
Theme for 2026
Salt preserves. Soil sustains.
Both are African rooted metaphors.
Americans are trying to hold onto what matters while feeling uprooted.
This theme speaks to staying grounded while enduring pressure.
Eligibility:
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Open to ages 18–25
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All poets must submit original work
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Poems must be no longer than three minutes when performed
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All styles are welcome, including spoken word, page poetry, or a mix of both.
Prizes:
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First place receives $200
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Second place receives $100
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Third place receives $75
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Additional finalist prizes will be awarded
Contest Rules and Guidelines:
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All submissions must be original and created by the entrant.
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Previously published or performed work is allowed as long as the poet retains rights to the work.
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No hate speech, explicit language or violence, or harmful language will be accepted.
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Poems should be appropriate for a public, community centered audience.
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E. Marie Enterprises reserves the right to disqualify any entry that does not follow the guidelines.
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Judging will be based on originality, craft, voice, delivery, and overall impact.
Important dates:
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Applications open February 21
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Deadline to enter March 31
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Finalists announced April 11
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Live performance and prizes awarded April 24
Finalist requirements:
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All finalists must be available to perform live on April 24.
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Finalists who are unable to perform live will forfeit their placement.
Frequently asked questions:
Do I have to pay to enter?
Yes. There is a $10 entry fee which supports artist compensation, production costs, and prize funding.
Can I submit more than one poem?
Yes. Each entry requires a separate application and entry fee.
Do I have to perform live?
Only finalists are required to perform live on April 24.
How will finalists be notified?
Finalists will be contacted directly and announced publicly on April 11.
