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News Release - Shahaddah Jack recommended as the City of Toronto’s first Youth Poet Laureate

City of Toronto Media Relations has issued the following:
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News Release

September 18, 2024

Shahaddah Jack recommended as the City of Toronto’s first Youth Poet Laureate

Today, the Economic and Community Development Committee recommended Shahaddah Jack as the City of Toronto’s inaugural Youth Poet Laureate, pending approval by City Council at its October meeting. This groundbreaking role will position Jack as a literary ambassador for Toronto’s youth, empowering young voices through poetry and spoken word.

Her term will begin on October 15 and run until December 31, 2026.

The Youth Poet Laureate Program was launched in November 2023 at the recommendation of the Toronto Youth Cabinet (TYC) to mark its 25th anniversary. The Program aims to uplift young writers and foster greater involvement of youth in literary arts, encouraging them to share their stories and perspectives.

Jack, a 20-year-old bilingual spoken word poet, performer and human rights activist from Tkaronto, is making waves with her impactful work. Known for addressing human rights, the Black experience and the complexities of adolescence in her work, she has performed at over 100 events.

A graduate of the Remix Project, Jack was named BGC Canada’s National Youth of the Year in 2022 and was recognized by Streets of Toronto as one of the most inspirational women of the year. She recently published her debut book, Underrated Royalty, and released her debut single, My Mother’s Daughter.

As Toronto's first Youth Poet Laureate, Jack will collaborate with the City’s Poet Laureate, Lillian Allen, to engage youth in poetry, participate in civic events and create art that reflects the voices and experiences of Toronto's young people. Her role will elevate youth voices and advocate for greater inclusion in municipal governance.

More information about the Youth Poet Laureate program is available online at www.toronto.ca/explore-enjoy/history-art-culture/youth-poet-laureate/

More information about Youth Poet Laureate Shahaddah Jack and her projects can be found here: www.shahaddahjack.com/

Quotes

"The appointment of Shahaddah Jack as Toronto's first Youth Poet Laureate is a significant step in amplifying youth voices across the city, and in recognizing the exceptional talents of youth in our city. Her work embodies the diverse experiences of our young people and I look forward to seeing her inspire others to embrace the power of poetry and spoken word. "
– Mayor Olivia Chow

"The Youth Poet Laureate program highlights Toronto’s commitment to fostering and supporting excellence in the arts. Shahaddah's passion for human rights and community engagement, along with her artistic talent, will not only inspire her peers but elevate the role of young voices in civic life."
– Councillor Alejandra Bravo (Davenport), Chair of the Economic and Community Development Committee

"We are thrilled to see this program come to life for our 25th anniversary. Shahaddah Jack is the perfect ambassador for youth poetry in Toronto and we look forward to working with her to champion the perspectives and creativity of young people throughout the city."
– Stephen Mensah, Executive Director, Toronto Youth Cabinet

"I am deeply honored to serve as Toronto’s first Youth Poet Laureate. Poetry has always been my way of sharing stories that reflect the struggles and joys of young people, especially those from equity deserving communities. I hope to inspire others to use their voices for change and I look forward to working with the City and community organizations to amplify youth voices through the arts."
– Shahaddah Jack, Youth Poet Laureate

Toronto is home to more than three million people whose diversity and experiences make this great city Canada’s leading economic engine and one of the world’s most diverse and livable cities. As the fourth largest city in North America, Toronto is a global leader in technology, finance, film, music, culture, innovation, and climate action, and consistently places at the top of international rankings due to investments championed by its government, residents, and businesses. For more information visit www.toronto.ca or follow us on X at x.com/cityoftoronto, on Instagram at www.instagram.com/cityofto or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/cityofto.

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Media contact: Media Relations, media@toronto.ca

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