The Youth Poetry Slam at Xenion High School provided a remarkable platform for students to showcase their talents and find their voice on January 22, 2026. This event brought together aspiring poets from Xenion High School, the Heritage Private School Limassol, and the American Academy Larnaca, creating a collaborative environment where creativity flourished.
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Youth poetry: Workshops Ignite Passion for Poetry
The day began with a series of engaging workshops facilitated by renowned poets Annetta Benzar, Maria Kouvarou, and Andros Zacharia. These sessions were designed to encourage students to view poetry as a vibrant art form, emphasising expression over rigid structure. Participants were invited to explore their individuality and vulnerability, allowing them to break free from conventional norms.
Photo: cyprus-mail.com
Understanding Poetry Beyond the Page
During the workshops, students were encouraged to reflect on the essence of poetry. Answers varied widely, with some describing it as a means to articulate the inexpressible, while others viewed it as a playful exploration of language and sound. The poets highlighted that there is no singular path to writing poetry, stressing that authenticity and emotional resonance are paramount. Emphasis was placed on performance techniques, with students learning how to use their voice and body to enhance their delivery.
Building a Supportive Community
As the event progressed, a palpable sense of camaraderie developed among the participants. Students shared their nerves and excitement, forging connections that transcended school boundaries. This supportive atmosphere paved the way for the poetry slam, where each student took to the stage with a unique story to tell.
Exploration of Diverse Themes
The amphitheatre transformed into a sanctuary of expression, with students presenting poems that delved into personal experiences surrounding identity, fear, injustice, mental health, belonging, and self-acceptance. Each performance was a testament to the power of storytelling, showcasing the diverse perspectives of young voices.
Capturing the Moments
Student journalists played a vital role in documenting the event, conducting interviews that captured the emotions of participants before and after their performances. This initiative provided insight into the personal journeys of the young poets and underscored the importance of sharing their narratives with a broader audience.
Celebrating Talented Poets
The judging panel, comprised of Benzar, Kouvarou, Zacharia, Alexandros Chronides, and Ideogramma co-founder Nora Hadjisotiriou, faced the challenging task of selecting winners. The upper school prize was awarded to Makayla Ejodame from the American Academy, recognised for her compelling presence and emotional depth. Raaisha Gupta from Heritage took home the lower school prize for her poignant performance.
Encouragement Beyond the Competition
While the competition was fierce, the spirit of the event transcended the prizes. First and second runners-up in the upper school category included Kristina Kovalenko from Heritage and Evita Troisi from Xenion, while Leith Ryan Meshal from Heritage and Samantha Cummings from Xenion earned similar accolades in the lower school. High achievement awards were presented to Sophie Plumtree and Ariel Reuveni Cohen, both hailing from Heritage. Additionally, audience members participated in a popular vote, with Ejodame finishing first, closely followed by Meshal and Cummings.
Empowerment Through Expression
Regardless of the results, each participant departed with a newfound sense of ownership over their voice and creativity. The event reinforced the idea that poetry knows no age limits or thematic restrictions; it is a medium rooted in honesty and openness. This year’s Youth Poetry Slam at Xenion High School served as a powerful reminder of the impact that allowing young people to express themselves can have on their development.
A Collective Celebration of Youth Voices
The Youth Poetry Slam showcased the immense talent and passion of young poets, highlighting the importance of giving them a platform to share their thoughts and feelings. As these students stepped into the spotlight, they not only shared their words but also their experiences, dreams, and challenges. Through this vibrant celebration of talent and voice, Xenion High School has set a precedent for future events, ensuring that poetry continues to thrive as a means of connection and expression for generations to come.
