This followed an application process where pupils submitted three of their own poems, and is a collaborative venture organised by Portsmouth City Council, the library services and Portsmouth Poetry. It is part of a program to mark Portsmouth’s 100 years as a city.
"We were delighted to attend The Lens Studio at Portsmouth’s Guildhall last week to celebrate our pupil Moyin. Moyin has been awarded the prestigious title of Young Poet Laureate for Portsmouth. The panel of judges praised the distinctness of her voice, and whilst they compared all applications to a treasure trove of poetry, they compared reading her entries to ‘finding a diamond amongst the treasure chest."
Moyin performed the three poems she had composed for her application, her performances were powerful and moving as she spoke on themes such as race, immigration and societal expectations. During her acceptance speech there was a touching moment where she invited her entire family to share the stage and thanked them for their enduring support. Moyin also praised the 432 Nomads, the local poetry collective who have worked with Charter students for the last few years in after school poetry workshops.
This is an impressive achievement, and we are extremely proud of our resident young poet laureate, who has a very exciting year ahead.
