12 Black youth poets reach within and create beautiful animated dreams

In Jennifer Kasiama’s wise I Spy, a young Jenn finds a bottle of skin lightening cream which takes her on a fantastical adventure, exploring colourism and its effect on self-confidence.

In her evocative poem Secondary, Libin Ahmed addresses how anger can get the best of her, but how she can also appropriate its power.

Jesse June-Jack’s moving poem The Trees Sing in Your Place When the Seas Cannot, is an ode to the earth, and a call to action to each of us to do our part to save the planet.

Furqan Mohamed’s vivid poem Bag Lady uses the contents of a young woman's purse to explore being a woman, coming of age, and the power of generational knowledge.

9 year-old Eva Anthony’s engaging poem Advice offers a list of useful and wise directions on how to live a better life.

In his witty poem Astronaut, 12 year-old Cameron James fantasies about what life would be like in space, as he muses about becoming his own inspiration.

In A Letter to My Son, young mother Laura Baptiste delivers a moving promise to her son, offering him the strength to face adversity, as well as her unconditional love.

Chris Markland’s inventive poem Supafly, is based on the poet's own journey navigating insecurities, identity, and mental health.

In Dear Simone Biles, former gymnast Egypt Morgan changes her outlook on the sport with the help of the superstar herself, and ignites the confidence to tackle any challenge that comes her way.

The poignant Seed Cycle by Ivy Black, follows a young girl who investigates how she, like a young sapling, can grow and blossom into her own best self.

In Akil Elijah’s haunting Angel Money, the death of his father takes him on a emotional journey through signs, and sorrow, into grace.

Hurricane explores the torment of fear and anxiety, and how poet Aaliyah Aden musters the strength to overcome it.