News Summary
Orlando is on the lookout for its next Poet Laureate as Shawn Welcome ends his impactful term. The search for Central Florida’s new literary leader is now open until June 30, 2025. The new laureate will be revealed in October 2025, following a selection process that emphasizes artistic merit and community engagement in poetry.
Orlando is looking for its new Poet Laureate as Shawn Welcome prepares to conclude his impactful term, making way for the city’s third laureate since the position was established in 2017 by Mayor Buddy Dyer. Welcome, who rose from a background of homelessness to become a successful, nationally recognized speaker and performer, has played a pivotal role in elevating the arts and engaging the community throughout his tenure.
As the application window for the next Poet Laureate is currently open until June 30, 2025, candidates are encouraged to apply. The new laureate will be officially introduced in October 2025. Applicants must be residents of Central Florida, at least 21 years old, and they should have a documented history of accomplishments in poetry. The selection committee will review submissions, assessing the artistic merit, quality of literary works, and relevant achievements of candidates.
Shawn Welcome’s journey to becoming Orlando’s Poet Laureate is a testament to his resilience and talent. Having once faced homelessness and relied on friends and family for shelter, he has now transformed his life, discovering a passion for poetry while being inspired by the vibrant arts scene of New York. Before focusing solely on poetry, Welcome held various jobs, from cabinet installation to working in a call center. His dedication and unique style have made waves in the local literary community, where he has garnered respect and admiration for his craft.
Throughout his time as Poet Laureate, Welcome has performed at numerous events, including conventions and galas, and had the honor of performing at the opening of Orlando’s Steinmetz Hall. Known for his ability to customize performances according to audience demographics, he interweaves local culture and history into his poetry. His work often incorporates elements of rap and traditional styles, tackling significant social issues through innovative rhymes and engaging cadences.
One of Welcome’s notable contributions has been his outreach within the community, specifically by performing at the Orange County Jail, with the intent of inspiring inmates through the power of poetry. By doing so, he has helped to foster a deeper connection to the art form and its potential for positive change. His efforts have not only sought to elevate poetry but have also effectively engaged various communities, making the art form accessible to a wider audience.
Mayor Dyer recognized the potential benefits of having a Poet Laureate after witnessing the positive impacts of similar roles in other cities. During Welcome’s term, Orlando’s literary profile has notably risen, with the city set to host the upcoming Southern Fried Poetry Slam, a testament to the progress made under his guidance. Welcome has established the organization Shawn Welcome & Associates, through which he continues to advocate for poetry as a catalyst for social change and community engagement.
As Orlando seeks its next Poet Laureate, the city stands poised for a continuation of the inspiring legacy that Welcome has built. His work has not only enriched the cultural landscape but has also inspired a new generation of poets to find their voices and utilize their art for uplifting and connecting with the community. The search for Orlando’s next literary leader reflects the city’s commitment to thriving arts and the importance of poetry in fostering dialogue and understanding within diverse communities.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Orlando Seeks Applications for Third Poet Laureate
Exciting Events in Orlando This May
Orlando Seeks New Poet Laureate as Current Term Ends
Central Florida Celebrates Black History Month Events
Additional Resources
- Your Community Paper
- Orlando Weekly
- Bungalower
- Click Orlando
- Fox 35 Orlando
- Wikipedia: Poet Laureate
- Google Search: Poet Laureate Orlando
- Google Scholar: Poetry Orlando
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Poetry
- Google News: Orlando Poet Laureate
