We hold quarterly virtual competitions for students to stay engaged and motivated to continue crafting their art of poetry and public speaking. We offer free virtual tutoring for competition or just to work on poetry and speaking skills. The virtual competitions help improve access to this art form across Upcoming Deadline: November 30, 2025.
1st place: Lily Fernandez, Dana Middle School, Fullerton
1st place: Elena Navarro, El Sol Academy, Santa Ana
2nd place: Brianna Rivera, El Sol Academy, Santa Ana
3rd place: Axel Hernandez, Intermediate Fundamental School of Mendez, Santa Ana
All winners received Barnes and Nobles gift cards,
Next competition deadline: November 30, 2025
Olivia le is a talented youth spoken poet. As a U.S. Presidential Scholar in the Arts, she has won state and national poetry competitions and was a finalist for the California Youth Poet Laureate. Her work has been published internationally and she is a 2-year Get Lit Player with Get Lit-Words Ignite. She used spoken word to share about her experiences and raise awareness on social issues.
Dharma Lemon is a writer, teaching artist, and activist from Los Angeles County. She is involved with an organization called Get Lit – Words Ignite. Her work focuses on topics like feminism, body positivity, the environment, and racial injustice. She is known for her passionate writing and activism, having performed alongside celebrity activists and participated in various events, including “Artists for Amazonia”.
Marcus Omari is a critically acclaimed poet, writer, performer, and instructor who teaches poetry programs across Orange County. He’s known for his spoken word performances and has authored several chapbooks. He’s a six-time National Speech and Debate Award winner and has been featured on TV shows like VERSES & FLOW on TV One. He’s also the founder of the Poetic Reform Party.
