The AVBOB Poetry Competition opens for a ninth year
This year's theme is 'I wish I'd said…'. Poets may enter up to 10 poems. They can also choose from any of the nation's 11 official written languages. Entries are open until 30 November.
Carl van der Riet, AVBOB CEO, expresses the competition's mission simply. 'We want to give every South African a chance to find and share their best words.
Each poem adds to an ongoing conversation, drawing us closer to understanding ourselves and each other.'
He adds, 'Poetry helps us when we are lost for words. At those moments, it offers images and gestures to steady us.'
This year, the stakes are high. The first-place winner in each language will receive a total of R 12,500. This includes R 10,000 in cash, a R 2,500 book voucher, and the coveted AVBOB Poetry Trophy.
Poets whose work is published in the AVBOB Poetry Library will also receive a R300 publication fee.
Competition guidelines are straightforward. Submit your poems through the online dashboard at www.avbobpoetry.co.za.
A panel of judges will select the strongest entries in each language. The top three poems per language will be featured in the annual printed anthology.
All shortlisted poems will be translated into English. 'Translation brings voices together – it encourages understanding and fellow-feeling among South Africans,' says a member of the organising team.
New and aspiring poets can take advantage of the AVBOB Poetry website's free resources. Expert advice, guidance from editors, and stories about past winners can help entrants polish their submissions.
Judges share tips and pointers, and the social media channels provide updates about free online workshops.
These workshops, running throughout the submission period and beyond, are a platform for learning and growth.
'It's wonderful to see participants coming with their own stories and leaving with new skills and inspiration,' says a workshop facilitator.
The AVBOB Poetry Competition has become a staple in the country's cultural calendar. It stands as a testament to the healing and unifying force of poetry.
Carl van der Riet sums up its impact, saying, 'Every year the generosity of entries moves us.' Entrants share themselves with honesty and courage.
The competition archives poems from across South Africa and creates a living record. It is an open invitation to continue the conversation together.'
Entries are open now until 30 November. All South Africans are welcome to find a voice, write, and share their words. You could be the next winner.
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.
Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
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