Kaylee Joge Named 2025 Prince George’s County Youth Poet Laureate
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Contact: Patrick Washington dialectofpgcounty@gmail.com
Kaylee Joge Named 2025 Prince George’s County Youth Poet Laureate
Bowie, MD – The Prince George’s County Office of the Poet Laureate and Dialect of Prince George’s proudly announce Kaylee Joge, a sophomore at Parkdale High School, as the 2025 Prince George’s County Youth Poet Laureate. Kaylee was selected for her outstanding artistic talent, deep commitment to community, and powerful voice as a young leader and creative.
The announcement was made during the 10th Annual Youth Poet Laureate Finals, held on Saturday, May 3, 2025, at the Bowie Branch Library in Bowie, Maryland. Ten exceptional youth poets, ages 13–19, competed for the title in an inspiring afternoon of spoken word and storytelling. Hosted by renowned spoken word artist Patrick Washington, the event marked a milestone year in the program’s decade-long commitment to uplifting youth voices across the County.
Kaylee stood out for her authenticity, poetic strength, and fearless storytelling—embodying what it means to use art as a tool for connection, reflection, and resilience.
“This title isn’t just about poetry—it's about leadership,” said Washington. “Kaylee’s voice is one that resonates far beyond the stage. She is a reminder that our youth are not just the future—they are shaping the present.”
The event also featured a special appearance by 2024 Youth Poet Laureate Saniya Pearson, who reflected on her journey and passed the torch to Kaylee with a message of encouragement and pride. “This journey has taught me the meaning of resilience,” said Pearson. “Kaylee, and this entire new cohort, will carry the legacy forward with courage and creativity.”
In addition to naming the 2025 laureate, the event celebrated the achievements of the other six talented finalists:
Arianna Fulcher – Brentwood
Charlene Badawu – Fort Washington
Elizabeth Alarape – Laurel
Adebimpe Omotosho – Upper Marlboro
Nevaeh Williams – Temple Hills
Xavier Perry – Upper Marlboro
The evening also honored Chimwekele Okoro, recipient of the Lucille Clifton Scholarship, awarded in recognition of poetic excellence and promise.
Since its founding, the Prince George’s County Youth Poet Laureate program has provided a platform for young writers to develop their voice, connect with the community, and step into leadership through poetry and performance. Supported by the Prince George’s Arts and Humanities Council (PGAHC) and Dialect of Prince George’s, the program continues to spotlight the transformative power of youth expression in shaping our culture and communities.
To learn more about the Youth Poet Laureate program and follow Kaylee’s journey throughout the year, visit: www.pgahc.org