For over 25 years, the Youth Speaks Teen Poetry Slam has propelled spoken word around the globe. Youth from all over the Bay compete to become a finalist and represent the Bay Area at Brave New Voices — the only 4-day international youth poetry festival in the world — celebrating arts education, performance, and civic engagement.
Poetry Slams are an Olympic-style competition where poets have 3 minutes and 30 seconds to share their original work! No props, costumes, or musical accompaniment allowed, only you and the power of youth voice.
The Teen Poetry Slam and Brave New Voices Festival is an annual tradition celebrating some of the most astounding young writers and performers from around the globe.
2025 Finals Winners
Congratulations to the 2025 Teen Poetry Slam Champion, Maya, representing Oakland. Dozens of youth from all across the Bay Area competed, but only one poet was named champion. Shout out to every poet who touched the stage this year!
Also clap it up for the top six scoring poets who will represent the Bay Area at the 2025 Brave New Voices Festival in Madison WI, this July.
Pictured (from left to right):
Julia • Berkeley
Abayomi • Oakland
Anika • Fremont
Zoe • Oakland
Maya • Oakland
Bell • Berkeley
