The shortlist for the inaugural Vivian Ihaza [SEVHAGE] Teen Poetry Prize 2024, which recognises outstanding poetry by young Nigerian writers aged 12 to 17 has just been released. This prize was established in honour of Vivian Ihaza, a distinguished professional and passionate advocate for the arts, knowledge-sharing, and youth development.
The shortlisted poems, presented in alphabetical order by title, are:
- “A Body Walks Into Grief with [ ]” by Divine Okpe (Jewel Model Secondary School, Abuja)
- “A Shaping Into Stormy Days & Dead Nights” by Sa’ada Isa Yahaya (Jewel Model Secondary School, Abuja)
- “Burning Elysium” by Muhammad M. Ubandoma (Father O’Connell Science College, Minna)
- “Clad Over the Starkness of Earth” by Grace Orobosa (University of Benin)
- “Cravings” by Emmanuella Koori (Jewel Model Secondary School, Abuja)
- “Demand: Marriage Rule To Be Adjusted” by Racheal Dandi Madakan (Jewel Model Secondary School, Abuja)
- “First Confession; A Burning Haibun” by Alaga Unwomanumu (University of Port Harcourt)
- “Ode to Innocence” by Azizah Bello (Jewel Model Secondary School, Abuja)
- “The Living Prays to Die like You” by Noah Faith (Jewel Model Secondary School, Abuja)
The winner of the prize will be announced at the Benue Book and Arts Festival, scheduled to take place in Makurdi on the 21st and 22nd of February 2025 at the Empire Suites. The Vivian Ihaza Teen Poetry Prize is one of the core components of the SEVHAGE Literary Prizes organised by SEVHAGE Publishers and SEVHAGE Literary and Development Initiative. The judges for the Vivian Ihaza Prize 2024 are the celebrated poets, Dami Ajayi, Olajide Salawu, and Rasaq Malik.
About Vivian Ihaza
Vivian Ihaza was a highly accomplished Marketing and Communications professional with over 17 years of experience. She built an impressive career in broadcasting, sales, advertising, and marketing management, holding senior positions at multiple blue-chip companies across various industries. Beyond her professional success, Vivian was deeply passionate about sharing knowledge and empowering others. She dedicated much of her time to consulting and capacity building, helping individuals and organizations grow. A committed advocate for the arts, Vivian was known for her philanthropy and deep compassion. She loved learning, evolving, and encouraging others to do the same, making her a beloved figure among all who knew her.
The Vivian Ihaza [SEVHAGE] Teen Poetry Prize was established to honor her legacy by fostering creativity, cultural appreciation, and self-expression among the next generation of Nigerian poets.
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