Enter a Poetry Writing Competition That Gives You the Chance to Get Published

The AVBOB Poetry Project is your opportunity to transform your creativity into something meaningful and lasting. By entering, you stand a chance to have your work featured in I Wish I’d Said…, a cherished annual poetry anthology containing poems in all 11 official written languages. This August, our poetry writing competition opens its doors to poets from every corner of the country, celebrating diverse voices and stories. Whether you’re most fluent in English, isiZulu, isiXhosa, Afrikaans, or any of our nation’s other official languages, your poem has a place here. The contest is a platform for recognition of local talent, and everyone is invited to enter for free, no matter their poetry skills. This means your words could be preserved in a print anthology, contributing to South Africa’s rich literary heritage.

The Power of a Poetry Writing Competition That Embraces Your Voice

The AVBOB Poetry Project took the age-old art form of poetry and created a space that welcomes all writers regardless of their level of expertise. This free poetry writing competition is highly inclusive, and entering isn’t about conforming to a specific style – we’re here to encourage you to write from the heart. You’re invited whether you’re an experienced poet or someone who has only ever scribbled verses in a journal privately because to us, your work is valuable. By offering a platform that celebrates all 11 official languages and offers exciting prizes to the winners, the AVBOB Poetry Competition ensures that every South African has the chance to tell their story in the language they feel most comfortable using. It’s a celebration of the diversity that gives our nation its rainbow identity.

More On Our Latest Print Anthology I Wish I’d Said... Vol. 7

The seventh volume of I Wish I’d Said… is a treasured collection of South African poetry. It features 100 poems centred on universal themes like birth, death, love, hope, and new beginnings (our newest theme). The anthology has been thoughtfully compiled by Johann de Lange and Professor Stanley Madonsela, both of whom bring a wealth of experience and passion for poetry. Johann de Lange is a prestigious South African writer, poet, and recipient of the Ingrid Jonker Prize and the Hertzog Prize for Poetry. He is known for his exceptional eye for language and distinctive approach to themes surrounding the human condition in his writing. Professor Stanley Madonsela, Chair of the Department of African Languages at UNISA, is a highly educated researcher and contributes his deep cultural insight and expertise to the compilation, ensuring the anthology truly represents South Africa’s linguistic heritage.

A significant addition to this volume is a commissioned poem in Khoikhoi by poet Toroga Denver, using an ancestral language that is rarely seen in modern literature. This inclusion is due to our dedication to preserving South Africa’s heritage and honouring the cultures that shaped our nation. For those who want to improve their own poetry and start practising today, I Wish I’d Said… Vol. 7 is a fantastic learning tool. By reading and reflecting on these poems, you can gain insight into different writing styles, explore new ways to express your ideas, and better understand the requirements of the competition.

What Awaits You When You Enter

Entering our poetry writing competition means you get to participate in a dynamic community of local talent. We understand that submitting a poem can feel intimidating if you have never entered a writing contest. This competition, however, is designed to embrace all voices. It’s a safe and welcoming space to share your work and see how far your words can go. It’s the chance for you to gain experience and recognition and create something meaningful that others can share in, too.

Our Annual Competition Opens in August – So Start Writing Today!

With the announcement of our latest winners and the start of the next annual poetry writing competition just months away, now is the perfect time to start preparing your submission. Writing a poem doesn’t happen overnight, so take this time for some reflection, creativity, and revision. Start by jotting down some ideas, exploring your emotions, and experimenting with language. If you’re unsure where to begin, have a look at our library, filled with inspiring works that can help spark your imagination. This is your chance to be part of something extraordinary, so don’t miss out!