SOUTH African creatives are encouraged to enter the 2027 Avbob Poetry Competition which welcomes entries in all 11 official written languages.

Entries for the 2027 competition opened on Saturday, 1 August and will close on 30 November.

The strongest entries in each language category will be published in the online Avbob Poetry Library, with each published poet receiving a R300 publication fee.

First-place winners in each language category will receive prizes worth R12 500, comprising R10 000 in cash, a R2 500 book voucher and the prestigious Avbob Poetry Trophy.

Platform for expression

Avbob executive Adriaan Bester said, “Each year we are moved by the depth and honesty of the entries we receive.

“The Avbob Poetry Library now contains close to 30 000 poems, and submitting new work has become an annual tradition for many poets nationwide. When the competition was first launched, we could not have imagined the impact it would have across so many languages and communities.”

Bester notes poetry helps people express emotions that are often difficult to put into words.

“When we feel most deeply, whether in joy or sorrow, we are often at a loss for words. It is at such times that we turn to poetry for courage, consolation and clarity. By joining this shared poetic conversation, many people discover the words for their own deepest feelings,” said Bester.

Regulations for submission

Poets may submit up to 10 poems through the online competition dashboard.

The top three poems in each language category will be published in the annual print anthology, while all shortlisted poems will be translated into English to promote understanding and appreciation across South Africa’s diverse languages.

Aspiring poets can access free resources on the Avbob Poetry website, including editorial guidelines, expert advice and articles by successful poets.

Throughout the competition, free online workshops will be hosted by experienced poets and publishers to provide practical guidance and inspiration.

Workshop details are shared on the Avbob Poetry social media platforms.
To participate in the 2027 Avbob Poetry Competition, register on www.Avbobpoetry.co.za.

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