Organized by International Armenian Literary Alliance (IALA), the Young Armenian Poets Awards (YAPA) is an annual contest launched in 2021 that recognizes and provides a platform for exciting new Armenian writers between the ages of 14 and 18. Submissions are encouraged from any young writer who identifies as Armenian, no matter their background, from any and all nations and regions from around the world. The work needs to be in English, but translations are acceptable so long as the translator is named.

 

Quick Facts About YAPA 

• A panel of judges select three to four poems annually by young Armenian writers whose work shows exceptional literary and creative ability. This year, the contest will once again be judged by Gregory Djanikian, Arminé Iknadossian and Raffi Wartanian.
• With support by donor Sam D. Ekizian, winners in 2024 will be awarded $200 each and have their work published on IALA’s website and partner organization h-pem magazine.
• This will be our fourth year hosting this program, directed by IALA Advisory Board member Alan Semerdjian.
• 13 High school poets have published and performed their work on an international stage through Young Armenian Poets Awards. You can find last year’s theme and winning poems here, and watch our 2023 Emerging Writers Showcase below (which also includes readings by the mentees of our 2023 Mentorship Program).