Things are warming up at the Shepparton Library as it prepares to host a Victorian heat of Poetry Slam.
From July to October, Australian Poetry Slam heats and workshops are connecting storytellers across the nation, leading into the national final as part of Story Week 2022.
Shepparton’s heat will be hosted by the current Australian Poetry Slam champion, Huda the Goddess.
Whether a beginner in the poetry world or holding a few years' experience under the belt, the poetry slam is open to all levels.
Places are limited to 20 people to compete on Sunday, September 11.
The winner will go on to compete in the Victorian finals, and if securing a win, may go on to a place in the national final.
Program co-ordinator Bronwyn Cole said one of the best parts of the poetry slam was the audience participation.
“Come along and let your enthusiasm show! Judges are selected from the audience, so you may have a hand in selecting the next slam champion,” she said.
Huda the Goddess is a spoken word poet, educator, mental health advocate, dancer and workshop facilitator, currently working on her first poetry collection.
As a proud African-Muslim woman, it’s important to her that young women from her community are represented and their stories are shared.
She said poetry was her connection to communities, land and her people.
In collaboration with the library, Huda the Goddess will host a poetry workshop for 20 people to hone their skills and become inspired.
Those wanting to compete in the Shepparton heat can only register in person on the night; registration begins at 6.30pm while the heat starts at 7pm. Places are limited to 20 poets.