Last year, Issy served as our Poet Laureate, writing unique and inspiring pieces for major events including Remembrance Day and our Awards Evening. She also brought creativity to seasonal celebrations with a festive Christmas poem and captured the spirit of our Pride Club, The Power of Us, with a specially written piece.

The Young City Laureateship invited young writers aged 14–19 from across Plymouth to submit two creative pieces: one on the theme 'Plymouth’s Beacons'—exploring what lights up the city for them—and another that best reflected their own voice as a writer.

Run jointly by Plymouth Culture and Literature Works, the Young City Laureateship provides a platform for an emerging writer to represent their city through words. The role involves creating new work that reflects local life, taking on public writing commissions, and contributing to community events, all while developing their creative practice.

On her appointment, Issy said:
“I am thrilled to have such an opportunity to revive a love for literature. Growing up, I was the child who loved writing but never had the confidence to share this skill outside my family living room; this led to my poems expressing my feelings or issues that I would never say out loud but I would share with my notebook, even in my teenage years. My main aim is to help bring back our love and confidence towards literature again, especially to those with different backgrounds or abilities. I cannot wait to see where this chapter will take me!”

Reflecting on the competition, Issy explained:
“I had to create two different pieces of work. The first was based on the theme ‘Plymouth’s Beacons’, which I found challenging due to the theme itself and the time pressure. However, it pushed me in a positive way and helped me grow as a writer. My poem, ‘Lost at Sea’, was inspired by Smeaton’s Tower as a guiding light home, making the piece especially meaningful to me.”

“The second poem, which needed to reflect my own voice as a writer, came much more naturally. In fact, I had written it before I even knew about the competition. I prefer to write instinctively, following inspiration rather than sticking to a set theme. My poem, ‘I Would Like to Be a Writer’, explores the limitations placed on writers—especially how poets are often expected to analyse their work and uncover a ‘meaning.’ This piece was my favourite to create; it was very personal and emotional for me.”

When asked how she felt about winning, Issy said:
“When I found out I had won, I couldn’t believe it—I was in shock for almost a week. I’m overjoyed and honoured to be creating commissions and leading poetry events, one of which gives me the chance to bring another writer along with me. I can’t wait to get started on this poetry journey.”

We are incredibly proud of Issy on this outstanding achievement. Becoming Plymouth’s Young City Laureate is a true testament to her talent, dedication, and creativity. We congratulate her on this well-deserved success and look forward to seeing the inspiring work she will produce in her new role.

Read the Press Release below: