On March 3, 2026, Destination Stratford announced the appointment of Arlo Dunnem as the new Youth Poet Laureate for the city of Stratford, Ontario. The program supports local creative voices and helps promote literature and performing arts to residents and visitors through community events and outreach.
The role is a one-year position designed for local residents between the ages of 14 and 24. This program is funded by the local tourism body and works in partnership with the Stratford Public Library to encourage literacy and artistic expression among young people.
The new representative takes over from Quinn Mayer, who was the first person to hold the title after the program started in 2025. This change is part of a commitment to cultural growth that includes local workshops and public poetry readings throughout the community.
The announcement comes just before the community begins celebrations for National Poetry Month in April 2026. The Youth Poet Laureate will act as an ambassador for the city at these upcoming events and other artistic gatherings during their term.
