Here you can find information about poetry contests organized or co-organized by the MoSt Poetry Center, including the Stanislaus County Youth Poet Laureate program; City of Modesto Poet’s Corner; and the Aileen Jaffa Young Poets Contest. Click the links below or in the navigation menu to explore these opportunities.
Contests
Aileen Jaffa Young Poets Contest 2025
Co-sponsored by MoSt (Modesto Stanislaus Poetry Center) and the National League of American Pen Women (NLAPW), Modesto chapter. This contest is offered as a means of encouraging young writers throughout Stanislaus County and as a way to remember poet Aileen Jaffa, the founding President of the Poets of the San Joaquin and member of the …
City of Modesto Poet’s Corner
The Poet’s Corner Contest is brought to you by the community lead Modesto Poet’s Corner Committee and the City of Modesto Parks, Recreation and Neighborhoods Department. The contest is open to poets of any age who reside in Stanislaus County, and students who attend schools in Stanislaus County. The 2025 Poet’s Corner contest is now …
Stanislaus County Youth Poet Laureate
New Youth Laureate for 2025-2026 We are so happy to announce Modesto High School student Valentina Zeff as Stanislaus County’s Youth Poet Laureate for 2025-2026! About Valentina Zeff Valentina Zeff is a sixteen year old poet from Modesto, California who is currently enrolled in the International Baccalaureate program at Modesto High School. Zeff has been …