Nanaimo seeks next poet laureate for 2027-2029 term

Nanaimo is accepting applications for its next poet laureate, who will create poetry and related work that reflects the city and its community. Outgoing poet laureate Neil Surkan, a Vancouver Island University English professor, said the role has been a lifechanging experience. He described using the position to bring poetry into everyday settings and to encourage residents to encounter poetic language in their daily lives. Surkan’s term ends later this year. He said the next laureate should be open to unexpected opportunities and hopes they bring enthusiasm and delight to the role. As part of the outgoing term, he is also preparing a Poetry Stone, a short poem that will be installed outside the Port Theatre.