In a world that often feels noisy and overwhelming, the simple act of writing a poem can be grounding—and even healing.
That’s the spirit behind the AVBOB Poetry Competition, which makes its highly anticipated return for the ninth year on 1 August 2025.
This much-loved South African competition isn’t just about winning prizes—it’s about finding your voice, sharing your story, and connecting through the power of language.
This Year’s Theme Encourages Honest Reflection
The 2025 theme, “I wish I’d said…”, invites writers to reflect on the unsaid.
Whether it’s a missed apology, a tender thank you, or a truth held back, this year’s prompt encourages poets to put words to feelings they’ve struggled to express.
Entrants are allowed to submit up to 10 poems, and they can write in any of South Africa’s 11 official written languages.
Submissions are open until 30 November 2025.
AVBOB’s Mission: Give Every South African a Voice
AVBOB CEO Carl van der Riet says the competition is about much more than poetry.
“We want to give every South African a chance to find and share their best words,” he explains.
He adds, “Poetry helps us when we are lost for words.
At those moments, it offers images and gestures to steady us.”
That’s what makes this competition so powerful—every single poem contributes to a larger conversation about healing, identity, and togetherness.
Big Prizes for Beautiful Words
There’s plenty of motivation to enter beyond self-expression.
Winners in each language category will walk away with a R12,500 prize, made up of:
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R10,000 in cash
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A R2,500 book voucher
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The prestigious AVBOB Poetry Trophy
Plus, any poem selected for publication in the AVBOB Poetry Library earns a R300 publication fee.
If your work stands out, it could also be included in the printed annual anthology, which showcases the top three poems per language.
How to Submit Your Work
Getting involved is easy. Just head over to www.avbobpoetry.co.za and use the online dashboard to upload your entries.
Behind the scenes, a panel of language-specific judges will carefully select the strongest poems.
The judging process is thorough, fair, and designed to spotlight the best talent in every language.
Free Resources for Poets of All Levels
Not sure where to begin? Don’t worry—AVBOB has your back.
Their website is packed with free resources, from editing tips to behind-the-scenes stories of past winners.
There’s expert advice from seasoned poets and guidance from competition editors.
You’ll also find social media updates on free online poetry workshops running during the entry period.
Workshops to Inspire and Empower
These workshops are more than just poetry tutorials—they’re creative communities.
A workshop facilitator shared, “It’s wonderful to see participants come in with their own stories and leave with new skills and inspiration.”
Whether you’re a first-time writer or a long-time poet, these sessions help build confidence and sharpen your writing.
Why This Competition Matters So Much
The AVBOB Poetry Competition has become a highlight on South Africa’s cultural calendar.
Year after year, it proves that words really do matter.
Carl van der Riet reflects on the emotional impact: “Every year the generosity of entries moves us.”
The archive created by the competition captures voices from every corner of the country—a living library of South African experiences.
Everyone Has Something to Say
Entries are now open, and everyone is welcome. Whether you’re writing from the heart, honouring a memory, or simply exploring your creativity, this is your moment to share your words.
Maybe this is the year you write that poem you’ve been carrying inside you.
You never know—you could be the next AVBOB Poetry Competition winner.