Already, at 30, Modupeola Kalejaye Olumegbon has published an anthology of poetry which has been endorsed by the Lagos State Ministry of Education. 

Her collection of poems, Elan Vital (Essence) was listed in the Lagos State Government Ministry of Education’s approved book list 2020-2023 for Junior Secondary School 1-3. The trained accountant plans to publish other works.

She takes things a notch higher by sharing her passion with other youths, culminating in the recent inauguration of a poetry competition in her name. The first edition, which held recently in Lagos, was very well attended by students from top tier schools in the state. 

In this digital age, do people still read poetry and things like that?

While technology has changed the way we consume poetry in this digital age, people continue to read and write poems.  While technology has  changed the way we consume content,  poetry remains a cherished form of expression whether through social media,  blogs or e-books, poetry finds its way into our lives,  so yes.

How did you come up with this kind of poetry competition where participants actually read their own poems rather than submitting write ups?

 My deep love for poetry sparked the idea and I also recognise the power of words. I wanted to create a platform where poets share their work. I also noticed we don’t really support poetry in Nigeria out of the three genres of literature. A poetry competition allowed me to bring poets together, fostering connectivity and creativity. I believe the competition will encourage growth and learning and in this digital era, poetry thrives online. I am a poet myself with a collection of poems that has been approved by the Lagos State Education Board and currently used by schools.

The school that won this particular edition, why, in your opinion did they win?

The poems were judged on the basis of creativity, delivery and emotional impact and Top-grade Secondary School won the first prize because of the way the contestant read her poem exactly like a poet. That is part of the delivery and emotional impact.

How will engagements such as this reduce the incidence of anti-social behaviour amongst young people?

 Engaging young people in creative writing competitions and writing clubs such as mine, the Modupeola Creative Writing Club, can significantly reduce cultism and other anti-social behaviour.  

I believe poetry allows youths to express their emotions, frustrations and experiences. 

Creative writing clubs also provide a safe space for self expression, emotional release and catharsis.

Through poetry, young people explore diverse perspectives. They step into developing empathy and understanding. In other words, they feel what others feel when they do those bad things. This empathy can curb the ‘us’ versus ‘them’ mentality associated with cultism and anti-social behaviour. 

These days, youths don’t really have role models. They are looking up to these artistes, celebrities-  the social celebrities, not the ones that can really contribute to their lives so I believe that poetry events introduce you to successful poets and writers who inspire creativity and offer alternatives to destructive paths. 

Exposure to positive influences can steer young people away from vices. 

Writing clubs like mine give the youth a purpose, gives them something meaningful to focus on and remember, words have power and can heal, transform and guide young hearts towards positive choices.

What would you like to see happen in that space in the long-term?

To cultivate a vibrant community of passionate writers to inspire and support one another, to actually seek out emerging literary talents, promoting the Nigerian future.  We are committed to encouraging writing in indigenous languages and celebrating cultural diversity is central to our mission. We want to extend our impact beyond workshops in schools, libraries and communities.  Our goal is to inspire others to appreciate and engage. We also want to do collaborations and hosting competitions internationally is part of our vision. Digital literacy advocacy, leveraging technology, extend our reach.  Our online presence enables us to engage a global audience.  

Remember, creativity is a journey and a continuum and evolution.  I dream of a space where even the quietest souls find expression. We will write words that become balms for weary souls. Poetry will ripple through screens.  I dream of anthologies, spaces filled with our collective heartbeats. Our words will linger, inspiring generations yet unborn.