On Apr. 27, 2023, Olivia Veroy ’27 was awarded the title of Daly City’s 2023-2024 Youth Poet Laureate after being encouraged by her parents to share her poetic prowess.
According to the Daly City Public Library Associates (DCPLA), this program recognizes and celebrates teen poets who live or attend school in Daly City and are committed to artistic excellence, civic engagement, leadership, and social justice.
Her journey into poetry began when “there was a school assignment in eighth grade for like poetry from your perspective, and that’s when I started writing poetry based on things I’ve gone through in life… and to help process my emotions.”
“I want people to know what that’s like and the things you experience as an immigrant,” she added.
Veroy’s English teacher, Diana Assereto, praises her work: “Her poetry is edgy, impactful, and emotionally moving all at the same time with a level of depth that I don’t normally see from a freshman.”
Her friend from Mercy High School Burlingame, Nina Sasu agreed, saying, “Now, after having read many of her poems, I can say that each one has been evocative and thought-provoking.”
This creative outlet has not only provided her with a sense of solace in difficult times, but a means by which she can improve her confidence through performing at events, like art festivals and bookstore openings, to support the literary arts.
Veroy’s enduring passion for poetry stems from “encouraging others, and especially younger people to write poetry.”
“I love to share my perspective on things that I feel like are unique to me, and I like to share my voice with people in my community and also support my community,” she added.
Her commitment to supporting her community rings true in her involvement in her elementary school’s community service group, The Lunchmakers, which assembles and distributes bagged lunches to the unhoused and underserved.
Additionally, she is working on a service project that encourages youth (4th to 8th-graders) involvement in poetry by creating a video compilation of haiku the students have written.
“Olivia can be an inspiration to other teenagers to pursue their interests, get out of their comfort zones, and be the best they can be,” said Assereto.
“Her work has indeed already inspired other teenagers, as Sasu concluded, “I have always loved writing poetry, but her work really inspires me… I’m so proud of everything she’s done.”
