Tobago Poets Seek National Slam Glory

March 26, 2026 — The hunt for the 2026 National Poetry Slam title is heating up, and Tobago’s finest are ready to take the stage. This Sunday, March 29, the semifinals kick off at the Central Bank Auditorium in Port of Spain, featuring a strong contingent of sister-isle talent determined to bring the crown back to Tobago.

After a rigorous weekend of auditions held across the nation—including a dedicated leg at the Scarborough Library—18 contenders have emerged to face off in the “microphone trenches.” Among the selected poets is a “potent and powerful” group from Tobago, including Rickibah Isaac, Cheyenne Calliste, and Kyla Wilson, who are all carrying the island’s hopes into the penultimate round of competition.

Tobago’s Rising Stars

The 2026 cohort represents a blend of youth and seasoned performance. Ten-year-old history-maker Markus Wylie, who became the youngest-ever semifinalist in 2024, has continued to inspire a new wave of young Tobago voices. This year, the focus remains on storytelling that addresses both the personal and the political, with the Tobago contingent expected to deliver pieces reflecting the island’s unique socio-cultural landscape.

The Road to the Grand Slam

The 18 semifinalists are vying for one of the coveted spots in the Grand Slam Final, scheduled for May 3 at Sound Forge. The stakes are high, with a total prize pool that offers $25,000 to the eventual champion.