Liyann Alrayashi Named New Westwood Youth Poet Laureate

As of July 1, Westwood has a new Youth Poet Laureate - Liyann Alrayashi, a rising sophomore at Westwood High School. Her selection was announced at Westwood Select Board's June 22 meeting by Library Director Elizabeth McGovern and Westwood Poet Laureate Beth Swinning. Her appointment was approved by Westwood Select Board moments later.

Liyann's first foray into publicly sharing her poetry was in May, as a participant at the 5th Annual Westwood High School Teen Poetry Slam, where she won second place. She is described as drawing inspiration from music, nature, and everyday life, and as having an interest in visual arts, which she often mixes with her poetry.

Liyann steps into the role most recently held by Charles Goodman, who was Westwood's Youth Poet Laureate for 2025-2026.

Thanks to Westwood Public Library for sharing its news with Westwood Minute.

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