- Salome Agbaroji, the 2023/2024 U.S. National Youth Poet Laureate, returned to Nigeria to strengthen cultural ties between the U.S. and Nigeria through her impactful poetry. Known for her captivating performances at the White House, the United Nations, and the Golden Globes Pre-Show, Agbaroji embarked on a nine-day cultural exchange tour as part of the U.S. Department of State’s Arts Envoy Program.
A first-year Harvard student, Agbaroji explored themes of identity, heritage, and empowerment in her work. From July 21 to 29, she visited her ancestral roots in Enugu and Lagos.
In Enugu, Agbaroji delved into her Igbo heritage at the Centre for Memories, a cultural institution preserving Igbo history. She conducted a poetry workshop at the University of Nigeria’s Window on America, inspiring young poets and creatives. This was followed by discussions with Enugu’s creative community, where her poetry sparked meaningful dialogues on cultural preservation.
In Lagos, Agbaroji engaged with young poets and spoken word artists through workshops at the University of Lagos and a high school poetry slam competition. A standout moment was her moderated conversation with Deborah Johnson, the 2022 Lagos International Poetry Festival Slam Champion. The event featured poetry recitations and an open mic session, highlighting the collaboration between Nigerian and American poets.
Audiences in both cities, including students, arts professors, and poets, were deeply moved by Agbaroji’s work. Her ability to connect with the Nigerian experience while offering a global perspective left a lasting impression, motivating participants to pursue their creative passions with renewed energy.
Reflecting on her visit, Agbaroji expressed her appreciation for the chance to engage with Nigeria’s vibrant arts community.
“I’m thankful to have had the opportunity to visit Nigeria for the first time through the Arts Envoy Program,” she said.
“Watching a participant start a poem during our workshop, collaborate with others, and then perform it live at our open mic night was incredibly uplifting.”
Julie McKay, the U.S. Consulate’s Public Affairs Officer, emphasized the significance of cultural exchanges such as Ms Agbaroji’s visit, noting their role in fostering mutual understanding and freedom of expression.
“One of the most empowering opportunities we can offer young people is a platform where their voices can be heard,” McKay remarked. “Poetry is an inspiring platform for youths to express their creativity and sense of self.”
Ms Agbaroji’s visit is part of the U.S. Mission in Nigeria’s broader effort to build deeper connections between Americans and Nigerians.
Through these cultural exchanges, the U.S. Mission aims to encourage collaboration and exchange of ideas between the two nations, enriching both cultures in the process.
