Stratford Poet Laureate

This program aims to celebrate and elevate the literary arts through written and spoken word.

The program will collect, save, and share unique stories from Stratford and the surrounding area. These stories reflect our community's character, both now and for years to come.

The Poet Laureate writes poetry about the area, composes poems for special events, participates in public performances, works with local poets and writers, and acts as a literary ambassador for the city and the region. The work of the Poet Laureate culminates with the creation of a legacy project which is a unique and lasting contribution to the community.

This inaugural Stratford Poet Laureate program is a three-year pilot project (January 2025 to December 2027) by Destination Stratford and Stratford Public Library, and is formally recognized by City of Stratford Council via the Community Services department.

David Stones, Poet Laureate 2025-2028 David Stones is a multi-award winning, multi-Pushcart Prize-nominated poet and performer with 500+ poems in print throughout Canada and internationally, and a growing roster of stage shows featuring his poetry, lyrics and musical adaptations of his work. He is a proud member of League of Canadian Poets, The Canadian Poets Society, New Generation Beat Poets Scene Canada, and Poetry Stratford. Sign out his published works here.

Arlo Dunnem, Youth Poet Laureate 2026-2027 Arlo J. Dunnem is a 16 year old, born and raised in Stratford. In 2026, Arlo won the Gold Key for the Region-at- Large Scholastic Arts and Writing Competition and his poem is up for the National Award in the Scholastic Arts and Writing Competition. Arlo is extremely involved in the community and has taken great initiative with founding and captaining school clubs, such as Model United Nations, Ancient History Club, and Romance Languages Club. He is Students Council Vice-President, on the Legal Team, and a member of the Debate Club. Arlo plays on the Varsity Tennis Team and outside school enjoys golf, sailing, polo, and snowboarding.