West High’s Josie Nabhan-Warren Named Iowa Poet Ambassador

BREAKING NEWS: Josie Nabhan-Warren, a junior at West High School, has been officially named the 2026-27 Iowa Student Poet Ambassador, a prestigious role that empowers her to represent young writers across the state. This announcement was made on February 27, and it marks a significant milestone for the aspiring poet as she steps into a position that celebrates creativity and expression.

The selection involved a rigorous process where a panel of professional poets evaluated candidates’ work and conducted interviews. Nabhan-Warren is the sixth student ambassador chosen for this role, and she will officially take over from Daniel Somotochukwu Umemezie of Cedar Falls High School on April 24. This opportunity not only highlights her talent but also showcases the growing importance of poetry among youth in Iowa.

Nabhan-Warren expressed her excitement, stating, “It means that I have so many more opportunities to keep progressing as a writer and a poet.” As the ambassador, she will be actively involved in poetry events and initiatives aimed at connecting with young writers throughout Iowa.

The Iowa Student Poet Ambassador Program was launched in 2021, inspired by the national attention given to poet Amanda Gorman during the inauguration of former President Joe Biden. The program’s coordinator, Jan Warren, noted the increasing recognition of poetry as a powerful medium for youth expression, saying, “People realized poetry exists and that it can be a powerful and attractive medium for young people.”

Nabhan-Warren’s journey into poetry began with diary entries, evolving into a deeper exploration of her thoughts through verse. She aims to use poetry as a tool for understanding both herself and the world around her. “If I ever have an experience that I’m trying to decipher in my mind, it really helps me to just write it down,” she explained.

This summer, she will have the unique opportunity to interview authors featured in Iowa’s summer reading program, including titles like “Strong Like You” by T.L. Simpson and “The Trouble with Heroes” by Kate Messer. Additionally, Nabhan-Warren plans to travel to various cities, including Iowa City, Perry, and Des Moines, to read her poetry and engage with audiences.

Her work is deeply inspired by personal experiences, often reflecting themes of love, friendship, and the complexities of youth. Nabhan-Warren draws creative influence from various sources, including the poetry of Mary Oliver and the impactful lyrics of rapper Tupac.

As an ambassador, Nabhan-Warren hopes to encourage other young people to express themselves through poetry, particularly in a world where vulnerability can be daunting. She stated, “For young people especially, it’s hard to express yourself when you’re so afraid of what people think of you. But I think poetry is just really honest.”

Nabhan-Warren’s recognition as Iowa’s Poet Ambassador not only elevates her own career but also underscores the importance of artistic expression in building empathy and understanding in communities. Her ambitions and the impact of her work will resonate throughout Iowa, inspiring the next generation of poets.

Stay tuned for updates on her upcoming events and initiatives as she takes on this vital role in promoting poetry and young voices across the state.