Emerge—Surface—Be is a natural extension of The Poetry Project’s program offerings. It formalizes the distinct yet unspoken pedagogical aspect of The Poetry Project’s programs while providing a unique opportunity to support, develop, and present emerging NYC-based poets.

Mentors Anne Boyer, Julian T. Brolaski, aracelis girmay, Shiv Kotecha, and Fargo Nissim Tbakhi have each selected an emerging poet to work with. Over the course of nine months, Fellows will be given the opportunity to work one-on-one with their Mentor to develop their craft; explore publication and performance opportunities; and reflect on the professional and community-based dimensions of a writing life. Meetings between Fellows and Mentors can take place both in-person and virtually.

Ideal Fellows will have a project they are working on (or want to embark upon) and/or are working towards new ways of envisioning and bringing forth their writing practice and feel that they would benefit from guidance and support. Each Fellow will receive an award of $3,000. In adherence with US tax requirements, ESB Fellows will be issued an IRS 1099 Form.

In addition to working with their Mentors, Fellows will:

• have access to all Poetry Project events (free workshops, free readings, free publications)
• be included in the Annual New Year’s Day Marathon Reading
• read within The Poetry Project’s 2026 Spring Season as a culminating event, with introductions made by their Mentors

Poetry Project staff and Mentors will work with each Fellow to find other unique opportunities for deepening, sharing, and connecting their poetry to specific goals the Fellows might have. Through the program, Fellows will be invited to attend various gatherings with Poetry Project staff and other 2025–2026 Fellows and Mentors.