Anna Capelle
Anna Capelle is a two-time Youth Poet Laureate. She currently holds the title for the state of Connecticut. In 2024, she was awarded the city of New Haven title by the Yale Literary Magazine. She has performed frequently in the community, the Resnick Aspen Action Forum twice, and competed at Brave New Voices on The Word’s 2024 and 2025 CT slam teams. During her tenure, she has hosted workshops and online slam competitions. Anna was selected to commemorate Dr. Elizabeth Alexander at the 38th Aspen Institute Annual Awards Dinner. She is an African-American Writers’ Alliance member. Anna is published in and was previously the poetry editor of Daystar, Hopkins School literary magazine. Anna is deeply passionate about cultivating diverse spaces, encouraging authenticity, and spreading light and love.
Interview Summary
Young Poet Finds Her Voice: A Story of Courage and Community
Anna Capelle never imagined her poetry would fill rooms and inspire others. Growing up in Connecticut, she wrote quietly, keeping her words close to her heart. But everything changed when her aunt invited her to an open mic night in 2021.
"I was nervous," Anna recalls. "My hands were shaking. I didn't know if my poetry was good enough." But something remarkable happened that night. When she spoke her first lines, she discovered the power of her own voice.
As a biracial African American woman, Anna understands the importance of storytelling. She believes sharing personal experiences can break down barriers and create understanding. "It's so important to tell our stories," she says. "Especially for African Americans, we need to show that while challenges exist, we won't let them restrict us. There's so much hope and brilliance in our community."
Anna's passion for poetry led her to join a performance group called "the word" and compete in national spoken word festivals. She discovered a community that celebrated creativity and supported young artists. Through poetry, she learned that every voice matters and that fear doesn't have to stop you from sharing your truth.
Her message to young people is clear and powerful: Follow your passions, no matter what they are. "Don't let anyone tell you your dreams are too big," she advises. "There are spaces and people who want to see you succeed."
For Anna, poetry is more than words on a page. It's a way to give voice to those who feel silenced, a tool for connection, and a path to understanding different perspectives. She sees her writing as a bridge—connecting experiences, communities, and hearts.
Today, Anna studies English and psychology at the University of Vermont, continuing to write, perform, and inspire. Her journey shows that when young people embrace their unique voices and support each other, incredible things can happen.
"You shouldn't ever feel like you have to shrink yourself," Anna says. "Your story matters."