Saanich, BC – The District is thrilled to share that two poets have been selected to represent Saanich through poetry, spoken word, and the literary arts.

Community Poet Jesse Holth and Community Youth Poet Bennett Gilleland were chosen through the District’s inaugural Community Poets Program. In their roles, the community poets will support public poetry readings, creative projects, and community engagement initiatives that bring poetry into everyday spaces.

Holth is a writer, editor, and poet whose work explores ecology, health and misogyny, and social justice. Holth’s work reflects on the natural world as a space for connection, reflection, and action. As Community Poet, Holth will provide community readings and creative projects that foster curiosity, empathy, and connection.

Gilleland is focused on creating space for young poets to share their work, develop skills, and connect with the poetry community. As Community Youth Poet, Gilleland will lead workshops and readings, as well as a project exploring and commemorating queer history. Gilleland looks forward to being a welcoming face at poetry events and youth-focused initiatives.

“Congratulations to our two inaugural Community Poets! I am excited to have more poetry incorporated into our community and I look forward to seeing how their work shapes Saanich arts and culture,” said Councillor Colin Plant, Chair of Saanich’s Arts, Culture & Community Wellbeing Advisory Committee. “This new program brings forward a Council-supported initiative from a previous budget cycle and will encourage creativity and connection through poetry.” 

Holth will serve a two-year term as Community Poet and Gilleland will serve a one-year term as Youth Community Poet. You can find them at various Saanich events this year, including our upcoming Earth Day Festival on April 18, 2026!

“Congratulations to the Community Poet and Community Youth Poet on their selection. Public libraries value poetry as one of the most accessible ways for people to share experiences and make sense of the world. It helps people connect, and we are pleased to see local voices supported and shared through this program,” said April Ripley, Library Service Librarian, Greater Victoria Public Library.

Learn more:
The Community Poets were selected through a competitive application process that was reviewed by a selection committee. Candidates were evaluated based on artistic practice, community engagement experience, and ideas for connecting with Saanich residents through poetry. Read more on our website.

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Media contact:
Saanich Communications
media@saanich.ca