During the last week before break, UISG Secondary Division transformed into a vibrant hub of rhythm, rhyme, and raw emotion. Mr. Edward Steele designed the inaugural ACAMIS Poetry Slam, a landmark event that brought together young voices from across the region for a day of linguistic celebration. At the heart of this event was a very special guest: Australian rapper, poet, writer, and educator, Xannon Shirley, known professionally as The Tongue.

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The journey began before the main event, as The Tongue integrated himself into the daily life of our High School. He conducted intensive workshops with our Language and Literature English students, diving deep into the mechanics of performance poetry. But he didn’t just teach; he listened. In a unique collaborative effort, The Tongue worked with our students to recreate an unofficial “Utahloy Anthem.” This piece wasn’t just a song; it was a mirror reflecting the lived experiences of our student body, crafted entirely through their voices and insights.  

The day commenced with masterclasses delivered by The Tongue and UISG’s own published poet and educator, Edward Steele. These sessions set the stage for the afternoon’s competition, where over 35 students took to the microphone. The atmosphere was electric, charged with the nervous excitement of artistic vulnerability. Whether performing as soloists or in impressively coordinated team acts, each student offered a unique interpretation and delivery. The range of topics was as diverse as the student body itself, covering themes of advocacy, identity, frustration, and joy.

The main event saw UISG host the first-ever ACAMISポエトリー・スラム, welcoming representation from The International School of Macau, Shekou International School, QSI International School of Zhuhai, and Yew Wah International Education School of Guangzhou (YWIES).

The impact on our students was profound. For many, the Slam was not just a competition, but a pivotal moment of personal growth and connection. Ombeline (G12) expressed her gratitude for the mentorship, stating, “I felt really grateful to have the opportunity to work with someone who inspires me, and I got to develop my skills much more and learn many new skills — thanks to Xannon (The Tongue) and the poetry competition.” 

Ombeline (G12)
ACAMIS Poetry Slam Competition

The event also served as a powerful catalyst for self-expression, particularly for those who often shy away from the spotlight. Xarina (G12), who was named the Runner-Up in the High School Division, shared how the experience broadened her horizons: “I think that I’m a very nervous person, or I’m very self-conscious about my own poetry and my own work… but getting to be at the ACAMIS Poetry Slam and see so many different students express poetry in their own way — I would have never thought to change my style the way some of the other students interpreted theirs. And I heard some incredible poems that just blew my mind. One even made me cry.” 

Xarina (G12)

The sentiment of unity through diversity was echoed by Margot (G11), who found inspiration in the collective passion of her peers: “I found the Poetry Slam very inspiring — to see so many students come together and display their passion. Everyone had very different poems about very different topics… And it was really interesting to see how different everyone’s expression was.”

Margot (G11)

Of course, taking the stage requires immense courage. As Avery (G11) candidly put it, “It was very terrifying, but… thankfully, we only had to do one.” Yet, that single performance represents a leap of faith that defines the UISG spirit.

Avery (G11)

The inaugural ACAMIS Poetry Slam was a resounding success, proving that when we give students a platform, they move us with their wisdom and their words. Thank you to all the schools who embraced the opportunity to try something different. We can’t wait to visit one of your campuses next year and build on this momentum. 

Are you interested in learning more about the passionate educators at UISG who champion these opportunities? Speak to one of our admissions team today to discover how our dedicated faculty can inspire your children to find their voice, push their boundaries, and step confidently onto the world stage.

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