October ’25 Poetry Contest Picture Prompt: Mirror of Hope

This month’s contest carried the reflective and inspiring theme of “Hope.”

The contest challenged each poet to write a sonnet, following these instructions:

a) 14 lines, iambic pentameter, following the ABAB CDCD EFEF GG rhyme scheme.

b) Participants must compulsorily follow @yemipoet and @yacsofoundation on Instagram.

The picture prompt for the month depicted a poor boy standing before a mirror, yet seeing in his reflection an educated man, a symbol of vision, transformation, and hope. This theme encouraged poets to explore the strength of self-belief, the courage to dream beyond their present limitations and reality, and the power of hope to reshape destinies.

The contest was officially announced at the beginning of October, with the submission deadline fixed for October 9, 2025. By the close of submissions, a total of 122 entries were received from poets across diverse backgrounds, each bringing their unique interpretation of hope to life through words.

Submission Link
All submissions were received via the official website, www.yemipoetproduction.com, as stated in the bio of the Instagram page, @yemipoet.

Evaluation Criteria
The evaluation process followed the same structure as previous contests. Each poem was assessed based on:

●      Originality and creativity

●      Adherence to the sonnet format and rhyme scheme

●      Depth of interpretation of the theme

●      Clarity of expression and emotional impact

●      Language use, structure, and titling

●      Deadline submission promptness

These criteria ensured a fair and thorough evaluation process, allowing each poet’s work to shine. After careful consideration, the contest results were announced in the following stages:

Top Thirty Poets — October 21

Top Ten Poets — October 24

Winners — October 27

Winner

First Place

Akinloye Mustapha

The Mirror Knows

Second Place

Olajuwon Joseph O.

The Audacity of Becoming

Third Place

Chimeziri Stephnie

Reflection of Becoming

Winners Award
A total of ₦80,000 was shared among the winners according to their positions.

Moral Lesson 
Transformation begins with what we choose to see and believe about ourselves. No matter where we stand today, our reflections can reveal the greatness ahead. Hope gives us the courage to imagine more, believe more, and become more, even when the present reality says otherwise.

Appreciation

To all our poets and supporters across every platform: thank you for keeping the fire of poetry alive. Your creativity made October remarkable.

See you in November!