Eighth Grader Honored at Hudson Valley Writers Center

A writer’s voice is a unique instrument; it can convey complex emotions, uncover truths and—sometimes—advocate for change. 

Defne Akinci is proof of just how powerful that instrument can be. 

On Sept. 10, Akinci—an eighth grader at Eastchester Middle School—was honored for her work at the Youth Environmental Writing Contest Reading and Reception held at the Hudson Valley Writers Center in Sleepy Hollow.

Her poem Changes was selected as a winner in the Westchester Writ­ers Ex­press Youth En­vi­ron­men­tal Cre­ative Writ­ing Con­test—a competition that challenges young writers to investigate the world around them with a critical eye. Akinci’s piece, which focused on both the physical and existential effects of climate change, was one of three middle school submissions chosen for this honor. Akinci said that getting the chance to read her poem aloud in front of other award-winners was both an affirming and humbling experience. 

“It was really exciting,” said Akinci. “Sometimes, I’m a little awkward when I’m getting awards, but I wasn’t really scared or worried about it. It was really an honor because my friends and family were there in the audience.”

Akinci is a prolific writer—she noted that she actually penned four poems to submit to the contest before ultimately settling on Changes—who is also interested in dance, singing, and is a member of the EMS Players Club. She explained the this competition gave her a platform that allowed her to combine her passions for creativity and environmentalism.

“I’ve done so many projects on the environment, and climate change is something I’m worried about in general,” she said. “If someone is reading my poem, I want them to understand that this is an important matter and that we need to take care of the Earth.”

EMS Principal Madelin LoBue was at Thursday night’s function to support her student and said that while Akinci’s talent is certainly undeniable, it is her ability to think about and engage with the world beyond the walls of Eastchester Middle School that make her such a terrific example for other students. 

“As an educator here, it’s beautiful to see our students implement the skills that our faculty works so hard to teach them, take those skills into the community, and explore opportunities to highlight their talents outside of school,” said LoBue. “The Hudson Valley Writers Center really supports young writers, which is nice to see, and we would certainly support future students that may be interested in exploring writing contests and new ways to express themselves outside of the school district.”

Defne’s poem Changes can be found on the Hudson Valley Writers Center website HERE.