Victoria’s Youth Poet Laureate is shining a light on intergenerational trauma and the connections of Indigenous people through her poems.
Shauntelle (Huupʔaqsa, TSAYŁE) Dick-Charleson, 23, has been writing poetry for seven years. She started writing in Grade 10 English class at Reynolds Secondary School but didn’t truly connect with her writing until she wrote a poem called “I Was There.”
“That poem was about being present—in spirit—when my grandparents were in residential school. It touched on intergenerational trauma and the deep connections we carry as Indigenous people,” says Dick-Charleson.
“Writing became something I needed to do—a way to educate others, to process my own experiences and to share what it’s like to be an Indigenous woman in this world.”
Her poetry explores a wide range of topics: the impacts of residential schools, Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women (MMIW), intergenerational trauma and heartbreak, mixed with some lighthearted pieces (like the one about being a lonely pinecone).
Dick-Charleson was named Victoria’s Youth Poet Laureate in March, along with the Poet Laureate Kyeren Regehr.
“(It) is such an honour—and being the first Indigenous person to receive the title means even more,” she says.
“I hope it shows younger Indigenous generations that their voices matter, and that they can express themselves in powerful ways outside of sports or traditional expectations. My grandfather, Skip Dick, once told me he wrote poetry during his time in residential school and hearing him say he’s proud of what I’m doing now means the world to me.”
Poet Laureates serve as literary ambassadors, sparking creativity and meaningful conversation across the city. As Youth Poet Laureate, Dick-Charleson’s role involves attending City Hall meetings where she performs poems, creates her own events and connects with the community through the arts.
“It’s a position that allows me to both represent youth voices and bring poetry into civic spaces in a meaningful way,” she says.
The chance to use poetry to make an impact, especially as an Indigenous youth, was something she says she couldn’t pass up.
“We’re delighted to have the talents of Kyeren and Shauntelle representing the City as Poet Laureates,” said Victoria Mayor Marianne Alto.
“I look forward to seeing their work inspire and connect residents of all ages through the power of poetry.”
Dick-Charleson shares her poetry through spoken-word events, poetry slams, school performances and online. She’s also been hired to perform at community gatherings and cultural events.
“For me, poetry—especially as an Indigenous poet—is about keeping storytelling alive,” she says.
“It’s about creating space for truth, for emotion and for people to speak openly and honestly. It’s not just about performance; it’s about connection. And while I focus on Indigenous identity and struggle, I also emphasize the beauty of being Indigenous. After many performances, I’ve had people tell me, ‘I didn’t know that about Indigenous people.’ That’s why I keep going—because awareness starts with stories.”
She says if someone is thinking about trying poetry but isn’t sure where to start, she encourages them to be open to it.
“Try some writing prompts, give yourself time and don’t worry about perfection,” she adds.
“It takes time to find your voice and to feel confident performing. I’ve had so many mentors along the way who helped guide me, and I wouldn’t be where I am without them.
“There’s so much in life you can explore—and poetry is just one way to understand yourself and others better. There are so many different voices and styles out there—poetry really does mean something different to everyone, and that’s what makes it powerful.”
