Photos by Eric Yap ’89
Punahou School proudly celebrates an extraordinary achievement in the literary arts, as four of the five finalists for the 2026 Hawaiʻi Youth Poet Laureate were Punahou students. Selected from across the state for the strength and originality of their poetry portfolios, seniors Safa Ahmed ’26, Miranda Yap ’26, Kaci Reyes ’26, and junior Maile Dunn ’27 exemplify the creativity and thoughtfulness fostered within the Punahou community.
At the April 16 finalist showcase, the students shared their work before a live audience in an event filmed by Nā Leo TV. The evening highlighted not only their individual talent, but also the power of youth voices to engage, inspire and reflect on the world around them.
We extend our warmest congratulations to Safa Ahmed ’26, who was named Hawaiʻi’s 2026 Youth Poet Laureate. In this role, she will serve as an ambassador for literature, literacy and civic engagement across the state. We also commend Miranda Yap ’26, who earned second place, and runners-up Kaci Reyes ’26 and Maile Dunn ’27 for their remarkable accomplishments.
Mahalo to these student poets for representing Punahou with excellence and heart. Their achievements are a testament to their dedication, their passion for storytelling, and the enduring impact of the written word.