The District of Tofino is pleased to announce the appointment of Kaela Aryn as Tofino’s Poet Laureate for the 2026–2028 term.

The Poet Laureate is appointed by Council based on a recommendation from the Events, Arts, Culture, and Heritage Committee. The role acts as an ambassador for literacy and the arts in the community through poetry that celebrates, commemorates, and reflects on significant local events, places, and experiences.

Kaela is a multidisciplinary artist, performer, and creative educator who has contributed to the community through theatre, dance, spoken-word poetry, and youth arts programming.

The District would also like to thank outgoing Poet Laureate Janice Lore for her many contributions during her 2024–2026 term, including community poetry events and the recent Fantastic Ekphrastic Tofino project inspired by Tofino’s public art.

Both Kaela and Janice will present to Council at the May 12, 2026, Regular Council Meeting. The public is welcome to attend in person or watch online.

To learn more about Kaela and the Tofino Poet Laureate program, visit www.tofino.ca/poet-laureate