Teen Voices Light Up Q.E.D. Astoria at Poetry Reading and Anthology Launch

ASTORIA, NY — On Saturday, June 14, teen poets from all five boroughs took center stage at Q.E.D. Astoria for Teen Voices from the 5 Boros, a powerful afternoon of poetry, community, and celebration hosted by local nonprofit Projekt NYC. The event marked the official launch of the new youth poetry anthology, Teen Voices from the 5 Boros, which features nearly 100 original poems selected from over 1,500 submissions by high school students across New York City.

The event brought together over 35 student poets, many of whom performed their work publicly for the first time. Reading from the anthology or sharing new pieces, these young writers spoke to themes of identity, resilience, activism, and the changing landscapes of their neighborhoods. Their words were met with enthusiastic snaps and applause from a packed room of family members, educators, and supporters.

“This book is a love letter to the city, from the voices who are living it in real time,” said Ted Psahos, Executive Director of Projekt NYC. “To hear these students take the mic and speak their truth with such honesty and heart, there’s nothing more powerful.”

The evening was hosted in partnership with Q.E.D. Astoria, who generously donated their space and welcomed teens who represented all five boroughs into their new chapter under the leadership of owner Hannah Lieberman.

“We were so proud to host this incredible group of young artists and their families,” Lieberman shared. “Q.E.D. has always been about connection and creativity, and this event captured both in such a moving way.”

Copies of Teen Voices from the 5 Boros are now available on Amazon. All proceeds support Projekt NYC’s free youth programs in creative outlets, civic engagement, and volunteerism throughout the five boroughs.To purchase the book, search “Teen Voices from the 5 Boros” on Amazon or visit https://tinyurl.com/projektnycpoetry.

About Q.E.D. AstoriaQ.E.D. is a community performance and event space located in Astoria, Queens. Hosting stand-up comedy, storytelling, poetry, and classes for all ages, Q.E.D. is a creative home for artists, educators, and neighbors alike. Under the new ownership of Hannah Lieberman, Q.E.D. continues its mission to provide an inclusive platform for local voices and a gathering space for community connection.

About Projekt NYCProjekt NYC is a Queens-based nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering middle and high school students through creativity, community service, and civic engagement. From publishing teen anthologies and organizing youth entrepreneurship markets to leading volunteer cleanups and financial literacy programs, Projekt NYC creates meaningful opportunities for young people to grow, lead, and shine.

For more information or to support Projekt NYC’s work, visit www.projektnyc.org.