Call for poetry and lyrics submissions to the 10th Beyond Borders

PRESS RELEASE
10th Beyond Borders
Kastellorizo International Documentary Festival
August 24-31, 2025

Beyond Borders 2025: Poetry & Lyric Writing Competition Inspired by Kastellorizo

Beyond Borders – Kastellorizo International Documentary Festival returns in August 2025 for its 10th anniversary edition, introducing a new and unique initiative that merges the power of words and art with cultural heritage, marking a decade since the Festival’s inception.

Under the title “Kastellorizo: Reflections”, this year’s competition, dedicated to poetry and lyric writing, invites young creators to express their thoughts, emotions, and imagination. Drawing inspiration from the island’s history, traditions, customs, and the notion of “frontier identity” that defines Kastellorizo, participants are encouraged to convey, through language, the island’s uniqueness and cultural richness.

Strategic Partner

Beyond Borders’ Strategic Partner is PPC (Public Power Corporation), the leading energy company in Southeastern Europe, which actively supports the arts and culture. As an integral part of Greece’s social and economic fabric, PPC fosters a continuous dialogue with culture and art, supporting all initiatives that lead us toward a better future—one where culture takes center stage.

Competition Theme

Submissions should highlight the cultural identity of Kastellorizo and its connection to history, customs, and traditions. Participants may submit either poems (metrical or free verse) or song lyrics, fostering a dialogue between lyricism and melody.

Keti Araitzopoulou Sarioglou Award

The Keti Araitzopoulou Sarioglou Award, dedicated to the memory of the esteemed philologist, will be presented to a creator who bridges the worlds of art and history.

The winner, to be announced at the Closing Ceremony of the Festival on August 31, 2025, will have the unique opportunity to see their work set to music by an acclaimed composer and musician. The resulting song will serve as a tribute to Kastellorizo, showcasing the timeless power of art in uniting generations, peoples, and memories.

This award honors Keti Araitzopoulou Sarioglou’s legacy in promoting the Greek language and cultural heritage, preserving creative expression as a means of connection and dialogue.

Jury Panel

The winner will be selected by a distinguished jury, chaired by philologist Giorgos Koutalas. The jury will evaluate submissions based on originality, aesthetic merit, and relevance to the theme.

Submissions & Eligibility

  • The competition is open to creators from Greece and abroad.
  • Submissions will be accepted from February 3 to May 30, 2025.
  • Each participant may submit one original and unpublished work.

Competition Goals

Through this initiative, Beyond Borders aims to:

  • Promote literature and music as carriers of culture and identity, expanding the Festival’s cultural scope.
  • Highlight Kastellorizo’s significance as a source of inspiration and a symbol of timelessness.
  • Create a platform where the new generation of creators can find their voice and gain international exposure.

How to Participate

Interested participants should submit their works via email to info@beyondborders.gr, with the subject line: REFLECTIONS 2025 – PARTICIPANT’S FULL NAME.

Additional Information

Festival photos can be found here.

For more information, visit www.beyondborders.gr or contact the Festival at info@beyondborders.gr. Stay updated on all Beyond Borders events and news by following the Festival on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and LinkedIn.

Organizers

The Hellenic History Foundation (IDISME), in collaboration with the French organization Ecrans des Mondes, proudly organizes the 10th Beyond Borders Kastellorizo International Documentary Festival.

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