High school student honored with title of Houston's 'Youth Poet Laureate'

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- It's a special honor for a high school junior who was recently named as the city of Houston's "Youth Poet Laureate."

Fareena Arefeen, 17, says she prefers to write instead of participating in other teenage activities.

She beat out 40 other Houston-area students for the title of "Youth Poet Laureate." She wrote five poems, including one about her meaning of Houston.

"I feel like it's a really fantastic way of release," Arefeen said.

She says she owes a lot of her talent and success to her mother, who is also an artist.

After immigrating from Bangladesh, Arefeen's mother continues to work at a gas station to support her family. Her dedication seems to be a driving force for her children.

"She's such a strong woman and everyday I am just so thankful I have her in life," Arefeen added.