Bringing together four inspiring writers for the first time; MARYAM HAMIDI, RAISAH AHMED, HANNAH LAVERY, AND TAWONA SITHOLE.
ABOUT THE PROJECT
The Bijli New Writers Project is an initiative to support the creative expression and skills of underrepresented communities in Scotland.
This project worked with 115 people at the very early stages of their writing journey. Participants had access to a series of engaging and accessible digital writing classes, peer support and network outreach. The digital classes were followed by weekly group mentoring sessions delivered by professional Scottish or Scotland-based writers from diverse backgrounds, including Tawona Sithole and our very own Mariem Omari. Participants also received individual 1-2-1s to help further develop their own work.
The digital writing classes focus on writing for the stage or screen, and explore topics such as: how to become a writer, voice, and the process of writing. Created in consultation with our communities, the classes were designed by Digital Designer and Social Media Coordinator, Leila Talmadge and supported by writer/ director, and Bijli Associate, Stephen Barnes.
"We need more storytellers that reflect the diversity of Scotland and the world we live in. By creating a highly accessible writing course and program, we want to break down barriers and increase the breadth of voices in the arts in Scotland," - said Artistic Director of Bijli, Mariem Omari
Feedback
- 100% experienced no access issues to the course
- 100% felt the teachers were enthusiastic and encouraging
- 100% of participants would recommend the course to others
- 75% of participants felt having completed the course they were more confident as a writer
- 67% of participants since doing the course have written things that they otherwise would not have
New writer Testimonials
“It was the fact it said new writers and that meant no pressure… Something about minorities, or their voices, and that made me feel it would be a safe space where I’d be understood and accepted.”
“…it was about unlocking parts of yourself – some was practical advice, and some was reflective, and the exercises were trying to use your experiences and unlock your creativity, so quite different. I never thought about writing in those terms… that everyone has a story and a voice, and these terms were all new to me really.”
“The tutors created the loveliest, safest atmosphere I’ve ever experienced in a writer workshop and that I so appreciated - so a massive thank you to them.”
“Writing can be a lonely, solitary pursuit so having the solidarity of the group was a really uplifting part of my week and protected my creative wellbeing.”