The Mission
To establish and maintain a creative reading and writing habit amongst peers.
To use digital technology to enhance the reading and writing process.
To prioritise the reading and analysis of diverse and inclusive texts.
To support, collect and promote diverse and inclusive writing.
The Story
Creativity is something I used to lock down. After all, it took up precious time when I could be working on something more conventional. Being creative felt exciting and new, and yet I rarely allowed myself to prioritise it.
A precious opportunity during my Masters permitted a reversal of fortunes. A Technology-Enhanced Creative Writing module pushed me to think in different and more inventive ways. I began to value creative experiences for learners. And to compose short story drafts to share with my classmates.
In many ways creativity is child’s play – crafting possibilities, projecting future situations, imagining other’s experiences. Indeed, what makes us human is our imagination, our innate ability to simulate and reflect. In sum, I learnt that it’s a very human trait to create and tell stories.
I completed that module not only colourful and enjoyable memories, but new habits too – reading for inspiration, avid editing skills, confidence to present my written work. I now allow myself to read and write more, which I love but arguably don’t spend enough time doing!
Since then I have embraced:
the right to let go
the chance to be creative
the opportunity to play with words
the freedom to express myself
the possibility to tell my story
At the same time, I began to reflect on my time teaching abroad. Such privilege to travel and work in another country, be highly respected as a teacher and lauded for my accent. Yet, the discrimination against those who did not look or sound ‘native’ was palatable. And when I really looked at my teaching materials: the images, the voices, the texts, I realised I did not see myself there. In turn, I did not really see myself as part of my learner’s English journey.
The old prejudices and lack of diversity in materials showed me something was missing - a real understanding of the wide range of identities that are involved in ELT. So I decided I wanted to do something about it. I decided I wanted to literally write myself into the ELT story, and to help others do the same, too.
As the text reads on the home page: We need to tell our own stories. We need to know who we are and be proud of it. We need to communicate our needs, our values, our desires.
Hence the creation of the Share Your Story With Confidence online community and it’s practical manifestation - the new Creative Writing Club. One that aims to bring together creative enthusiasts for reading, writing and positive thinking. And whether you like to write or speak, take part in one, some or all of the opportunities this platform provides to tell your own story, the hope is not only for a beautiful collection of authentic writing, but also a feeling of stronger identity and belonging.
Sign up for a transformation that will help you:
overcome perfectionism
create a network of new connections
be more mindful
acquire new knowledge
be creative
share ideas & learn from others
enjoy life!