Rooted Narratives: The Storytellers Initiative

A full-day literary storytelling experience for writers under 35 exploring voice, identity, culture, faith, language, migration, and memory Every person carries a story. Our histories, languages, cultures, faith traditions, memories, and lived experiences shape how we see the world and how we tell our stories. Yet many young people have limited opportunities to explore and share these stories in spaces that fully affirm the richness and complexity of who they are. If you're under 35 and interested in writing, storytelling, or creative expression, join us on November 7, 2026 for a day of inspiring workshops designed to help you discover, develop, and preserve your literary voice. Throughout the day, participants will engage in four interactive workshops exploring: • Finding and preserving your literary and creative voice • Translation, language, and storytelling across cultures • Faith, spirituality, and sacred storytelling as sources of literary inspiration • Migration, memory, identity, and personal narrative Through writing exercises, discussions, reflection, and creative exploration, participants will gain practical tools and insights to deepen their storytelling practice while connecting with fellow emerging writers. This initiative creates an intentional, culturally affirming space where young people can invest in their voices, claim their stories, and explore experiences rooted in culture, faith, migration, language, and identity. Whether you write poetry, fiction, essays, memoir, or are simply curious about storytelling, this event invites you to explore your experiences with honesty, creativity, and confidence. Join us as we celebrate the power of storytelling and support the next generation of writers in telling their stories on their own terms. Hosted by the Muslim Literary Festival, this event welcomes participants from all backgrounds, faiths, cultures, and levels of writing experience. Whether you're an established writer, an aspiring storyteller, or simply someone with a story to tell, we invite you to join us for a day of learning, reflection, and creative exploration. We are committed to making this event as financially accessible as possible. If financial barriers may prevent you from attending, please contact [email protected] to discuss available supports. Lunch and refreshments will be provided. Join us as we celebrate the power of storytelling and support the next generation of writers in telling their stories on their own terms.