Youth from our Leaders in Training programs explored poetry and storytelling through Step Into Stories, a creative writing program run with Republic of Childhood, an initiative of the Ottawa International Writers Festival.

Over ten weeks, LITs wrote poems and short stories in a safe, welcoming space, guided by an experienced writer and supported by volunteers. The program ended with a “coffee house” celebration where youth shared their work with family and friends and their writing was collected into a book of poems.

During the celebration, three participants—Nafesa, Myla, and Ava—were recognized for their impressive poetry. Selected by program facilitator Khaleefa Hamdan, they were each awarded a generous gift from the Ottawa International Writers Festival, a Patron Pass granting them access to Festival events for the entire year.

In addition, every kid received free admission to Ottawa Writers Festival writing workshops for the next year, giving them even more opportunities to continue exploring creative writing.

We thank Khaleefa Hamdan for leading the program, and Neil and Thea from the Ottawa International Writers Festival for their generous support.

Read the full poetry collection.