In 2017, more than 60 youngsters from ages 11 to 14 applied to join the Junior Writers Programme 2018. The application involved submitting a story written by them. There were stories about friendship, crime, relationships, family and even outer space. Some were accompanied by delightful hand-drawn illustrations.

From the pool, only 20 were chosen to attend classes for seven months, where they learnt about plot, introduction, drama, suspense, humour, dialogue, words, descriptions, conclusion and editing. In those seven months, these youngsters have blossomed into fine writers, often taking my breath away with their wit, storylines, and choice of words.

All 20 young writers have great potential to go far. Learning how to write a story and the art of storytelling will serve them well regardless of which industry they choose to work in eventually.
Storytelling is a tool that is fast gaining acceptance as the way into people’s minds and hearts in all industries, and for many purposes. The young writers have put much thought and effort into their stories. Their talent speaks volumes.