On March 3rd and 10th, I had the privilege of attending the Speaking Our Truth writer’s workshop hosted by St. Elmo Village, a non-profit organization that fosters the arts in West Los Angeles. The event centered around topics such as social justice, cultural diversity, intergenerational connections, and community relationships, where writers from all walks of life came together to share their truths. 

During the workshop, I was fortunate to participate in several classes that challenged my writing skills and sparked a personal transformation. The screenwriting class, led by the insightful Rene Rawls, was a revelation. I discovered new ways to build a character’s journey, forever altering how I view films. Dorothy Randall Gray’s ‘Buttons’ class was equally enlightening. Her unique approach to storytelling, based on random buttons, encouraged me to express myself more freely in my writing and life, leaving me with a renewed sense of inspiration and a desire for self-discovery. 

The second weekend was just as impactful as the first. Poet and vegan chef V. Kali’s class focused on Poetry. She led an exercise on writing about the color blue, which helped me structure an entire poem, something I hadn’t done in years. Shonda Buchanan, whose work dissects her experience as a Black and Indian woman, led a class to analyze Luis J Rodriguez’s poem “Watts Bleeds” and inspired us to create poems or memoirs. 

This workshop was a powerful testament to the transformative power of creativity. The vibrant energy of the talented and passionate participants rekindled my love for writing and reminded me of my initial spark. I left the workshop inspired, energized, and rejuvenated, with a renewed commitment to my craft. If you’re seeking a place to reignite your creative spark and connect with like-minded individuals, this workshop is a must-attend for the rejuvenation and reenergizing it offers.

The Speaking Our Truth writer’s workshop at St. Elmo Village was an unforgettable experience that inspired and empowered me. Through the classes and writing exercises, I was challenged to dig deeper into my writing and explore new ways of expressing myself. The instructors were knowledgeable and passionate about their craft, and their teachings will stay with me for a long time. Being surrounded by such creative and talented individuals was a transformative experience that rekindled my love for writing. I left the workshop feeling energized and renewed, with a newfound commitment to my craft. If you’re looking for inspiration and a supportive community to help you grow as a writer, I recommend attending this workshop in the future.