Queer Youth Writing Workshop Fosters Creativity and Community in Nepal

On April 25th, a creative writing workshop called 'A Room of One's Own' brought together 16 aspiring queer writers in Lalitpur, Nepal. The event, organized by United Nations Nepal and Katha Satha, aimed to provide a supportive community for the participants to explore their writing and share their experiences.

The workshop drew inspiration from a previous 10-day writing residency where writers created a DIY zine. During the 'A Room of One's Own' workshop, participants were encouraged to write about their childhood memories and experiences related to specific spaces. The organizers nurtured a calm, kind, and non-toxic atmosphere, which the participants expressed was essential for their open participation.

One of the key aspects of the workshop was the sense of community it provided for the queer youth. By bringing together individuals with shared experiences, the event created a safe space for self-expression and exploration. The participants not only had the opportunity to develop their writing skills but also to connect with others who understood their unique perspectives.

Why this matters: Workshops like 'A Room of One's Own' play a critical role in empowering marginalized communities and amplifying their voices. By providing a platform for queer youth to express themselves through writing, such initiatives contribute to greater visibility and understanding of LGBTQ+ experiences in society.

The success of the workshop has led to hopes for future events, with participants expressing their desire for longer or multi-day residential programs to further strengthen the writing community. "The calm, kind, and non-toxic atmosphere of the workshop was important for our open participation," shared one of the attendees, highlighting the significance of such inclusive spaces.

Key Takeaways

• Creative writing workshop for queer youth held in Lalitpur, Nepal on April 25th.
• Organized by UN Nepal and Katha Satha, aimed to provide supportive community for participants.
• Workshop encouraged writing about childhood memories and experiences related to spaces.
• Provided sense of community and safe space for self-expression for queer youth.
• Successful workshop led to hopes for future longer or multi-day residential programs.