Big opportunities aren’t just for those peddling their pens in the big smoke. Young writers from across Australia can apply for Toolkits – a series of intensive, craft-specific online creative programs.
Running for a second season in 2023, Toolkits is a 12-week online program for creatives aged 30 and under to develop their skills, workshop their work and connect with other writers. Express Media is excited to present three streams in the upcoming season: Poetry, Graphic Narratives, and the debut of a brand new stream, Audio Storytelling.
The course includes presentations from guest artists and industry experts, the opportunity to connect with and learn from an experienced mentor, and networking with other young writers/artists/producers. Participants will contribute to a joint published outcome towards the end of the program (format to be determined by the group and facilitator).
Writers will meet digitally as a group with their facilitator fortnightly on Tuesday or Wednesdays, participating in tailored exercises designed to advance each individual’s skillset in the given craft. These meetings will foster community, encourage writers to develop a regular working practice, and open a space to receive encouragement/guidance. During the off-weeks, each cohort and their facilitator will connect and share work via a private online Discord channel, where there will be opportunities for skill-sharing and ongoing development of new work.
Throughout the season, Express Media will present six Toolkits: Live sessions, where each facilitator will sit down with guest artists and industry experts to discuss genre, industry, and tips for young creatives. These events will be streamed for free on Express Media’s YouTube channel.
Season 1 (April – July 2023)
Toolkits: Fiction
Toolkits: Nonfiction
Toolkits: Digital Storytelling
Season 2 (12 Sept – 29 Nov 2023)
Toolkits: Poetry
Toolkits: Graphic Narratives
Toolkits: Audio Storytelling
Applications to Toolkits are free for Express Media members. If you’re not already a member, you can sign up here.
Applications to Toolkits: Poetry require a joint Australia Poetry and Express Media membership which you can find here.
If you are experiencing a financial barrier to purchasing one of the memberships, please email us at info@expressmedia.org.au to discuss a sponsored position on the program.
Have a question? Need help with your application? You can reach out to our Creative Producer, Mia Nie, at creativeproducer@expressmedia.org.au.
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Toolkits Connect is generously supported by Copyright Agency Cultural Fund and Australian Poetry.
