We had the opportunity to hear from five of our community’s talented writers and storytellers during our Writing the Stories of Our Past and Weaving the Stories of Our Future panel, moderated by WPHW summer health intern Kaya Lolar. This panel focused on the experiences of the authors as well as advice for young people looking to start their writing journeys.
“One of the most important parts that I took from today is remembering to have your own power,” said Kaya, “within the colonized system we live in today, remembering to stick up for yourself and hold your ground when it comes to living your individuality and representing your culture and your community is important. I’m so grateful that all the storytellers were here today so that our community can see how talented our people are and how much we have to share.”
As an intern, Kaya created a 6-week, 6-session young storytelling program that will work with writers looking to write their own stories and publish their own books.
“I’m hoping to implement it on Indian Island first and then hopefully extend it to our other communities so we can get our stories out there and maybe even beyond our communities,” said Kaya.
