By Sarai Andrews
Bocas Lit Fest is dedicated not only to promoting but also developing new Caribbean voices. The project “First Words” Young Writer Development aims to discover and mentor five young writers at different stages of their creative writing journeys, from childhood through youth and, ideally, into becoming award-winning, globally acclaimed adult writers.
On Saturday, December 14th, 2024, the Children’s Library in Port of Spain hosted an intimate
read-through of works by those selected for this edition of the First Words project. Close friends and family gathered to hear the first drafts of original fiction written by Jorel Ferguson, Caiden Francis, Andre Lucio, and Isabel McCollin. These young writers collaborated with a mentor for the first time to refine and develop their natural writing talents.
Despite their pre-existing commitments, they worked diligently online with their mentor, Alake Pilgrim, to improve their drafts through one-on-one guidance. Remarkably, despite their young ages, these writers demonstrated the discipline and commitment of mature professionals.
Alake Pilgrim, the mentor chosen for this project, shared how the experience resonated with her personally. She explained that the project helped to heal her inner child, as she did not have a similar opportunity when she was their age. “When I was writing at their age, I was hiding it—I had to keep it to myself because there was no one to share it with or get feedback from,” she said. Reflecting on the young writers, Pilgrim remarked, “Each one is so unique.
Their projects are completely unique, and their styles are distinct. They each have a Caribbean flair that is personal to them. It was like looking through a window into different Caribbean styles of writing that weren’t at the forefront when I was their age.
Many of them are naturally inclined to write fantasy, which I wouldn’t have thought of at their age.” The young writers expressed feeling supported and encouraged throughout the process, which was a departure from their usual experiences. Isabel McCollin shared, “I was having trouble with my setting and specific character descriptions, and Aunty Alake really helped me figure out what to do. I saw the problem but didn’t know how to fix it at first.” She and the other participants highlighted how much they enjoyed their sessions with Pilgrim. Her enthusiasm for their individual works was infectious, and her constructive feedback helped them feel seen and understood as writers.
During the program, the young writers learned professional tools and methods to enhance their existing skills. They gained insights into drafting, dialogue, and descriptive writing, which they applied to improve their work. This program will continue into next year, as this is only the first phase.
Bocas Lit Fest’s Children’s Programme Manager, Melvina Hazard, stated, “‘First Words’ aligns perfectly with our mission to discover, develop, elevate, and celebrate emerging Caribbean voices. By working with these young writers from an early age in a focused, mindful process with an accomplished children’s writer, we aim to help nurture a new generation of talent. I’m very impressed by the samples shared today and look forward to four new, exceptional, original works that will delight children aged seven and up.”
The reading of these first drafts was a wonderful way to close out the calendar year.
