Young writers workshop

Acclaimed author Alice Pung will be leading a workshop for young writers. (Supplied)

Award-winning author Alice Pung is returning to the west where she grew up to lead an autobiographical writing workshop.

Young writers and creatives from the west aged 18-30 will be guided through the principles of drawing on their own lived experiences in writing.

Ms Pung, whose own memoirs such as ‘Growing Up Asian in Australia’ and ‘Unpolished Gem’ have earned her wide acclaim, will coach participants through various writing styles to unlock their personal stories.

Delivered by Western Edge as part of its Open Page Workshop Series, the free workshop is suitable for anyone, whether they are aspiring novelists or just having their first go at writing.

Designed to inspire diverse voices and encourage budding storytellers to find their voices, the program will provide a supportive, low-pressure environment that hopes to push boundaries.

Western Edge executive director Georgia Naidu performed in the Melbourne Theatre Company’s stage adaptation of Ms Pung’s ‘Laurinda’ in 2022.

“I have personally experienced Alice’s work changing the lives of young, marginalised people, and I can’t believe how lucky we are to have Alice coming in to work with our community,’ she said.

“Writing workshops usually come with a fee attached and they demand a level of writing experience. Open Page is as unique as our young artists of the West. It is free, and no writing experience is required.”

The workshop will be held at the Tarneit Community Learning Centre between 6-9pm on Wednesday, November 20.

Jaidyn Kennedy