Creative Writing Workshop: Memory Into Story - Part 1

Description: Every story begins with a memory. Join host Bridget Badoe McQuick and guest host Pam Williams and for an engaging workshop where you’ll learn how to craft your own stories from personal experiences. This is part one of a two part creative writing series from the Wisdom of the Village project celebrating storytelling, community, and creative expression.

Who we are:

The workshop facilitators are both members of the Afrikan Heritage Writers, with work published in the group’s anthology “100 Years Unheard: WW1 and the Afrikan Diasporan Woman.

Pam Williams is author of “A Trace of Sun”, published in March 2024 and long listed for the Women’s Prize for Fiction. She won the Black Ink Magazine New Writing 2022 competition with her short story “Hibiscus” and is an alumnus of the London Writers Award 2019 (Spread the Word). Pam has facilitated creative writing workshops both independently and for organisations Spread the Word, Forthwrite and Write Like a Grrrl. She has given talks about her writing journey at a number of libraries and was a featured author at London’s inaugural Black Literary Festival and on the panel of 'Debut Authors over 50' at the first Forthwrite Women’s Festival of Writing both in 2025.

Bridget Badoe McQuick is a poet, playwright, and community storyteller. As founder of Wisdom of the Village (WOTV), she brings people together through writing, workshops, and dialogue. She has also contributed to three other anthologies Identities Unite, This is (my) Freedom, and Poetry is Our Protest, and is passionate about nurturing spaces that celebrate personal storytelling and spark creative expression.

What do you struggle with?

Finding the right words to capture a memory? Bringing real-life moments to life on the page? Turning personal experience into a story that connects with readers?

In this workshop, you’ll use prompts, tips, and guided writing exercises to transform memory into story. You’ll explore techniques like showing not telling, creating atmosphere, and shaping authentic voices. We’ll share examples and invite discussion to inspire you and strengthen your writing practice.

Who’s the workshop for?

Anyone passionate about storytelling and narrative creation.

• Beginners eager to explore writing techniques
• Writers working on a project in need of inspiration
• Anyone wanting to refresh their skills or build confidence
• Those who simply want to write alongside like-minded people in a friendly, supportive space

What to expect:

• Guided writing prompts
• Insightful advice and tips
• Inspiration to keep writing beyond the session

Materials needed:

Bring your favourite writing tools; notebooks, pens, laptops and and an item that sparks a memory, such as a favourite photo or personal object. Come with an open mind ready to explore the magic of words.

There will also be time for sharing and feedback, because writers need readers and other perspectives can be incredibly insightful. No pressure, though, sharing is always optional

Bonus for participants:

All attendees will receive discounted rates should you wish to access "Draft to Done" follow-up sessions, offered in a small groups or 1-to-1. These sessions are designed to help you stay accountable and work toward finishing your writing project. Full details on request. Places are limited.

Location:

The Garden House (Kitabevi) 410 High Road, London N17 9JB

• 5 minutes walk from Bruce Grove (Weaver Line)
• Bus routes: 123, 243, W4, 341, 476, 318, 149, 259, 279, 349,

Book now as spaces are limited!