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Starting Your Own Writers' Organisation | Interview with Jasmin Perry

I owe a lot to Weston Writer's Nights, an organisation that holds masterclasses and networking events for writers. The first time I had ever read a piece of my work out was at one of their events. They then encouraged me to submit my work to BBC Radio Bristol, where I was then interviewed about my writing.

I sat down and spoke with the founder of WWN, Jasmin Perry, over the phone about how she started it all.




About Jasmin 

From Weston-super-Mare.

Been writing her whole life.

Currently editing her first novel which she finished three weeks ago and has been writing short stories during lockdown.

She loves dystopian and fantasy novels that make big statements, such as The Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood and 1984 by George Orwell. 








After finishing her masters degree in creative writing, Jasmin founded WWN in June 2019.  "I've always enjoyed writing and I wanted to be an author, but I didn't know anyone growing up. And I didn't have the means to travel to writers' retreats like my friends."

Finding writing communities in small towns is hard. WWN gave the people of Weston and surrounding areas something they didn't have before, with events that include a showcase of local writers, masterclasses and Q&A's with published authors.


Starting your own organisation

 You too could start your own writers organisation for your local area after the pandemic has blown over. Jasmin took the funding route through the Arts Council which helped give her a structure as you have to follow a specific framework and application process.

Although Jasmin had her fears at first. The classic worries of Will anyone turn up? And general nerves. However, it's completely worth it as you get to meet and build relationships with fellow writers. "I love meeting people and helping them get their work out there. This is something that didn't exist for me [growing up]," said Jasmin.



Contacting Authors

 Contacting published authors might seem like the scary part. However, you'll be surprised at how much they love events such as these. Some authors actually reached out to Jasmin to work with her. And she already knew some from university and networking.

Otherwise, it's important to do your research. Look online for their contact details, they'll often have them available or at least their estate agent's.

Join In 

WWN are currently doing live sessions on YouTube. There are currently three dates left.


Or follow them on Facebook to see what they're up to. They're always sharing publishing opportunities and you can speak to other writers as well.


Until the next time,

Char



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