Professional Development
Our seminars, webinars and networking events provide safe, nurturing environments where our artists can speak freely about their work and broaden their professional network.
UPCOMING EVENT: How To Write A Picture Book With Derek Mascarenhas
June 12, 2025 12:30 pm
Curious about writing books for young readers? Join children’s author Derek Mascarenhas for an engaging introduction to the world of picture books. In this session, we’ll explore the different types of picture books, the writer’s role, and the key ingredients of a great story—character, structure, plot, and more. You’ll also learn how to shape an idea, consider your audience, and navigate the path to publication.
SIGN UP NOWUPCOMING EVENT: How to Write a Compelling First Chapter With Jennilee Austria-Bonifacio
June 24, 2025 12:30 pm
Join Reuniting with Strangers author Jennilee Austria-Bonifacio as she uses her characteristic blend of humour and heart to help emerging authors who are struggling to get their words flowing. Jennilee will share lessons learned from the late CanLit legend Wayson Choy, the power in finding an enthralling topic, and the joy of finding a like-minded literary community. Join her for a session of encouragement and laughter designed to help participants start their first chapter with confidence.
SIGN UP NOWARCHIVED EVENT: Publishing Agreements 101
April 24, 2025 12:30 pm
Join us for a discussion of the ins and outs of publishing agreements with Michael Duboff of Edwards Creative Law. This seminar will present you with the legal information to approach the business aspect of your literary career.
SIGN UP NOWARCHIVED EVENT: Speculative Poetry 101
April 23, 2025 12:30 pm
Speculative poetry has seen, in recent years, a rise in engagement and publication. In this intro to speculative poetry workshop, participants will learn: the basics of defining, writing and identifying speculative poetry; how to use literary devices to enhance the speculative elements in their poems; and how to use poetic types to bridge speculative content and form. Time will also be allotted for writing exercises and sharing resources.
VIEW HEREARCHIVED EVENT: Playing With Structure
March 25, 2025 12:30 pm
Join author Bindu Suresh as she discusses the different ways you can play with structure in your novel or short story. This will be an interactive workshop so be prepared to do some writing and active participation!
SIGN UP NOWARCHIVED EVENT: How to Substack
February 25, 2025 12:00 am
As social media continues to fragment, and space for authors and books diminish, it’s ever more important to consider starting a newsletter. Unlike social media where marketing experts estimate you retain the attention about 1% of the ‘eyeballs’ that see your posts, the audience who reads your newsletter is captive and exclusive. They’re there only for you – and your writing! Join DD founder/president Helen Walsh, who publishes https://helenwalsh.substack.com/ to discuss If/How to Substack, including an introduction to the platform, tips to build your subscriber base, are Notes really a friendlier alternative to X, suggested resources and more.
VIEW HEREWe’re working on new ways to support emerging writers.
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