Welcome
Read. Write. Share. Writers Weekend
Join us to connect, inspire, and grow as a writer.
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About READ WRITE SHARE
Where stories are celebrated, voices are amplified, and connections are made.
The Read. Write. Share. Writers Conference is a creative gathering designed to inform, inspire, and connect writers, storytellers, and creatives at every stage of their journey. Rooted in the belief that stories have the power to educate, heal, and transform communities, this conference creates space for voices to be heard and ideas to be shared.
Over two engaging days, participants will experience a dynamic blend of anthology author readings, panel discussions, networking opportunities, vendor showcases, and moments of celebration. Whether you are an aspiring writer, a published author, an editor, educator, or creative entrepreneur, the conference offers meaningful conversations, practical insights, and authentic connection.
More than an event, Read. Write. Share. is a community—one that values creativity, collaboration, and the courage it takes to tell your story. We invite you to join us as we read boldly, write intentionally, and share stories that shape our world.
Conference agenda (subject to change)
Day 1 _May 15, 2026 (OLE 1) 5pm - 7pm
Voices, Expression & Connection: Day One of the Read. Write. Share. Writers Conference centers on celebrating voices, creative expression, and community connection. The day is designed to highlight written and spoken word while creating space for meaningful interaction among writers, creatives, and supporters.
Anthology Readings & Poetry Performances
Anthology contributors take the stage to share excerpts from their written works. These readings spotlight diverse voices and perspectives, offering attendees an intimate look into the stories, themes, and inspirations behind the writing. Poets and spoken-word artists deliver live performances that bring words to life. This session celebrates rhythm, emotion, and the art of performance, creating an engaging and inspiring experience for attendees.
Moderated Panel Discussion
The moderated panel discussion brings together writers, creatives, and industry voices for an engaging conversation centered on storytelling, creativity, and the writing journey. Guided by a moderator, panelists will share insights, experiences, and perspectives on the challenges and opportunities writers face today.
This interactive session invites thoughtful dialogue, encourages diverse viewpoints, and provides practical takeaways for writers at every stage. Attendees will have the opportunity
Vendor & Networking Opportunity
Guests are invited to visit vendor tables, connect with authors and creatives, and engage in open networking throughout the venue. This is an opportunity to discover resources, support small businesses, and build authentic relationships within the writing community.
Day 2 _ May 16, 2026 (Sue Cowan Williams Library) 9:30am - 12:30pm
Day Two (Morning): Learning, Growth & Skill Building: The morning of Day Two of the Read. Write. Share. Writers Conference is dedicated to hands-on learning and professional development. These interactive workshops are designed to equip writers and creatives with practical tools, fresh perspectives, and strategies they can apply to their craft and creative goals.
(AM) Workshop
✨ AI & The Modern Writer
Writing Smarter in a Digital Age
Artificial Intelligence is changing the way we write, edit, and publish. In this practical workshop, Iris M. Williams and Janis F. Kearney introduce the fundamentals of AI and how to use it responsibly as a writer.
Learn what AI is (and isn’t), how it can enhance your creative process, and how to maintain your authentic voice while using powerful tools.
(AM) Panel 1
✨ Panel Discussion: The Author’s Journey — From Idea to Impact
Join published authors as they share real insights into the writing and publishing journey.
This discussion will explore the creative process, navigating publishing, overcoming challenges, and the impact of storytelling on community and culture.
Perfect for aspiring and emerging writers, this session offers practical guidance and inspiration to help you move your story forward.
(AM) Panel 2
✨ Panel Discussion: The Stories We Choose — Purpose, Perspective & Impact
What shapes the stories we choose to tell—and how do those choices shape us?
In this panel, authors reflect on the decisions behind their stories and how those moments influenced their lives. Centered on the anthology theme, the discussion explores purpose, perspective, and the impact of storytelling.
This session invites writers and readers to consider the meaning and power of their own stories.
Day 2 _ May 16, 2026 (Mosaic Templars Cultural Center) 6pm - 8 pm
✨ Day Two (Evening): Celebration, Recognition & Inspiration The evening of Day Two of the Read. Write. Share. Writers Conference celebrates achievement and the power of storytelling. This special gathering features a keynote address, along with the presentation of awards and certificates recognizing the accomplishments of our writers. This culminating event brings the conference to a meaningful close—highlighting the impact of shared stories and the community that makes them possible.
Reception
The evening of Day Two of the Read. Write. Share. Writers Conference begins with a welcoming reception, offering attendees an opportunity to connect, reflect, and prepare for an inspiring evening of recognition and celebration.
Keynote Speaker
The evening continues with our featured keynote speaker, Kadija George Sesay, delivering an inspiring message centered on storytelling, purpose, creativity, and impact. This address encourages attendees to reflect on their journeys, embrace their voices, and continue sharing stories that shape and transform communities.
Recognition & Awards
The night culminates with a time of celebration, reflection, and honor. This special gathering recognizes authors and creatives whose work, dedication, and voices have made a meaningful impact.
Note: Agenda may evolve as planning continues.
Introducing the Southern Stories Anthology Series—authentic stories that reflect the defining moments, choices, and experiences of life in the South.
Writing Our Lives: A Southern Storytellers Anthology, Volume VII—the newest collection in our ongoing series highlighting authentic, personal narratives. Centered on the theme “The Path I Took at Life’s Fork in the Road… and How It Shaped Who I Am,” this volume brings together powerful stories of choice, growth, and transformation, reflecting the voices and experiences of writers across our commun
Volume One marks the beginning of the Read. Write. Share. anthology series and introduces the voices of student writers brought together through a shared journey of listening, learning, and storytelling. This inaugural volume is the culmination of months of intentional gatherings where students were encouraged to speak honestly, listen deeply, and reflect collectively.
The stories within this colle
Volume Two of the Read. Write. Share. anthology builds upon the foundation established in Volume One, continuing the collective journey of storytelling, listening, and shared reflection. This volume brings together returning contributors alongside new authors, expanding the conversation and deepening the sense of community formed in the inaugural collection.
Through personal narratives and reflecti
Written during the COVID-19 pandemic, Volume Three of the Read. Write. Share. anthology captures a deeply personal and transformative moment in time. As the world faced uncertainty, isolation, and loss, this volume became a space for writers to process pain, reflect on survival, and rediscover themselves amid unprecedented change.
The stories within this collection explore grief, resilience, fear,
Volume Four marks the beginning of the Read. Write. Share. anthology series and stands as a powerful testament to hope. As the inaugural collection, this volume brings together voices from diverse backgrounds, each offering a story rooted in resilience, faith, healing, and possibility.
Through personal narratives, reflections, and creative expressions, the authors explore what it means to hold onto
Volume Five of the Read. Write. Share. anthology represents a turning point—moving beyond survival toward healing and restoration in the aftermath of COVID-19. This volume focuses on overcoming the physical, emotional, and spiritual challenges brought on by the pandemic, capturing stories of endurance, growth, and renewed purpose.
Within these pages, authors reflect on lessons learned, resilience
Conference Hosts: Janis F. Kearney & Iris M. Williams
