Invitation to a workshop: Jumpstart your freelance writing career

[NOTE: The following is a press release from Writer’s Block Philippines]

MANILA, Philippines – On Saturday, Feb 20, Writer’s Block Philippines is once again hosting its annual workshop dubbed Jumpstart Your Freelance Writing Career at Fully Booked Bonifacio Global City.

The workshop will run from 1 pm to 6 pm and will cover practical tips on freelancing and how to write a story pitch that will get editors to notice you. The registration fee P2,000 and participants should be at least 18 years old  to sign up.

Preparing to pursue your passion

There is a misconception that being an artist won’t make for a sustainable career – and that includes writers.

But the ever-changing media landscape has enabled freelancers to thrive, making full-time freelance writing possible and profitable.

Just ask Ana P. Santos and Nikka Sarthou-Lainez. In 2010, the duo put up Writer’s Block Philippines, an organization dedicated to empowering freelance writers, communicators, and creative entrepreneurs.

“Back then, we just wanted to create a venue for writers to hone their craft. We wanted to share our stories on discovering the ins and outs of freelance writing and getting published; that’s why we organized our flagship workshop, Jumpstart Your Freelance Writing Career,” said Santos, a journalist who focuses on women and gender issues. Santos is a regular columnist for Rappler and Working Mom magazine. As the 2014 Persephone Miel Fellow for the Pulitzer Center on Crisis Reporting, her work has been published in The Atlantic and The Washington Post.

6 years and hundreds of workshop participants later, Writer’s Block Philippines has become top of mind in giving aspiring writers practical tips on starting a freelance writing career.

“Whether you are a college-age student, a hardworking millenial, or finally finding your passion late in life, Jumpstart Your Freelance Writing Career can help you take that first step in fulfilling your freelance dreams. We’ll change your mindset, and hopefully, instill in you the discipline required for it,” said Sarthou-Lainez, a lifestyle writer.

Sarthou-Lainez was chosen as one of 5 Asian representatives for Moleskine’s “We Are Modern Nomads” exhibit in 2012. She is currently a Contributing Editor for Smile magazine and also writes for various online and print publications.

Sarthou-Lainez previously worked at a publishing firm, while Santos once held the position of Assistant Vice-President of a financial institution. Both left their respective careers to pursue their passion to become full-time freelance writers.

“Our day jobs were actually crucial in preparing us for the world of freelancing,” said Santos.

“School did not teach us about freelancing,” agreed Sarthou-Lainez. “Our past careers and life experiences fueled our passions to thrive in this unpredictable freelance industry.” —Rappler.com

For media inquiries, please contact 09173979927 or email writersblock.ph@gmail.com.