Feminist and LGBTQ+ Studies

Abstract

How can we inspire girls and gender-expansive youth to express themselves, celebrate their identities and cultures as well as explore the social justice and equity topics they are 
passionate about? WriteGirl has been delivering impactful and innovative programming for 23 years. WriteGirl proprietary curriculum draws on healing- and trauma-informed approaches, 
spotlights historical and contemporary writers, emphasizes interactive elements and is designed to create a positive, playful and supportive environment where teens can create and share their work. This presentation will share WriteGirl strategies and activities for how to use multi-sensory elements such as music, nature, objects, photographs and more to inspire teens to share 
stories from their lives, express their emotions and perspectives, as well as write evocative poetry, nonfiction, fiction, songs, scenes and more. Discover signature WriteGirl elements such 
as  “Soapbox,” “Threads,” ‘Chill Zone,” and curated self-care activities. Learn about creating powerful jumping off points and environments to help young writers and leaders develop writing 
and leadership skills.

Biography

Keren Taylor is the founder and Executive Director of WriteGirl, a nonprofit creative writing and mentoring organization for underserved teen girls and gender-expansive youth. Since 2001, 
Keren has led WriteGirl’s expansion into a thriving global community that helps hundreds of youth annually, from Los Angeles to Uganda. Notable alums include the youngest inaugural poet in U.S. history, Amanda Gorman. Keren has received dozens of awards, including the Los Angeles Times Innovator’s Award and was named a CNN Hero for her decades of work creating 
innovative educational programs for girls and gender-expansive youth.