Programs for Emerging and Established Writers
The SWG aims to create an environment that is inclusive for all writers to develop their craft – from workshops and online courses to mentorships and professional development. The SWG embraces equity and diversity among its members and provides a supportive community that understands what it means to be called a writer.
Our Indigenous Program Manager organizes events and programs for emerging and established Indigenous writers and audiences. We work with the Saskatchewan Aboriginal Writers Circle Inc. (SAWCI) and the Ânskohk Aboriginal Literature Festival and encourage membership in both organizations.
Indigenous mentorship program
The SWG Indigenous Mentorship Program allows developing Indigenous writers to work in a supportive environment under the guidance of professional writers.
The mentor provides the apprentice with one-on-one instruction in the craft of creative writing. The program is open to Indigenous writers in all genres and will be tailored to the apprentice's individual needs. Participants will spend an intensive four days working together in a retreat-style setting to begin the program. For the duration of the program, the pairs will work to develop the best methodology for working together and spend approximately 20 hours a month in collaboration through email, phone, face-to-face and online meetings.
The focus of the program is craft development, manuscript preparation, the business of writing and editing. Apprentices should not expect to have a completed manuscript by the end of the program. At the end of the program, the apprentices will give a public reading of their work.
There is no cost to apply for this program and there are no participation fees.
Truth & Reconciliation
The Saskatchewan Writers’ Guild hosts a Truth & Reconciliation event on September 30th of each year. In these events, we have authors & hosts sharing stories, have conversations and give talks to recognize intergenerational harm that residential schools have caused to Indigenous families, communities and to honour those who have been affected by this. These events help send a message of solidarity, harmony, and healing by sharing their stories.
Creative Writing Workshops
Want to develop better writing skills? How to write with confidence?
The Saskatchewan Writers’ Guild, partnering with the Saskatoon Public Library, hosts two Creative Writing workshops for both beginner or experienced writers. These workshops are held in the fall and in the spring. We invite different Indigenous writers, with different genres, to present an interactive, professional development writing workshop.
Throughout the year, Indigenous writers work with the SWG as workshop facilitators and instructors, festival and conference presenters, and readers. Watch our website for these exciting opportunities!
Tânsi Talks Series
The Saskatchewan Writers’ Guild invites you to join our “Tansi Talk”Series. These talks are hosted in October, December, January, March and May of each year.
These are conversations with Saskatchewan Indigenous writers and hosts. Each one-hour discussion is a conversation about writing and storytelling, and features authors working in different genres. Join us virtually and in-person throughout the year for an exploration of topics like children’s books, memoirs, Residential Schools, poetry, short stories, and histories.
Indigenous Advisory Committee
This committee reviews the SWG’s existing programs, policies and protocols and suggests ways to be more inclusive to better serve Saskatchewan’s Indigenous writing community.
National Indigenous History Month
The SWG celebrates National Indigenous History Month in June with programs and events including supporting storytellers and writers at National Indigenous Peoples Day celebrations on June 21st.
Storytellers month
The SWG partners with organizations around the province to host Indigenous storytellers and musicians each February.
For more information, please contact:
Indigenous Program Coordinator
T: 306.244.0107| E: swgip@skwriter.com
