Seven years, seven books and 140 participants since its inception, Brigitte Rozario’s Junior Writers Programme continues to empower budding young writers, offering them a platform to express their creativity through storytelling.
The programme has been a launchpad for budding authors, as at the end of the seven-month course, Rozario publishes a collection of their stories in a book.
Proceeds from the sale of the books go towards a chosen charity, which, last year, was Yayasan Chow Kit, a non-profit organisation serving the needs of children and teens in and around the Chow Kit area in Kuala Lumpur.
Last year’s book, ‘The Eye: A Young Writers’ Anthology’, raised RM1,629.90.
The seventh book of the Junior Writers Programme – ‘Through The Window’ – was launched last weekend at BookXcess, and explores diverse themes and personal experiences.
That was reflected in Jhanani Thamaseelan’s story – ‘Window Dressing’ – which examines cultural appreciation and self-acceptance.
“My story is about a girl (Kavi) who thinks her culture is something to be ashamed of, or is uncool,” said Jhanani.
“Then, a new girl joins Kavi’s school and opens her eyes to appreciate her culture. Kavi is inspired by the new girl to finally appreciate her culture.”
Jhanani said the story was semi-autobiographical.
“I went through the phase of not appreciating my culture, until a friend made me realise how important it is,” she said.
“So, this story is about myself appreciating my heritage and culture. It took me almost two weeks to write, edit, and get the final version.”
Teh Min Ian, meanwhile, wrote about bullying in ‘Courage’.
“I want to spread the word, that bullying is wrong,” said the 12-year-old, who learnt about the programme through his mother’s Instagram account.
“I hope to write more books in the future, and I credit this programme for teaching me about time management.”
Like Teh, Khadijah Azlan said Rozario’s programme taught her more than writing skills.
“I learnt that if I wanted to do something, I have to stick to it and not just dream about it, as it won’t get done,” said the 13-year-old, who dreams of a career in writing.
“If you start preparing and take the first step, everything will fall into place.”
Khadijah’s story – ‘Caged’ – is about a girl who has osteosarcoma, a type of bone cancer.
Her over-protective mother refuses to allow her to leave home as she fears she will get worse, but the teenager, Aliyana, wants to lead a normal life.
“I felt it would be an interesting story to explore as it deals with an important issue. What happens when your child is ill, do you allow them to live life normally, or do you ‘cage’ them at home,” said Khadijah.
Another of the young writers, Dissha Harleeyn Kaur, an aspiring doctor, said she drew inspiration for her story – ‘I Spy’ – from her love of crime novels.
“My story is about the murder of a girl (Asha Kumar), which is witnessed by a neighbour (Wong Mei Ling) from the opposite apartment. Unfortunately, no one believes her, as there is no evidence or body,” said Dissha Harleeyn.
“Mei Ling decides she has to solve the case on her own.”
These are just four of the 20 stories in ‘Through The Window’ now available at BookXcess and MPH for RM31.90.
Rozario revealed that the slots for the 2025 Junior Writers Programme have already been filled.
“I thought I would do it for five years and move on, but seeing the enthusiasm of the kids, I just can’t stop now,” said Rozario.
As the eighth intake of her Junior Writers Programme prepares to begin its journey, Rozario promised to continue championing the voices of young writers.
