Writer-editor-trainer Brigitte Rozario has worked with young writers for many years, and has been organising an annual Merdeka writing competition since 2020.
She has spent countless hours reading how young teens viewed the world.
However, she sensed something was missing. That was when she hit upon the idea for a new writing competition called Pipit. And it has proved to be a hit.
“My Merdeka writing competition is for those aged 11-14, but older teens kept asking, ‘What about us?’,” said Rozario, who launched her new children’s picture book, ‘Shuggie from the Streets’, two weeks ago.
“To encourage older teens who love writing fiction, I created Pipit Writing Competition for those aged 15-19.
“After I announced the rules for Pipit, those in their early 20s asked if they could join.”
So, does she plan to have another competition for young adults?
“Not anytime soon!” said a frazzled Rozario. “I hardly have time to breathe as it is. Luckily, I enjoy my job.”
Interestingly, a good number of entries came from Sabah and Sarawak.
“I’m glad the competition is not confined to West Malaysia only. There are many talented writers all over the country and I hope Pipit can be the start for them,” said the ardent photographer.
So, why a fiction writing competition?
“There are Malaysian writing competitions for those in the 15-19 age group, but they tend to be non-fiction. I wanted to give teens a chance to explore their creativity and enjoy the process of creating a story,” said the football fanatic.
“I know many youngsters who like to write, and I feel there aren’t enough opportunities or platforms for them to express themselves and hone their skills.
“How will they improve if they don’t practise?”
Rozario was previously attached to one of Malaysia’s leading newspapers for nearly a quarter of a century. Her background in journalism gave her the foundation for narrative skills and storytelling.
During her journalism days, Rozario handled many duties and subjects ranging from sports, parenting, features, lifestyle, and technology. She also has a love for music, and has written extensively on the local indie scene.
Such a myriad of interests and experiences helps when she trains young writers via her workshops. She also conducts training for the corporate sector.
But her passion remains to shape the next Jeffrey Archer or J.K. Rowling.
“I believe in encouraging creativity in any form. Without our creative talents, our country would be extremely dull,” said Rozario.
“In our pursuit of economic and academic excellence, there needs to be room for creative expression. It goes hand in hand with good mental health. I can see that many youngsters want to express themselves, but they don’t know where to do it.
“I’m glad to provide a platform for them. There can only be a few prizes, but they are all winners because they persevered and wrote a short story.”
The top three winners will walk away with BookXcess vouchers sponsored by Twentytwo13, a prize with their names engraved, a certificate, and a regular-sized Tata Pies apple pie.
