By Izunna Okafor, Awka


It was indeed a moment of knowledge exchange and display of creative talents as Aurick Foundation marked the third edition of her Young Author's Conference in Anambra State.

The event which took place in Awka, with the theme: “Africa And The World: Bridging the Gap through Literature And knowledge Sharing” attracted budding and established writers, as well as literary enthusiasts from both within and outside the country.

Declaring the event open, the State's Commissioner for Basic Education, Prof. Kate Omenugha extolled the organizers of the event for sustaining it over the years, owing to its immense contributions in the governor Willie Obiano's effort and commitment towards discovering and harnessing the potentials of the youths in the creative field.

Represented by the Public Relations officer of the Ministry, Mr Nnaemeka Egwuonwu, Prof. Omenugha who was honoured with award at the event noted that Anambra state has given the world arrays of writers, the likes of Chinua Achebe, Chukwuemeka Ike, Chimamanda Adichie among others; and hence called on the youths to emulate such great icons and literary figures, even as she pledge the ministry's continuous support for the event.

Earlier in his address of welcome, the President of Aurick Foundation and convener of the event, Mr. Michael Chineme Ike said the event which holds annually since last three years aims at nurturing and helping young writers root their stands in the writing field, exchange knowledge and ideas that will help them peak their creativity; as well as expose them to the numerous opportunities that abound in the field.

He noted that this year's edition of the event which was slated to be heralded by a Movie Premiere was thematically shot at using literature and knowledge sharing to bridge the gap between Africa and the world, hence the choice of the theme.

In their separate lectures, an American author, Mr. Kalen Doleman who harped on the theme, and Mr. Jerry Chiemeke who lectured on the topic: "African Writers, Pushing Voices and Getting Your Voices Heard” shared their personal experiences in creative writing, and further dosed out some tips that will enable especially young writers to improve the quality of their works, enhance their creativity in the field as well as get their voices heard globally.

The event featured spoken word poetry, music performances, dram and presentation of awards, among others.