Wise words from the late and great American writer about the importance of discovering your calling—and ones that can guide freelance writers towards satisfaction and success. Writing about your passion is a joy — but what does it take to become an accomplished niche writer? Find out from our panelists, who have built productive and rewarding careers in specific beats. In this moderated panel discussion, you’ll gain insights on how to:

- Discover your passion: What beats do you enjoy most? What are you good at writing about?

- Identify opportunities: How lucrative is your chosen beat? How do you find publications and organizations focusing on your specialty?

- Become an expert: How do you build contacts and expertise in your field? How do you become the go-to writer on your specialty? What can you do besides writing articles to build your expertise? 

The seminar will be introduced by education writer Sharon Aschaiek and moderated by automotive writer Krystyna Lagowski.

Panel:

Ann Douglas is an author and magazine writer who specializes in writing about parenting. A popular speaker, Ann leads workshops and delivers keynote addresses on a variety of topics of interest to writers, parents, and others who share her passions for education, health, social justice, and civic engagement. She lives and works in Peterborough, Ontario, and volunteers her time with various projects and causes. In June 2013, Ann became the second person ever to be awarded a Lifetime Membership by the Professional Writers Association of Canada (in recognition of her contributions to the freelance writing profession). In April 2012, Ann was one of 16 Canadians invited to Rideau Hall to discuss family policy with Canadian Governor-General David Johnston and his wife Sharon Johnston.

Valerie Howes is a freelance food, travel and health writer who has written for enRoute, Chatelaine, Canadian Living, Martha Stewart’s Body + Soul, BlackBook, Toronto Life and Toronto Star, among other publications. Since 2010, she has been the food editor of Reader’s Digest. Her blog, Open Kitchen, has been nominated for three Canadian Online Publishing (COPA) awards and took Silver in 2011. In 2013, Open Kitchen won Gold in the Best Blog category at the Canadian Society of Magazine Editors awards. Howes was previously a senior editor at Spafax and for Maisonneuve magazine. She lives in Toronto and is currently working on her first book project about Newfoundland cuisine.

Virginia Heffernan is a former exploration geologist who escaped from the bush to take a staff writing position at The Northern Miner. She turned freelance in 1997. Her background in geology and environmental science gives her an edge when it comes to keeping and finding clients globally.

FREE for PWAC members and students (please register online; students, please show proof of academic enrollment at the door)
Members of associate writers’ groups $10 online registration (up to midnight before event) or $20 at the door
Non-members $15 online registration (up to midnight before event) or $20 at the door