The Words We Carry: Poetry, Voice & Spoken Story Workshop

The Words We Carry: Poetry, Voice & Spoken Story Workshop is a free, Indigenous-led poetry and spoken word workshop taking place during Alberta Culture Days in Wood Buffalo.

Led by three Indigenous poets, the workshop will guide participants in developing poetry from personal memory, identity, place, lived experience, and community connection. Through writing prompts, group discussion, gentle editing, and optional speaking practice, participants will explore their creative voice and build confidence in sharing their stories.

Open to youth, adults, emerging writers, and anyone interested in storytelling and creative expression, the workshop welcomes participants whether or not they consider themselves poets. Participants may create a new poem or develop an existing piece, receive supportive feedback, and explore the power of poetry to carry memory, culture, identity, and meaning.

The workshop will conclude with an optional sharing circle or informal reading, creating a welcoming, low-pressure opportunity to share a line, stanza, or completed poem.

By centering Indigenous poetry, oral storytelling, and community-based creative practice, The Words We Carry supports local Indigenous artists while creating an accessible space for community members to connect with writing, voice, culture, and one another.