The WSA-R Book Coaching Programme is designed to nurture the next generation of Rwandan authors through an intensive, two-phase training initiative.
Phase 1 includes six common-unit sessions covering creativity and idea generation, overcoming writer’s block, boosting productivity, and gaining essential knowledge about the publishing industry.
Phase 2 offers six genre-specific sessions where participants explore the writing and editing process of a particular type of book, such as a novel, a memoir, a poetry anthology, self-help, an autobiography, and a storybook, among others
The inaugural cohort successfully graduated six participants.
Testimonies
Gisele Ingabire
The WSA Book Coaching Programme was a personalised roadmap to my dreams. It was the Beyoncé-level upgrade of my creative life. I learned to take the messy ideas in my brain and turn them into something tangible. It walked me through everything: ideas, building narratives, writing, publishing, and even how to sell my stories to the world. I went from “messy scribbler with loser stories” to creator. To storyteller, to poet. The programme didn’t just change my craft; it gave me the guts to say, “Yes, I’m a writer,” and actually own it. If you’ve ever felt that pull to spill your heart onto a page and make people feel, this program is your green light. Sign up, show up, and let WSA-R show you the writer you’re meant to be. Trust me, your future self will one day stand with a book in hand, saying, “We did it!”
Lise Nova Berwadushime
My six-month training on memoir writing was challenging due to personal reasons, but I am glad I managed to complete it. During this time, I learned how to write in a way that makes sense, whether chronologically or thematically. I would say this training was exactly what I needed to begin writing, as it unclogged my mind and allowed the waters of creativity to flow freely. I highly recommend this program to anyone who feels stuck, as I once did—wanting to write a memoir but not knowing where to start.
Roger Mugisha
This programme was an invaluable experience. I particularly appreciated the structured sessions with constructive feedback and encouragement from Tom, our facilitator. Before the programme, I was unsure about the publishing process, including finding a publisher, working with editors, and the importance of structure. Now, I have a clearer vision and have started working on my poetry collection. The program equipped me with the necessary knowledge and skills to navigate the publishing landscape confidently. Additionally, I gained insights into poetry formatting, revised poetry types, and effective ways to identify and develop themes that resonate with readers and fit with content. I wholeheartedly recommend this program to fellow aspiring poets and writers. Thank you WSA-R for this transformative experience.
Angeline Akimana
WSA-R Book Coaching Program has really moulded me right. I learned how to structure personal stories in a way that connects with readers. I learned the importance of reflecting on life events and expressing emotions honestly. The course introduced techniques like using valid details, building narratives, and finding my unique voice. I understood that writing is not just placing a piece of paper on the table and then grabbing a pen. It has to link a story with the voice of the writer so that the reader will be able to relate. Through this journey, I was made capable of crafting a compelling book that will make a reader forget about counting the remaining pages. I have an idea of the people who feel like writing a book and sharing their inspiring personal stories, but they don’t know which button to click and start. This book coaching programme is the one.
Ange Kazihise
Being privileged to participate in the WSA-R Book Coaching Programme has been a transformative experience. From day one, I not only learned memoir writing but also how to dive deeper into my own life stories. The program guided me through the process of structuring my memoir, finding my unique voice, and understanding the power of vulnerability in storytelling, especially my own stories. My writing skills have highly elevated, sustaining me with confidence in sharing my personal journey. The feedback and follow-up from the instructor did wonders in my writing journey and equipped me with all the necessary tools I needed to write a complete book. With no doubt, I would highly recommend this programme to anyone aspiring to write his or her book.
Clementine Uwineza (Nganzo Nziza)
Before attending this programme, I was very confused about writing. I simply felt drawn to poetry and wrote based on feelings rather than structure. However, I learned how to make my emotions tangible by aligning my writing with the type of collection I wanted to create. This had always been a dream of mine, and now it is becoming a reality. I have started writing my book, guided by my choice of poetry collection, understanding its characteristics, and knowing how to develop my theme. I also learned about the importance of editing in poetry collections, which is why collaboration with other writers will be a key part of my journey. The programme taught me how valuable such partnerships can be. The various lessons from book coaching have sharpened my skills and enriched my perspective. I am truly grateful!