I’m Josiah and am 13 years old. I attend an international school and my first foray into competitive writing was an academic piece I wrote at 12 years old which attained a scholarship (2 consecutive years) to a Summer School at Cambridge, England. “Cawan” was inspired by my dad’s experience with his pet macaque and his passion for the nepenthes plants.

My love for creative writing was further developed when I joined the Young Author Scheme (YAS) this year. I enjoyed all the sessions with Ms Catherine Khoo, the main teacher who taught the attendees how to write short stories starting at 150 words and develop them into longer stories of 1500 words.

From the YAS, I learned to put my ideas into a proper structure using the guidance given. I’m especially impressed with Ms Khoo’s vast experience in writing and her constant encouragement to let ideas flow freely drawing from one’s imagination or personal experiences. I highly recommend YAS to all young budding writers!