Becoming: A Writing Social on Liminality, Self-Return & the Future Self
About this Event
Becoming: A Writing Social on Liminality, Self-Return & the Future Self
Becoming is a grant-funded, grassroots literary event exploring life’s in-between seasons through poetry, author readings, guided writing, wellness, and Korean-inspired future-self letter writing.
Created by Ese (IG: @esewrites_), Becoming is the third event in an ongoing Writing Social series inspired by the stages and themes of her manuscript-in-progress, which reflects on her time in East Asia and her re-entry into Toronto after five years abroad.
This gathering explores liminality — the transitional seasons where we are no longer who we once were, but not quite where we hope to be. Attendees are invited to slow down, connect, and reflect on who they are becoming.
Supported by community grant funding, Becoming hopes to help build a longstanding community of writers, readers, and creatives across Ontario. It offers a warm and intimate space for anyone navigating change, seeking creative connection, or longing to be reminded that they are not alone in the in-between.
Agenda
🕑: 06:00 PM - 06:45 PM
6:00 PM – Doors Open / Registration
Info: Guests arrive, check in, and are invited to write on the "Notes to Self" board with affirmations, encouragement, or messages to their future selves. Guests can also purchase drinks or pastries from Typist Studios, purchase books by featured authors through Queen Books, and connect with other attendees before the program begins.
🕑: 06:45 PM - 06:50 PM
6:45 PM – Program Begins Promptly
Host: Ese
Info: Welcome remarks by Ese and introduction to Becoming: A Writing Social on Liminality, Self-Return & the Future Self.
🕑: 06:50 PM - 07:00 PM
6:50 PM – Opening Mindfulness Practice
Host: Oriana Sparks
Info: A gentle grounding practice led by Oriana Sparks to help guests arrive fully and prepare for reflection, writing, and connection.
🕑: 07:00 PM - 07:35 PM
7:00 PM – Featured Readings & Reflections
Host: Desiree Mckenzie
Info: Poetry readings from (1) Desiree McKenzie, (2) Hajer Mirwali, (3) Victoria Mbabazi, and (4) Andrea Josic, with reflections connected to the theme of Becoming.
🕑: 07:40 PM - 08:05 PM
7:40 PM – Guided Writing & Future-Self Letter Writing
Host: Andrea Josic
Info: Andrea Josic will help guide attendees into the writing portion of the evening, followed by Korean-inspired future-self letter writing with materials from Hanji Gifts. Jungle Flower Wellness will offer a live sound bath in the background to create a calm and focused atmosphere.
🕑: 08:05 PM - 08:20 PM
8:05 PM – Author Conversation / Q&A
Host: Lavanya Lakshmi
Info: A short author conversation centering Lavanya Lakshmi’s debut novel, Leave and Come Back, with reflections on writing, transition, identity, family, self-return, and creative practice. Featured writers may also join the conversation as it connects to the broader theme of Becoming.
🕑: 08:20 PM - 08:25 PM
Event Wraps Up
Host: Ese
🕑: 08:30 PM - 09:00 PM
8:30 - Book Signing & Closing Connection
Info: Books by featured authors will be available for purchase through Queen Books, with time for signing, photos, and final connection.
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
CAD 0.00
