North Island Writers Conference Announces 2026 Return to Comox Valley

The Comox Valley Writers Society has confirmed the return of the annual **North Island Writers Conference** for 2026. This much-anticipated event will take place over three days, from **January 16 to January 18**, at the **North Island College** campus in **Courtenay**.

The conference will kick off on Friday afternoon at **1 p.m.** with a session led by **Diana Kolpak**, focusing on enhancing public speaking and presentation skills. This opening session will last for three hours, setting an engaging tone for the weekend.

On Friday evening, the keynote address will be delivered by **Susan Juby**, a faculty member at **Vancouver Island University**. Juby’s presentation, titled “**The Importance of Writing Fiction During Revolution**,” will delve into the significant impact of artificial intelligence on creative writing. This keynote is particularly notable for its accessibility, as it does not require prior registration.

The conference will continue with a series of informative workshops and presentations on Saturday. Juby will return to lead another session, this time concentrating on the intricacies of character-building. **Sonnet L’Abbe** will also present a workshop titled “**Poetry as Resistance**,” which will investigate how poetry can serve as a tool against misinformation.

Participants seeking insights into the publishing landscape will benefit from a session led by **Debbie Anderson** from **FriesenPress**. She will provide a comprehensive guide to self-publishing, along with one-on-one consultations for aspiring authors. Additionally, **Judy LeBlanc** will offer guidance on memoir and personal essay writing, helping individuals articulate their personal narratives.

For those looking to showcase their writing skills, the conference will host its second annual **fiction writing contest** at **3 p.m.** on Saturday. This free competition includes two categories: one for youth aged **15 to 24** and another for adults **25 and over**.

Other notable workshops will include a session by **Claire Mulligan**, focusing on the structure, style, and craft of short fiction, as well as a presentation by **Jessica McDiarmid** addressing effective techniques for research and narrative building. **Trevor McMonagle** will round out the day by exploring the editing process, offering valuable insights for writers at all levels.

A press release from the Comox Valley Writers Society encourages all attendees, stating, “**If you love reading and writing, this conference is for you. Bring your lunch, your ideas, and your passion for storytelling.**” The conference promises to be a vibrant gathering for writers and literature enthusiasts alike, fostering a community dedicated to the craft of writing.