#scbwicon22

After a long three years the Society of Children's Book Writer's and Illustrators (SCBWI) British Isles Conference was finally back, but this time in a brand new venue - Manchester Metropolitan University. 

It was absolutely fantastic to be back with old friends and meet new members. I had a new role this year as the 1-1 Coordinator which left me with more time to be able to attend various talks and workshops. I listened to Alex Wheatle deliver the most powerful Key Note Speech I think I've ever heard, I led my own talk with agents Katie Blagden from The Bright Agency and Becky Bagnell of Lindsay Literary and I attended a brilliant workshops on Writing in Verse with Lousia Reed. 

For some reason the photos I took are not loading onto my blog so I only have this one of my Outstanding Volunteer Contribution Award moment. Sadly I wasn't there to witness it as ironically I was volunteering, but I'm told I got a good cheer and I'm thrilled to receive the award.

I've been a SCBWI volunteer for many years and although it's hard work at times it's incredibly rewarding.

SCBWI has given me so much over the years, support, encouragement, craft development, professional networking, inspiration but above everything else - friendship. 

It is a very warm, supportive organisation and to be part of the Mass Book Launch at the Saturday evening is something I will treasure forever.