for like ever

I am a Writing Mentor

I provide a collaborative one on one creative writing experience for young women (ages 12-18), offering support, encouragement and inspiration as they maneuver their way through a critical time in their lives. My goal is for each girl to feel empowered and to find her voice through the process of writing freely with the support of a nurturing and informed guide.

What I do: I provide a blank journal on the first meeting in which all work is written by hand. I ask each girl to make daily journal entries between our meetings that we share and might use as impetus for discussion and further writing. I use specific writing prompts and exercises that involve all genres, including poetry, fiction, non-fiction etc. We write and share about the work together, so she is fully engaged in the process rather than relying on me to give the answer or a grade. I give positive feedback and encourage further exploration of her potential.

Why I do it: Writing is therapeutic and empowering and a good writer is a good communicator. The exercises we do together draw out what inspires and motivates each girl to help her find her voice, while improving her communication skills and ultimately building self-esteem. All this leads to a more confident and empowered young woman. At this age, girls are vulnerable and in a kind of identity crisis. Having an outlet through which to explore their feelings and express themselves creatively will provide lifelong benefits. I would have benefited greatly from an experience like this growing up. Lastly, finding my true voice through writing, later in life, has motivated me to help young girls do the same.

What I offer: inspiration, support, encouragement, guidance, nurturing, artistic experience, writing expertise.

What I am not: a therapist, counselor, tutor, teacher or friend. I do not use lectures, grades, condescension or criticism.

Kim Derby is a freelance writer and editor. She has written for EcoSalon and is currently working on her first book, a memoir. You can find some of her recent work here. Kim graduated Cum Laude with a degree in English from USC. She did her graduate studies in Interior & Architectural Design at UCLA. She grew up in Pacific Palisades and attended St Matthew’s Parish School and Westlake School for Girls (Harvard-Westlake).