Alisa began her First Story journey in 2026, inspired by a friend’s poetry. With a background in drawing, including attending the Royal Drawing School, she is now exploring poetry as a new form of self-expression. Through the programme, she hopes to develop her creative practice, gain experience, and contribute to a welcoming space for people who may be new to poetry but eager to create.

Astelina began First Story in 2022, coming from a small Nottinghamshire town where her creativity was beginning to blossom. The Bulwell Academy launched First Story at the perfect time for her, where she made friends and deeply loved writing! Astelina hopes that with the YCC she can support and elevate the voices of other young people who may not feel as connected to their creative side.

Daisy took part in the Young Writers Programme in 2022, and it has been fundamental for her creativity since. She continues to connect with fellow like minded young people at events such as The Cambridge writing Festival and Alumni Events, and hopes the YCC will give more people the opportunity to do so, as well.

Emma was involved in First Story from 2015 to 2019, and has recently been a Shadow Writer at Nottingham Academy. She is a contemporary dancer and poet, and has just finished her MA in Creative Writing at Nottingham Trent University. She hopes to bring arts to as many communities as she can, through the YCC and beyond.

Nidaa began First Story in 2015, continuing to participate in the workshops until sixth form. Formerly the Vice Chair of Nottingham City of Literature’s Youth Board, she now serves as an Events Officer for the Writing East Midlands Youth Board. Currently, Nidaa is studying Veterinary Medicine at Aberystwyth University. 

Sarah completed the Young Writers Programme at St Paul’s Way School 21/22. In 23/24 she was awarded a Folio Academy Mentorship and was supported for a year by Booker Prize winning novelist Samantha Harvey. She hopes to be an integral part of the YCC, working closely with her peers to deliver the best experience possible.

Tilly began First Story in 2018, where their love for poetry and spoken word performance was discovered. They were the Youth Headliner at the Verve Poetry Festival and a Young Producer at the Derby Festival.  Tilly hopes, through the Young Creatives Collective Project, to ensure that all young people feel that they have a space to be whoever they want to be in an open and safe environment. 

Yusra began First Story in 2022 at Skinners Academy, and her involvement spans from taking part in the Young Writers Residential to volunteering at the Young Writers Festival. She was awarded a Folio Academy mentorship, where she explored her identity as a poet. Yusra hopes, through the Young Creatives Collective, to deliver a zine that inspires the youth – just as First Story continuously inspires her.