What does it really take to break into the creative industries when you’re still finding your voice? How can writing build connection, community and change in a world that feels like it’s shifting every day?
In this free, all-ages event, four successful young creatives share how they got started — and what they’ve learned along the way.
Nevo Zisin published their memoir Finding Nevo at just 21, and has since become a leading voice on identity and gender, running workshops with young people across the country; Jumaana Abdu began her Stella Prize-shortlisted debut Translations while still in her early 20s; Jasmin McGaughey is the author of Ash Barty’s Little Ash series and has just released her debut YA fantasy Moonlight and Dust, and illustrator Bill Hope went from commercial gigs to publishing his own graphic novel, and now works on Andy Griffiths’ best-selling children’s books.
Come for the stories, stay for the inspiration: this is a chance to meet young artists making waves right now — and to imagine your own creative future.
Nevo Zisin is a white Ashkenazi Jewish settler living on unceded Wurundjeri Land. They are a storyteller, esteemed educator on transgender topics, TEDx speaker, poet, workshop facilitator in schools and workplaces, and award-winning author of Finding Nevo.
Jumaana Abdu is the author of Translations which was shortlisted for the Stella Prize, the MUD Literary Prize, and a NSW Premier's Literary Award. She was named Sydney Morning Herald Best Young Novelist in 2025.
Jasmin McGaughey is a Torres Strait Islander and African American writer and editor. She is the author of the Little Ash series presented by Ash Barty and illustrated by Jade Goodwin and the recipient of a Queensland Premier's Young Publishers and Writers Award in 2023. Her debut YA novel is Moonlight and Dust.
Bill Hope is an artist and illustrator living in the Blue Mountains. His career in commercial illustration has had him working with everyone from Amazon to Disney. He has published a number of books for children and held a series of solo exhibitions.
This event is made possible by Blue Mountains City Council as part of their grant-funded Safe to Be In Our Community program of free activities, helping our community keep each other safe.
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Tickets for this event are free, however, registration is required to manage room capacity.
Registration for this event will be available from 10am 9 September.
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This venue is wheelchair accessible. Please visit our Accessibility page or email hello@bluemountainswritersfestival.com.au if you have any other accessibility requirements.