Arkbound’s innovative workshop series, 'Our Economy', is opening doors for typically marginalised communities to engage in economic discussions through creative writing. This unique approach is not just about learning but about fostering change and amplifying voices that are often unheard.

By Devon McCole | Photos by Benjamin Bergers

“Often, people from ethnic minorities, those who’ve been long-term unemployed, or those on low incomes aren’t invited into discussions about the economy, yet, it’s something that affects everyone, especially those who are disadvantaged.” Those are the words of Arkbound coordinator, Romy St John, talking about the reasons behind the recent workshop series they organised in The Community Newsroom here in Govanhill.

Arkbound is a small publishing charity based in both Bristol and Glasgow. Their focus is on widening access to the publishing and media industries.They achieve this through various initiatives, including writing mentorship programs like Bridging Literary Divides, which pairs individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds with writing mentors, and Writing Within Walls, a mentorship program for prisoners.

Their latest series of workshops centred on creative writing and the economy, underscores their focus on using the written word as a means of fuelling social change and inclusion. In an age where economic discourse is often confined to experts and policy-makers, Arkbound is breaking the mould. The initiative not only invites participation, but aims to foster creativity and confidence.

Romy explains that the idea stems from a recognition of the exclusion many disadvantaged groups face when it comes to economic discussions, despite it being an area that significantly impacts their lives.

This observation led Arkbound to the creation of a space where these diverse individuals can share their ideas on how the economy could work better for them and their communities.This approach, pairing both economic discourse with creative writing, initially puzzled Romy. However, as she delved deeper into the project, she saw the “synergy” between the two “If you’re writing about the economy and alternative economic theories, being able to articulate your ideas creatively can be incredibly powerful.”

Participants in the workshop, like Kirsten McAlleece, provide testament to the impact this initiative is having. Kirsten, a lifelong writer, joined the workshop with the hope of meeting fellow writers and perhaps getting something published.

Although experienced, she found herself challenged by the creative writing exercises, particularly due to her dyslexia and MS. Despite these hurdles, Kirsten remains motivated, inspired by the workshop discussions, and is eager to explore new writing ideas.

”I was mostly keen just to meet other writers and see if I can write something that's good enough to actually get published,” she says. “I always think it's a tricky thing, to write creatively. But when Michelle (a speaker at one of the creative writing workshops) was giving us a chat and talking, that was inspiring me to write something. I'm thinking of writing like a sonnet or a short story.”

The workshop isn’t just about learning; it’s also about community. The discussions are participant-led, allowing for a diversity of voices and ideas to flourish. As Romy puts it: “We don’t need people to have ready-formed ideas about how the economy should work. What’s important is an interest in discussing these issues and a willingness to learn.”

Peter Mohan, who volunteered to help during some of the workshops, and who is well-known for his blog ‘Cheers, Govanhill!’, was drawn to the workshop by its unusual combination of topics. His role may be humble –setting up chairs, making tea – but he sees immense value in the initiative:

“It’s good to have organisations like Arkbound that encourage people to get their writings published…What’s unique about this workshop is that there’s a sense of reward at the end. These participants are getting paid for their contributions to the final published piece. I think that’s fantastic.”

The workshop’s content is as varied as its participants. Topics range from community currencies to post-market economies, and care-centred economies – with discussions led by experts in these fields. One highlight for Peter was a lively debate on the Bristol Pound, a community currency initiative that sparked intense conversation among the group. These discussions are not just theoretical; they are grounded in the lived experiences of the participants, making them all the more relevant and impactful.

As the workshop progresses, the participants will have the opportunity to publish their work in an anthology – a paid opportunity that could be the first step towards a writing career. The anthology will likely be an eclectic mix, reflecting the diverse backgrounds and interests of the participants. Whether it’s fiction, non-fiction, poetry, or essays, the aim is to create a publication that is as accessible and varied as the voices it represents.

Arkbound’s mission is clear: to widen access to the publishing and media industries. Their work, whether through mentorship programs or workshops, consistently challenges the barriers that prevent more marginalised voices from being heard. This workshop is no exception, offering a platform for participants to explore how the economy can better serve them, all while developing their creative writing skills.

In a world where economic discussions often feel out of reach, Arkbound is making them accessible, relatable, and above all, inclusive. Through this innovative workshop, participants are not just learning about the economy, they’re learning how to shape it, one story at a time.

If you would like to know more about Arkbound you can visit their website at arkbound.com

This piece is an advertorial – meaning Greater Govanhill has received payment for writing and publishing it.