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Unlocking Literary Horizons World Book Day Young People’s Symposium Celebrates Landmark Success
“A very inspirational event and talks, showing the children how easy it can be to achieve their dreams or become published authors at any age! Lots of creative stories were produced as the children were given the opportunity to write about whatever their hearts desired.” – Miss Robinson
Yesterday, the Crosby Library was abuzz with excitement as it hosted the Unlocking Literary Horizons World Book Day Young People’s Symposium in celebration of World Book Day 2024. Organised by Likambi Global Publishing in partnership with Crosby Library, the event showcased our city’s youngest authors alongside the world’s youngest author to publish multiple books, Latoya, Caleb, and Destiny Likambi, who have emerged as positive role models for young people globally.
The remarkably inspiring symposium saw over 120 students from two different schools participate in two sessions throughout the day and brought together phenomenal young minds to celebrate the power of creativity, inspire a love for reading and writing and literary success. The day commenced with the arrival of schools and students, followed by a warm welcome and introduction of the young authors by Joe Goff of Sefton Library, setting the tone for the enlightening sessions ahead. Dr Sylvia Forchap-Likambi, Mum and Coach to the young authors, provided an overview of Likambi Global Publishing and introduced the esteemed Likambi siblings and authors, Latoya, Caleb, and Destiny Likambi.
The highlight of the event was the inspirational talks delivered by the Likambi authors, who shared their journeys and insights into the world of writing and publishing. Attendees were captivated by their stories and motivated to pursue their own creative aspirations. Importantly, the authors’ inspirational talks also touched on unwavering confidence, self-belief, the importance of healthy and empowering relationships and environments, peer mentoring, and the significance of positive role models. These talented and gifted young authors, besides being positive role models for children globally, are leading young voices in the literary world.
Following the talks, attendees had the opportunity to engage in interactive and dynamic reading and creative writing workshops, fostering creativity and encouraging literary exploration. A panel and Q&A session with the Likambi authors provided a platform for further discussion and interaction, allowing attendees to gain valuable insights and advice.
The day concluded with a special book signing session, where attendees had the chance to meet the authors and obtain autographed copies of their books with Crosby Library offering the participating schools half a dozen of the authors’ books each. Two well-deserved winners from each creative writing session were also awarded free autographed books of their choice with bespoke messages from the authors, adding to the excitement of the day.
Destiny Likambi, the world’s youngest author to publish multiple books, made her debut at the age of five and has since continued to inspire with her literary achievements. Caleb Likambi, who debuted as an author at the age of 12, has already published an impressive collection of books, with more scheduled for release this year. Latoya Likambi, in addition to her writing accomplishments, has established her own organic skincare and cosmetics brand, Teyes Eye, and co-founded Likambi Global Publishing.
The symposium was a testament to the power of literature in shaping young minds and fostering creativity. Our heartfelt gratitude goes out to the Crosby Library, Likambi Global Publishing, the participating schools, the phenomenal young attendees, and, of course, the incredibly inspirational Likambi authors for making the event a landmark success.
Here are some of the testimonies:
“What a remarkably inspirational event. Seeing the young authors so confident and knowledgeable was wonderful. We were equally amazed at how engaged our students were. During the creative writing session, when they were given the opportunity to explore their imaginations and write freely (which is something they had never experienced in school, as we usually have rules they must adhere to), It really took the students beyond boundaries and limitations, resulting in some incredible work they have not been able to produce before. This was powerful.” – School Teacher
“A very inspirational event and talks, showing the children how easy it can be to achieve their dreams or become published authors at any age! Lots of creative stories were produced as the children were given the opportunity to write about whatever their hearts desired.” – Miss Robinson
“We learnt how to become authors.” – Kegan, age 8
“I had a nice time listening to the inspirational authors.” – Stella, age 8
“This was the best World Book Day I have ever had. Because they are just children like us, we believe we can also achieve all our dreams just like the authors.” – Jack, age 11
A week after the Symposium: “My daughter is hard at work writing her first book as she was really inspired by your children, especially Destiny! I’ll be in touch once it’s finished.” Mum of 8-year.old Sophie
For further information or media inquiries, please contact the authors’ mum and coach, Dr Sylvia Forchap-Likambi:
Dr Sylvia Forchap Likambi, Co-founder and consultant, Likambi Global Publishing Tel: +44 (0) 7539216072 Email: forchaps@voiceofnations.org.uk, enquiries@likambiglobalpublishing.com
The Likambi authors are available for interviews and to deliver author visits, inspirational talks, masterclasses, creative writing and reading/storytelling workshops, confidence-building workshops, peer-mentoring and bespoke programs for your school/ students