Simi's Write Back Story

My experience at Write Back has been nothing short of inspiring. I have always considered it a second home; a place where I can be in any state of mind and still feel like me. I have been able to grow and blossom with encouragement and support since I first joined during my early GCSEs, up until now, four years later, having now finished sixth form. Not only have I been able to grow independently but also alongside my many peers, some of which I am proud to be able to call my best friends. Having grown, learnt, loved and prospered, there is nothing I would change about my experience as a member of this group.

Whilst Write Back has allowed me to blossom in such an undoubtably welcoming social space, it has also had numerous benefits in regards to my academic choices and pursuit of further education. From being just another super curricular activity to add to my CV, to being one of my most valued experiences, Write Back has launched my confidence to a level that I never would have imagined for myself. Being a published author now in nearly 8 books - each one has been an emotional milestone - has meant that I am now seen through a lens of recognition and admiration of my competence and skill by anyone who I tell about my achievements in Write Back.

Aside from the writing itself, I can confidently say that one of the main reasons I continue to attend is to see our lovely, kind, and warm-hearted session leaders, Sam and Ria. Who knew that one bite-size chocolate, or one starburst picked out of the share bag could put such a smile on a person’s face? As thankful as I am for the sweets and snacks the leaders at Write Back have proven so much more to us. Every question, every comment, every single statement, a glance even! All met with the most humanising amount of care, consideration and attention. Sam has never failed to attend to the worries and concern of every single Write Back member, including myself. More things that showed a truly felt kind of empathy. Waiting behind for 30 minutes to an hour, just to talk, just to listen, to read a poem or two, to discuss the future, to discuss the present. There is an inexplicable and unteachable kind of compassion and understanding shared within the four walls where our famous Write Back is held.

Write Back is where I am seen as a writer, a poet, a student, a published author, and a teenager all at once. 

Write Back is where I am seen.