Workshop - Exploring Big Ideas with Little Humans - the power of story for young people

A Workshop with international award winning Australian children's author Michelle Worthington. Use the power of story to help young people navigate complex, emotional landscapes.

Children’s literature has a unique ability to explore the human condition through stories that are accessible, hopeful, and emotionally resonant. In this practical workshop, writers will learn how to approach complex topics such as grief, identity, disability, belonging, and resilience in ways that respect and empower young readers. Through discussion, examples, and writing exercises, participants will gain tools to create authentic stories that foster empathy, connection, and understanding.

Michelle Worthington is an award-winning Australian author, producer, editor, and advocate whose work champions diversity, inclusion, and authentic storytelling. Best known for her internationally published children’s books, she explores themes of belonging, resilience, disability, family, and self-discovery. As an autistic creator and parent of neurodivergent children, Michelle brings a unique perspective to conversations about creativity, identity, and the human condition.

Through her writing, filmmaking, and mentoring, Michelle helps create stories that foster empathy, connection, and understanding. Her lived experience informs both her writing and her commitment to creating authentic, accessible stories that help readers better understand themselves and others.

Beyond publishing, Michelle is the founder of Clann Productions, an independent Australian production company dedicated to inclusive storytelling across film, digital media, and children’s content. She is a passionate mentor who works with emerging writers and creators to develop meaningful stories that resonate across generations.

Whether writing for children, producing films, or speaking at festivals and conferences, Michelle’s work is driven by a belief that stories have the power to foster empathy, challenge assumptions, and celebrate the richness of what it means to be human.

Discover more about the Eumundi Writers Festival here: https://eumundiwritersfestival.com.au/