At this week’s Writing Works event, we learned to turn our frustrations, viewpoints, and passionate beliefs into an Op-Ed during this workshop led by Girls Write Now mentee alum and recent New York University graduate Romaissaa Benzizoune! Romaissaa’s work has been published by The New York Times, Teen Vogue, Buzzfeed, McSweeney’s, and more. Previously, she had led a column writing workshop in April 2018 for Girls Write Now mentees, and was an emcee for our 2020 Girls Write Now Graduation Gala.

This workshop is part of Writing Works, Girls Write Now’s workforce development program, matching young women and gender nonconforming youth with professionals across a broad range of industries, including behind-the-scenes experiences with HBO/Warner, Penguin Random House, the Royal Bank of Canada, Fresh beauty, and many more.

ATTENDEE TESTIMONIALS AND STATS

• I really loved hearing Romaissaa’s story, how she found writing, what she writes now and why loves it. Getting to hear her read a piece of hers was incredible too!
• The speaker was great and I appreciated what she brought to the table. Super kind and welcoming environment.
• This was my first Zoom session with GWN. It was inspiring to see so many women writers who have the same desires and questions that I do.
• I love the work you are doing and will keep watching whatever you produce–thank you for being such a valuable resource during the pandemic!!!!
• [My favorite part was] hearing Romaissaa’s story in pitching! It helped me feel that I could navigate my own path into the op-ed world.

Overall increases before and after the workshop:

• 414% increase in number of attendees that knew how to effectively pitch an Op-Ed
• 300% increase in number of attendees that knew tips for writing Op-Eds
• 223% increase in number of attendees that understood what components go into an Op-Ed