Liverpool’s Youngest Authors Inspire the Next Generation at World Book Day Creative Workshop

Liverpool, UK — 10 March 2026 — Liverpool Central Library welcomed an inspiring gathering of young creatives this weekend as the first of three World Book Day Creative Workshops led by Liverpool’s youngest published authors — Latoya, Caleb and Destiny Likambi – which was a landmark success.

The event, titled World Book Day Creative Workshop, “Young Voices: Stories That Spark the City,” marked the first workshop in a three-part series celebrating World Book Day and the Liverpool Year of Reading 2026. Hosted by Likambi Global Publishing in partnership with Liverpool Central Library, the initiative places young people at the forefront of inspiring a lifelong love of reading and writing.

The workshop on Saturday 7 March 2026 brought together children, families and aspiring young writers for an engaging afternoon of storytelling, creativity and peer-led mentorship. Participants took part in live readings, guided creative writing sessions and an interactive panel discussion with the young authors, who shared their journeys as published writers and role models for their peers.

The event was honoured by the presence of Natalie Reeves Billing, DL FRSA, Deputy Lieutenant of Merseyside, founder of Builder Book and author, who spoke at the event and presented certificates and prizes to selected young writers during a celebratory recognition ceremony.

As part of the event, seven selected competition winners were recognised for their creativity and effort. Each received a certificate of recognition and a personally autographed copy of one of the young authors’ books, encouraging them to continue reading, writing and developing their creative voice.

The winners now also have the opportunity to access a complimentary coaching session with Dr Sylvia Forchap-Likambi, and to enter a competition to publish alongside the young authors, further supporting the development of emerging young talent.

The three young authors — Latoya, Caleb and Destiny Likambi — were also recognised during the event for their outstanding work and leadership in inspiring young people through literature.

Parents attending the workshop spoke highly about the impact of the event.

One mother whose child received an award described the experience as:

“An amazing opportunity that isn’t common for children. My child receiving an award gave them a platform, exposure and so much more confidence.”

Another parent shared how the workshop positively impacted her family:

“For me and my children, the event was a real confidence booster. It encouraged them to express themselves and believe in their abilities.”

A third mother, who attended to support the young authors and explore her own publishing journey, said:

“The work the young authors are doing is amazing and inspiring. They should keep up the good work. I came to support them and because I also have a book I would like to publish with Likambi Global Publishing.”

Dr Sylvia Forchap-Likambi, mother, mentor, and coach to the young authors, emphasised the impact of youth leadership in creative spaces:

“At the heart of this initiative is the transformational power of peer influence and mentorship. When children see young people like themselves writing books, leading discussions and speaking confidently on literary platforms, they begin to see their own potential reflected back at them. Their confidence grows and they start to believe: ‘If they can do it, so can I.”

The workshop also featured a young writers’ competition, offering participants the opportunity to showcase their creativity and receive recognition for their work. Selected winners received certificates and complimentary books from the young authors, as well as access to a complimentary coaching session with Dr Sylvia Forchap-Likambi.

Through imaginative storytelling, practical writing exercises and interactive discussions, the event empowered participants to discover the power of their own voice, build confidence through creative expression, and experience the joy of reading and writing for pleasure.

The successful launch of the first workshop sets the stage for the remaining two sessions in the series, which will take place on Saturday 14th and 21st March, continuing the mission to ignite creativity and nurture emerging literary talent among young people across Liverpool.

Young Voices: Stories That Spark the City demonstrates a powerful truth: when young people lead with creativity and courage, they inspire their peers and spark a movement that celebrates imagination, storytelling and limitless potential.

Here are some photos of the event: