| PRESS RELEASE For Immediate Release Liverpool, UK — 26 March 2026 Liverpool’s Youngest Authors Conclude Highly Successful World Book Day & Liverpool Year of Reading Creative Workshop Series, Inspiring the Next Generation of Young Writers. |
| Highlights of the Creative Workshop Series |
| Liverpool Central Library has been a vibrant home of creativity and inspiration this month as the Young Voices: Stories That Spark the City World Book Day & Liverpool Year of Reading Creative Workshop Series concluded with outstanding success—empowering young people across the city to unlock their creativity and the power of their voice through storytelling. Led by Liverpool’s youngest published authors — Latoya, Caleb, and Destiny Likambi — the three‑part workshop series formed an integral part of the Liverpool Year of Reading 2026 and was hosted by Likambi Global Publishing in partnership with Liverpool Central Library. Designed by young people for young people, the initiative has proven to be a powerful platform for nurturing creativity, confidence, and ambition among children and aspiring young writers. It’s been a transformational three‑week journey. Across three consecutive Saturdays in March, the workshops brought together children, families, and emerging writers for immersive and dynamic sessions featuring: – Live readings and storytelling – Guided creative writing workshops – Interactive panel discussions and Q&A sessions with the young authors – Peer‑led mentorship – A young writers’ competition celebrating emerging talent The series which began on Saturday 7 March, was graced by the Deputy Lieutenant of Merseyside, Mrs Natalie Reeves – Billing DL, who proudly presented the prizes and certificates to the children. It continued with a second highly impactful session on 14 March, and culminated in a celebratory Grand Final on Saturday 21 March 2026. Throughout the programme, young participants were encouraged to explore their imagination freely, develop their writing skills, and build confidence in expressing their ideas. A key highlight of the series was the recognition and celebration of young creative talent. Across the three workshops, 14 young winners were celebrated for their creativity and effort. Each selected participant received: – A Certificate of Recognition – A personally autographed book from the young authors – Access to a complimentary coaching session with Dr Sylvia Forchap‑Likambi – The opportunity to publish alongside the young authors Although Billy Hui BEM DL, High Sheriff of Merseyside, was unable to attend the Grand Final as planned (extending his sincere apologies to the young people), prizes and certificates were proudly presented to the children by Central Library staff on his behalf, ensuring their achievements were meaningfully recognised. The workshops have had a profound impact on children and families in Liverpool and beyond, with many participants highlighting increased confidence, creativity, and belief in their own potential. A parent shared: “It was incredible to see my child so inspired. Seeing young authors leading the workshop made it real for them. They came home excited about writing their own story.” A young participant said: “I didn’t realise I could write stories like that before. Now I want to write my own book one day.” Another parent reflected: “My daughter was very excited to receive an award and a book for her work. It’s the first time in her life she has ever been celebrated for her talents.” Added another parent: “Since the special encounter and truly inspirational workshops with the young authors, my daughter hasn’t stopped reading their books and writing her own stories. Many thanks to the young authors for showing her what is possible and helping her believe in herself.” Dr Sylvia Forchap‑Likambi, mother and mentor/coach of the young authors, emphasised the significance of the initiative: “The impact has been truly transformational. In just three workshops, we have celebrated young creative talent and supported children to recognise their potential and believe in themselves. Seeing young authors like themselves leading and succeeding has ignited a deep sense of confidence and an unwavering belief in what they, too, can achieve.” Michael Likambi added: “We are incredibly proud of the young authors and the young people who took part. This programme is already inspiring children not just across Liverpool, but beyond the city. We are witnessing the seeds of creativity, confidence, and leadership being planted in the next generation.” At the heart of the programme is a powerful message: age is no barrier to creativity, leadership, or success. Through their leadership, Latoya, Caleb, and Destiny Likambi have demonstrated that when young people are given the opportunity to lead, they not only do so with immense confidence and achieve remarkable success — they inspire their peers to believe in themselves and follow in their footsteps. The landmark success of the Young Voices: Stories That Spark the City workshop series marks an important milestone and legacy within Liverpool’s Year of Reading 2026. Beyond the Creative Workshop Series, the initiative has sparked a movement of young visionaries and creatives — one that celebrates imagination, creativity, literature, storytelling, and the limitless potential of young people. As the programme concludes, its impact continues to resonate, leaving behind a new generation of confident, creative young voices ready to shape the future through storytelling. |
Here Are Some of the Highlights From the Creative Workshop Series
| For Media Contact or to Invite the Young Authors |
| Phone: (+44) 7539 216072 |
Find Us On
