Want to write your life story and capture it, forever? We have the tools to help you start. This introduction is suitable for beginners.

Have you ever wanted to put your life story on paper (or laptop)? Not sure where to begin?

It can be daunting to know where to start and what to include. This is where expert help in a small-class setting can turn the process of chronicling your story easier.

This introductory in-person course, which returns on Saturday 24 October, 2026, is open to adults of all ages. We'll talk about unlocking memory, biography structure, tackling difficult topics, bringing a story to life, what to keep in, what to leave out, and plenty more. You will leave with an overview of how to get started and plenty of motivation to do so. Many participants say the life story workshop has changed their outlook on life, in addition to the writing skills they have learned at the event.

Workshop director Joy Persaud has written for national magazines, newspapers and worked with names such as Bill Bailey, Jenny Agutter, Alfie Boe, Midge Ure, Ben Fogle, Suzi Quatro, Ian Rankin and many more. She has also written the life stories of dozens of so-called ordinary people.

Following the event, workshop participants will be offered the opportunity to book 1-2-1s and/ or a place on a follow-up course to explore their writing in depth, in confidence.

We will be based in the Loft Room, Cornerstone Community Centre, Hove, 2-5pm. Ticket sales strictly limited – book now. Refreshments provided.

Testimonials

You are better than my therapist ~ Jimmy Osmond, following a life story interview

You have changed the way I see the world ~ life story workshop attendee

I feel motivated and as though my story is worth telling ~ life story workshop attendee

Reading it back, there's so much I now realise I have done in my life ~ biography client

Thank you for helping me to capture my voice so well ~ biography client

I loved my sessions with Joy - she is fun and easy to work with, offering me insights into the writing process that I use every day. She has a way of stimulating my thinking that really surprised me. She is very supportive and encouraging - she is outstanding. I can't recommend her enough ~ 1-2-1 editorial coaching client

I don't normally enjoy talking about myself, but you made the process enjoyable ~ business biography client

Description supplied by the event organiser.