Orthodox women’s writers’ retreat
Jewish women from across Australia are invited to fill in the expression of interest form.
Dreaming of escaping to a writers’ retreat? Well the Jewish Orthodox Feminist Alliance (JOFA Australia) is hosting an inaugural writers’ retreat in the Yarra Valley from May 23-25, offering aspiring women writers the chance to connect with like-minded individuals, and foster their creative and spiritual growth.
“This is the first time that a writers’ weekend of this nature has been held in Australia, and we are so pleased to be able to support women to create works of Torah related to women’s health, encompassing mental, spiritual and physical health,” said JOFA Australia president Nomi Kaltmann.
The writers’ retreat is supported by Glen Eira City Council and the Chessed Foundation, and includes two nights’ accommodation, full Shabbat programming and all meals, and has space for 12 participants. It is subsidised at $180 and is aimed at women aged between 25 and 40. Participants will have a chance to learn from a range of writing experts and authors and participate in workshops. Award-winning author and playwright Elise Esther Hearst will be running a writing workshop for participants. Within four weeks of the weekend, it aims for women to submit a piece for publication.
Jewish women from across Australia are invited to fill in the expression of interest form. Places are limited and will be assessed based on merit of application, writing experience and topics.
“We need more female voices in print,” said Kaltmann. “JOFA Australia would like to encourage women to write about their experiences and ensure that their voices are heard,” she said.
JOFA Australia seeks to expand the spiritual, ritual and intellectual opportunities for women within the framework of halachah (Jewish law), by advocating meaningful participation for women in family life, synagogues, houses of learning and Jewish communal organisation’s to the fullest extent possible.
Since launching four years ago, JOFA Australia has provided opportunities to Australian women that actively promote leadership and support women’s Torah learning, public speaking, teaching and engagement. To date, 250 Australian women from six Australian states and territories have received scholarships to complete training courses about Judaism.
To submit an expression of interest for the Writers Retreat, visit RB.GY/41R74M
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