Students from SMKN 6 Padang began their WORDS Storybook competition journey by participating in multiple WORDS workshops that covered various aspects of writing and performing short stories. ETA Navara Syed had students brainstorm and peer review each other’s stories, encouraging collaboration and confidence in their writing. Workshops began on January 7 and have taken place twice a week since. Along with these workshops, students have also been scheduling one-on-one time with Navara to work on their performances. Together, the students and ETA decide which parts of the story need to be cut and what needs to be further developed.

Once a week, the group discusses problems they are having with their writing. Students brainstorm ideas to help each other while sometimes gaining ideas for their own stories. Through this process, students can problem-solve without relying heavily on the ETA.

SMKN 6 expects to host its WORDS competition in early February 2026.

Navara Syed is currently teaching at SMKN 6 Padang, West Sumatra.