This month, ETA Andre Edmond hosted a workshop at SMAN 1 Praya to prepare participants for his local WORDS Storytelling and Writing competition. His counterpart, Ibu Marissa Renny, assisted the session. The two focused on the specifics of storytelling and helped students brainstorm ideas for their own unique presentations.

The session began with a brief breakdown of the 2026 National WORDS competition theme, “My Community.” Following the introduction, students were asked to share with a partner what they felt the theme meant to them. Students then shared various ideas, including the extracurricular clubs they participate in. Larger concepts were also discussed, with students mentioning their respective Indonesian heritage – most commonly the Sasak culture of Lombok, as well as several East Javanese backgrounds. Students gained a clear understanding of how to brainstorm a non-fictional or fictional story outline. This workshop thoroughly prepared them to begin drafting their stories for the local WORDS competition, enhancing their creative writing skills in English.

Andre plans to host two more workshop sessions to ensure participating students are ready to perform their final stories for an audience. In addition to improving English writing and speaking skills, future workshops will emphasize public speaking and acting with passion.

Andre Edmond is currently teaching at SMAN 1 Praya, West Nusa Tenggara.