CIT’s popular Northern Lights Writer’s Conference returns for its 10th iteration. Designed to inspire, to build connections and increase sector knowledge, Northern Lights features a blend of panel talks, workshops, in-conversation sessions and advice surgeries all focused on the craft and industry of writing.
This year’s event, hosted by Ric Michael, includes:
Writers & the Impact of AI - Panel Discussion
As new technologies expand into the human realm, this panel discussion looks at what the emergence of AI means for writers, with guests Monica MacSwan (Aitken Alexander Literary Agency), Lisa Holdsworth (screenwriter and former chair, The Writers’ Guild GB) and Daniella Gati (lecturer in Creative Computing, Uni of Salford, author A Queer Theory of AI & Algorithmic Knowledge).
The panel explores themes including what effects AI is having on writers’ career, whether writing is uniquely human, whether an algorithms are reinforcing bias and much more.
Critiquing for Writers - Panel Discussion
All writers will need to respond to their work being critiqued so how can writers use feedback and understand its intention to improve their work?
Scriptwriter Natalie Beech and novelist and editor Melissa Welliver discuss giving and receiving feedback, how editors work with writers, taking criticism and how writers can make the editing process improve their work.
To Self-Publish or Not to Self-Publish - Discussion Session
An informal lunchtime chat about the world of independent publishing with Kristina Turner who has recently self-published her first novel, I am Heidi, Skogkatt, A Feline Thriller in Five Parts, via Kindle Direct Publishing, (Amazon).
If you’re thinking about self-publishing or have already self-published, join Kristina for a brew and a chat in this informative introduction to the world of self-publishing.
From Page To Screen - Discussion
This session features publisher Kevin Duffy (Bluemoose Books) in an exploration of how books are optioned for film & TV. In the last 12 months, two Bluemoose books have been optioned for screen production, so what does it mean for a writer? Can authors expect to be involved in the production process and what is the impact on a writers’ career and profile?
Bluemoose titles optioned for film and television include Ronan Hession’s Leonard & Hungry Paul (BBC), Adrian Barnes’ Nod (Fox Searchlight / Disney) and Benjamin Myers’ Beastings (Warp Films / Matriarch Productions).
Poetry for Performance: Engaging Your Audience
This practical workshop, led by Louise Fazackerley, helps poets develop the skills to deliver engaging and confident live readings or performances.
Looking at writing for performance and considering voice, pacing and physical presence, participants will explore how to bring their poems to life and connect with an audience. The session also encourages finding your authentic performance style while building confidence in reading aloud. Ideal for open mics, competitions, or public readings, this workshop begins to equip you with tools to make your poetry performance clear, compelling, and memorable.
Participants should bring one or two of their own poems to work with.
Building Your Digital Audience
Snacky Dan Digital founder Danni Davis alongside radio producer & podcaster Issy Brand are in conversation for this practical talk on how to expand the audience for your writing, looking at creating content for social media, short form storytelling, as well as developing podcasts to explore themes in your work.
This will be an easy-to-follow discussion suitable for all levels of experience.
Writing Competitions, Schemes and Awards: What to apply for and how to make a great application
Writing competitions, schemes, programmes and awards are an incredible way to break into the industry and gain recognition for your work. Yet as new writers we have limited time, whether it’s balancing the demands of your day job, caring for your family or loved ones - or all of the above.
This workshop will help you identify which writing competitions, awards and programmes are worth entering, what will help you achieve your goals, and start preparing you to apply.
Led by writer Natalie Beech, who has made her career off the back of winning writing competitions - the workshop will offer participants tailored support and resources to take home.
Drop-in Advice Sessions
Come and discuss your writing and publishing questions with our pool of talented and experienced writers, including Liz Flanagan, Jazmine Linklater, Okechukwu Nzelu and Melissa Welliver.
These 15 minute sessions are available on a first-come, first-served basis with one session per participant. Sessions are bookable upon arrival at the conference.
Agent 1-2-1s
Apply for an in-person discussion about your work and career with literary agent Monica MacSwan.
Please note: these sessions are 15 minutes in duration.
To apply please email [email protected] with the following information:
- Up to 10 pages from a completed and unpublished manuscript
- Cover message detailing any previous writing background
Application deadline: 17:00, 30 April 2026.
Selected participants will be notified no later than Tuesday 05 May of their places, which will be reserved to ensure availability.
Please note that lunch will not be provided. Drinks and snacks are available at the venue bar. Participants are welcome to bring their own lunch or can visit local food outlets in Sale town centre.
Schedule:
10:00 Introductions
10:15 Writers & the Impact of AI
11:15 Critiquing for Writers
12:15 Lunch* / To Self-Publish or Not to Self-Publish
13:00 From Page To Screen / Poetry for Performance
14:00 Break
14:15 Building Your Digital Audience / Writing Competitions, Schemes and Awards
15:15 Break
15:30 Reflections
16:00 Wrap
*Please note that lunch will not be provided.
For full speakers' details, please visit https://creativeindustriestrafford.net/forthcoming-events/2026/nlwc
