Intro to Op-ed Writing
Intro to Op-ed Writing
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Intro to Op-ed Writing is a 2.5-hour interactive workshop designed for community activists, professionals, and community leaders. Participants will gain practical skills to write compelling op-eds, identify their unique perspective, and turn their expertise and lived experience into persuasive media pieces.
Through guided exercises and group discussion, participants will practice brainstorming topics, crafting hooks and structures, and analyzing real op-eds. The session also covers pitching strategies, timing, and audience, giving participants a practical roadmap to publication.
By the end of the workshop, participants will leave with a concrete op-ed premise, a clear plan for structuring their piece, and confidence to start writing with impact.
Why This Workshop Matters for IBPOC
Why This Workshop Matters for IBPOC
This workshop equips participants with the tools to write and publish impactful opinion editorials, ensuring that IBPOC voices are represented in Canadian media. By participating in this training, individuals gain the skills, confidence, and strategies to influence public dialogue, shape narratives, and contribute critically and meaningfully to media and community conversations.
Workshop Outline
Workshop Outline
What is an op-ed?
Types of op-eds
Generating ideas and finding your premise
Crafting strong hooks and ledes
Structure and elements of a compelling op-ed
Pitching to editors: timing, strategy, and publication tips
What's Included
What's Included
2.5 hours of facilitation (online or in person)
Tailored curriculum and materials
Resource package for participants
Self-review guide
Testimonials from Past Participants
Testimonials from Past Participants
“I loved the practical-ness of it all! I came into this workshop wanting to know how to write an op-ed and that's exactly what I got. I am super happy!”
“I loved the practical-ness of it all! I came into this workshop wanting to know how to write an op-ed and that's exactly what I got. I am super happy!”
“Exercises were really helpful, to apply what we had just learned. Size of workshop made it more intimate, less intimidating and gave everyone a chance to really participate.”
“Exercises were really helpful, to apply what we had just learned. Size of workshop made it more intimate, less intimidating and gave everyone a chance to really participate.”
“It was practical. I learned by example.”
“It was practical. I learned by example.”
Organizations We've Worked With
Organizations We've Worked With
About the Instructor
About the Instructor
Melody Yun Ya Ma is a community organizer and public writer. She was a contributing columnist for Toronto Star and The Tyee, and a regular contributor to Rungh magazine. Her writing has also been published in The Globe and Mail, Vancouver Sun, and other national, local, and industry publications. She has also helped many activists edit their op-eds and get them published. Melody currently serves on the board of The Tyee and is a fellow of the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations and EU Global Cultural Relations Programme.
Investment
Investment
The workshop is priced flexibly to meet different needs: individuals can register per participant, or organizations can book a flat rate for their team. Sliding scale options are available to ensure accessibility for all participants.
Contact
Contact
Interested in hosting a workshop for your organization? Contact us at info@criticalalternatives.org to start a conversation.
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