The Art of Storytelling: Insights from the Central Florida Writers' Convention

ORLANDO, FL — This past weekend, writers of all backgrounds and genres gathered at the Central Florida Writers’ Convention to share their experiences, exchange ideas, and, most importantly, celebrate the art of storytelling. The event, hosted at the Orange County Convention Center, featured a diverse lineup of keynote speakers, panel discussions, and hands-on workshops designed to inspire both aspiring and seasoned writers alike.

One of the convention’s highlights was a keynote speech by bestselling author Richard L. Foster, who emphasized the importance of authentic storytelling. “Readers don’t just want a good story—they want truth, even in fiction,” Foster said. “The best writing comes from a place of honesty, even when we’re creating entire worlds from scratch.”

Panels covered a range of topics, from world-building in fantasy and science fiction to crafting compelling characters in literary fiction. A particularly popular session, ‘The Future of Journalism in a Digital Age,’ sparked lively discussion among attendees about the role of social media in modern reporting. Panelist and investigative journalist Lisa Tran spoke about the importance of maintaining credibility in an era of clickbait and misinformation. “The responsibility of a journalist hasn’t changed,” she said. “Our job is to inform, not to sensationalize.”

For many, the real magic of the convention happened outside the panels—conversations in the hallways, impromptu brainstorming sessions, and the chance to connect with fellow writers. “Writing can be isolating,” said attendee Marcus Rowe, an independent author. “Coming to events like this reminds me that I’m not alone in this journey.”

The convention concluded with an open mic night, where writers had the opportunity to share their work. Poetry, short stories, and personal essays filled the room with a blend of laughter, reflection, and inspiration.

For those who missed this year’s event, organizers have already announced plans for next year’s convention, promising an even bigger lineup of speakers and workshops. Whether you’re an established writer or just starting out, one thing is clear—the passion for storytelling is alive and well in Central Florida.

— Alex L. Valegro, UCF Sentinel