Facilitation & Workshops
crafted and delivered by J.L. Fizzell
J.L. Fizzell offers writing workshops and facilitation services for schools, libraries, festivals, and community organizations across Northern Ontario. Workshops are available in person throughout Northern Ontario and online across Ontario and Canada.
Each session is thoughtfully structured and responsive to the people in the room—balancing creative skill-building with reflection, play, and connection.
Who These Workshops Are For
These workshops are a strong fit for:
* Public libraries and library systems in Northern Ontario
* Elementary, middle years, secondary, and post-secondary classrooms
* Festivals, cultural events, and community organizations
* Adult writing groups and creative or wellness-adjacent spaces
Programming is adapted to suit participant age, group size, and setting.
Workshop Tyles
Writing Workshops
Creative writing sessions that explore poetry, imagery, voice, and language through accessible prompts and guided exploration. Workshops may include sensory writing, place-based writing, and playful approaches to craft.
Youth & Student Workshops
Age-appropriate writing labs for children, pre-teens, and college students. These sessions support literacy, self-expression, and creative confidence in supportive, low-pressure environments.
Community & Public Programming
Workshops designed for libraries, festivals, and community initiatives, including one-time sessions or short series. Programming can be customized around seasonal themes, community goals, or special events such as Ontario Culture Days.
Formats & Logistics
* In-person facilitation available throughout Northern Ontario
* Virtual workshops available across Ontario and Canada
* One-time workshops, multi-session series, or short residencies
* Sessions typically range from 60–90 minutes but are negotiable based on needs
* Workshops tailored to group age, size, and context
Regional travel within Northern Ontario is considered on a case-by-case basis.
Fascilitation Approach
J.L.’s facilitation style is warm, inclusive, and intentionally structured. With a background in children’s mental health and extensive experience working with diverse age groups, workshops are designed to feel grounded, welcoming, and flexible.
Core principles include:
* Accessibility and inclusivity
* Clear structure paired with creative freedom
* Responsiveness to participant needs and energy
* A belief that voice develops through trust, not performance
The focus is not on producing “perfect” work, but on creating meaningful creative experiences.
Fascilitation Experience
J.L. Fizzell is a poet, author, and experienced facilitator who has led workshops both online and in person through:
* Ontario Culture Days
* Fringe North
* Timmins Public Library
* Espanola Public Library
* Educational institutions ranging from elementary to post secondary
They are the founder and ongoing facilitator of the Paper Town Writers Collective, a Northern Ontario-based writing collective that meets monthly to explore craft, voice, and community. J.L. has facilitated workshops for elementary students, pre-teens, college learners, and adult community groups.
Author Talks & Readings
In addition to workshops, J.L. is available for author talks, readings, and facilitated conversations focused on writing, creativity, and place. These offerings may stand alone or complement workshop programming.
Inquiries & Booking
If you’re interested in booking a workshop or exploring a collaboration – particularly within Northern Ontario – you’re invited to get in touch.
Email: j.l.fizzell@outlook.com
There’s no obligation – just a conversation to explore what might fit your group, community, or event.
J.L. Fizzell 