Andrea Chmelik
Andrea Chmelik is a writer, speaker and activist. Her short stories and essays have been published in anthologies, local press and online media. She is currently working on a young adult fantasy novel.
Andrea grew up in communist Czechoslovakia, a country that no longer exists. Bearing witness to changing regimes, and both the rise and crumbling of democracy, she is passionate about social activism and community engagement. In 2016, she co-founded Women’s March San Luis Obispo, a women-led nonprofit organization advocating for equal rights and social justice.
As an inspirational public speaker, Andrea has given speeches, led workshops, and been a panelist for numerous organizations, including Central Coast Writers Conference, Ecologistics, Cal Poly Women in Business, the annual Women in Leadership conference, and Change the Status Quo social justice conference. As a content creator and communications professional, she crafts messaging that empowers women, amplifies diverse voices and encourages positive and peaceful action.
Andrea lives on the Central Coast of California with her husband, two kids and two cats. She believes in the power of storytelling, embraces humor, and remains an optimist at heart.
Virtual Workshop Schedule — Register here
Friday, September 25, 2020–2:15 to 3:15 pm
Confronting Social Justice: Writing and Fighting in Times of Crisis
— with Peter Dunne
There comes a time in every writer’s life when the need to speak truth to power presents itself. That time is now. No matter the genre we choose, when we assume the mantle of Writer we acknowledge the unique influence it carries, along with the gravity of its obligations. Truth to power will make waves, and those waves will cause resistance because civil engagement must test morality. Testing morality on a good day is a challenge. In times of crisis, testing morality inflames power. Battle lines are drawn between fear and freedom in chambers of power, on our city’s streets, and at our nation’s borders. Questions arise meant to obfuscate intention, suggesting in the asking, moral malleability. What is ethical? What is necessary force? What are boundaries? Our answers must be loud and clear and immediate. Language defines humanity. In times of crisis our words matter more than ever. Your words matter. Use them.
Saturday, September 26, 2020–9:00 to 10:00 am
It’s Not Easy Being Green: Fake It ’Til You Make It
— with Dayna Bennett
You are never too old or too young to start writing, and you don’t have to be a NYT bestselling author to be successful (although one day you might be just that…if you keep going!) In this class, two optimists who never quit will explain why your voice matters, why your story needs to be told, and why you should never give up on your dream. You ARE a writer, and your audience is waiting for you!
