Learn from the Best with Tyee's Fall Master Classes

The Tyee is pleased to announce a brand new lineup of Tyee Master Classes for fall 2015, with eight opportunities to learn from some of The Tyee's most accomplished contributors and collaborators.

In day-long, intensive weekend workshops held in downtown Vancouver, students can learn about writing, online campaigning, how to earn media coverage and give great interviews, create compelling graphics, tell stories with photos, and more.

Each of our instructors has crafted an in-depth lesson plan informed by their experience working in the field. Expect to learn through both dialogue and doing. Classes include seminar-style instruction, interactive Q&A, hands-on break-out sessions and personalized feedback, with a promise to leave empty catch-phrases and sleep-inducing slideshows at home.

These aren't your stuffy professional development seminars -- refreshments and tasty catering set the mood for interactive, flexible, high-impact lessons you can't find anywhere else.

Join us in the beautiful Post at 750 studios, and enjoy complimentary coffee from Salt Spring Coffee and a catered lunch courtesy of Choices. Have a well-deserved beer provided by Howe Sound Brewing at the end of the day with your instructor and classmates.

The first class starts on Sept. 19, so make sure you sign up fast! Space is limited and classes sell out.

Taking the Fictional Leap: How to Write Your Story and Get It Published
With Zsuzsi Gartner, Sept. 19.

In this intensive one-day master class with acclaimed author and editor Zsuzsi Gartner, participants will explore some of contemporary fiction's seemingly endless possibilities. Learn how to shake off the shackles of what "really" happened (which can inhibit authentic fiction writing) and take the imaginative leap, transforming autobiography, real-life inspirations, and even current events into satisfying stories or the seeds of a novel. Register now. Learn more.

Non-Fiction Writing with Maximum Impact: Master Storyteller John Vaillant's Secrets
With John Vaillant, Sept. 26.

How to measure the power of a story? By the way it seizes both heart and mind. Learn acclaimed author John Vaillant's secrets to finding and weaving together compelling plots, vivid characters and urgent truths.

His bestselling books The Golden Spruce (about B.C. forests and culture) and The Tiger (about the endangered Siberian tiger) have grabbed global attention for social and environmental issues not by simply piling up journalistic facts but by folding his reporting into irresistible sagas, with human mystery and natural wonder at their centres. John will take you through his honed process, sharing techniques you can employ to bring your issues-based writing to life and connect with broad audiences.

Class sponsor: Canadian Media Guild. Register now. Learn more.

Freelancer's Survival Guide: What You Need to Know as an Independent Creative Worker
With Don Genova, Oct. 3.

Freelancing can be a great way to work on interesting, creative projects for a variety of clients. As any long-term freelancer will tell you, though, you need to learn the skills to drum up good jobs, protect yourself legally, and work with good clients. In this one-day master class taught by writer and broadcaster Don Genova, participants will get a run-down of the crucial survival skills you need to know to make it in the world of freelancing.

This class is co-presented with Canadian Media Guild. Learn more.

Responsible Journalism: Defamation Law for Editors and Writers
With Leo McGrady, Oct. 17.

Nothing ruins a person's day like the threat of a libel lawsuit. In this master class, media lawyer Leo McGrady will go over defamation law in Canada, and what you need to know to protect yourself. Learn important defenses for journalists, copyright, fair dealing, as well as legal legislation pertinent to reporters and editors. This class will equip you with the tools necessary to know your rights and the rights of others when it comes to breaking stories and hot headlines. Register. Learn more.

Memecamp! How to Create Content that Inspires Change
With Heather Libby, Oct. 24.

Looking to make a splash on social media? Simple, well-timed graphics have the power to take your message far and wide. In this master class, join master communicator Heather Libby and learn how to create powerful shareable graphics that your online community will love to share. Register. Learn more.

Marvellous Media Moments: Pitching and Interviews Made Easy
With James Boothroyd, Nov. 7.

Tweet, post, blog all you like; but good coverage in influential print and broadcast media can still catapult your issue onto the public agenda (as social media seldom do). But to earn that coverage, you need to know how reporters and producers think, how to frame your comments, and how to ensure your hands -- blouse, lapel, etc. -- don't distract. This briskly paced, practical session will help you understand the challenges, prepare for the worst, and nail your sound bites. Register. Learn more.

Getting Started with NationBuilder
With Josh Stuart and Stefan Avlijas, Nov. 14.

Just showing up online with a Twitter and an Instagram account doesn't count as a digital strategy. Modern online campaigns require finesse, and a thoughtfully laid out plan for engaging with folks online. Whether you're a non-profit working to raise the profile of an issue or you're a new candidate for local office: NationBuilder gives you the tools you need to set you apart from the herd when it comes to turning an online presence into real world wins. Register. Learn more.

Visual Journalism
With John Lehmann, Nov. 21.

In this master class, participants will learn a solid approach to documentary photography from master visual storyteller John Lehmann, staff photojournalist for the Globe and Mail. Whether your goal is to become a better street photographer or simply photographing your children this workshop will take you to the next level.

Class sponsor: Canadian Media Guild. Register. Learn more.

Questions? Email Jeanette Ageson at [email protected].