Mount Hermon Christian Writers Conference

California: March 14-18, 2008

MAI Africa trainer presented Pacesetter Award

Author and publisher Lawrence Darmani, MAI’s Africa regional trainer, was awarded the distinguished Pacesetter Award at the Mount Hermon Christian Writers Conference in California, one of the biggest and longest-running Christian writer conferences in the U.S. The award is presented annually to a writer, editor or publisher who has set an example for others in the industry. "Many at the conference were touched by how much Lawrence has accomplished in such a short time and in spite of many obstacles," said author Robin Gunn, an MAI Board member. She is a past recipient of the award.

Gunn and Darmani team-taught a conference session titled "Effective Habits for a Successful Writing Career." British author (and MAI Europe Trustee) Marion Stroud also participated in the conference.

In his MAI work, Darmani has trained writers, editors and publishers from across Africa, encouraging the creation of locally-produced literature. He will be teaching at MAI’s workshop this May in Bamako, Mali, for 55 writers and booksellers from various countries of francophone Africa.

Darmani is the author of several books, including "Grief Child," which was a Commonwealth award novel, "Blood Invasion" and "One for the Road." His most recent book is "Just Between Us," a series of intimate letters between spouses. He is also the editor of the magazines "Step" and "Surprise," for young adults and children, respectively, and managing editor of Step Publishing.

Cathy Benton, MAI intern