How one emerging Black writer was inspired to put pen to paper

By Lindsay Ruck

Starting to write is sometimes the biggest hurdle. That first sentence. Those first few pages. Or even that first vote of confidence from someone who says they believe in you is all it takes to get going. This is true for Paula Russell, whose dream of writing a book began in 1991.

“I have always wanted to write,” says Paula. “I had previously taken other writing courses but found it difficult to balance work and writing.”

But sometimes timing, and the right environment, make all the difference. Enter The Ink Collective: an initiative founded by Halifax-based award-winning author, Andre Fenton. In 2025, The Ink Collective put out a call to emerging Black writers asking them to submit, among other documents, a letter of intent and a sample of their work. Paula heard about The Ink Collective through the Nova Scotia Sisterhood. She eagerly applied without hesitation and was thrilled when she learned she had been accepted as one of the participants.

The Ink Collective’s goal is to support Black writers throughout their creative process. This is done through mentorship-style sessions that bring writers together at the Bus Stop Theatre Co-op in the north end of Halifax. Writers share ideas and progress, take part in workshops led by other writers and creators in the community, and receive support and advice on the world of publishing. Each participant was even provided time with a photographer for professional headshots.

“I found a comfortable place with like-minded people,” says Paula. “I found inspiration and direction. My writing found focus and structure.”

With this new-found supportive community, Paula began drafting her novel. The science fiction manuscript is centred around a society that discriminates based on scent.

“I love science fiction. For years, I thought I would write a romance, but this idea spoke to me. The idea came during one of The Ink Collective meetings.”

Paula found her writing groove while part of The Ink Collective, which she officially began in May 2025. And she proudly shares she didn’t just start her novel; she finished it.

“I wrote 74,000 words. I hope to start approaching publishers soon.”

Paula says The Ink Collective is what brought her out of the starting blocks and all the way to the finish line.

“These kinds of initiatives are critical. This venue gave attendants a place to collaborate, inspire, and support each other. We had a safe place to talk about topics with people who have experienced it. Normally, sharing topics like discrimination, vulnerability, and social ostracism is met with dissuasion, skepticism, and disbelief. Without this venue, writers feel isolated and alone. It helps us find our voices.”

Paula’s positive experience as a participant of The Ink Collective is just one of many. And the good news is, there will be many more to come, as Fenton shares he’s gearing up to launch season two soon.

The Ink Collective isn’t just about writing; it’s about connecting and belonging. And the community it created will no doubt be one of the most powerful stories these budding writers will ever tell.

Atlantic Books Today is honoured to partner with Andre Fenton and the Ink Collective to bring this story to our readers. We look forward to celebrating the future publications of The Ink Collective alumni.