Tasneem has a degree in Drawing and Painting and a minor in English from OCAD University, but she learned most of what she knows from reading children’s books with her daughter. Her books are Amazon bestsellers in categories such as Children’s Inspirational & Personal Growth and Children’s Books on Manners, among others. She thinks art is a great way to connect with others and make the world a better place, which is why she founded Art Ignite, a non-profit organization that brings art to the masses (or at least to some parts of Toronto).
Tasneem has published digital content for Toronto-based community arts organizations, short stories in The Shallot, a journal of mental health and literature, and several stories, poems, and illustrations in Lived Magazine, a publication about lived experiences in madness and neurodivergence. Her paintings have been exhibited in galleries and cultural places across Toronto, and she has received multiple grants from Ontario-based funders for contributing to the arts community.
As a South Asian artist, educator, and mother living with a disability, Tasneem aspires to create books that celebrate differences and encourage positive change. She lives with her husband and daughter in Wasaga Beach, Ontario, and can be found online at TasneemDairywala.com.
Tasneem is a master storyteller who loves to share her picture books with young audiences. She reads them with such passion and enthusiasm that the children can’t help but be inspired to create their characters. They use their imagination and creativity to draw their characters and discuss what makes them unique and awesome. Some of them might even have superpowers or secret identities! Depending on how old the children are, they colour their characters or write a mini biography or adventure. It’s a fun and interactive way to learn about storytelling and character development. And who knows, maybe some will become famous authors or illustrators someday!
In this workshop, Tasneem Dairywala, a children’s author-illustrator, will discuss the key elements of a successful children’s story, such as:
- How to choose a topic that suits your audience
- How to create relatable and realistic characters that children will love
- How to incorporate themes, morals, and lessons that will resonate with children and adults alike
You will have the opportunity to ask questions and learn from each other’s experiences. By the end of the workshop, you will better understand how to write impactful children’s stories that will delight your readers.
This workshop is suitable for emerging writers.
In this workshop, Tasneem Dairywala, a children’s author-illustrator, will discuss the key elements of a successful children’s story, such as:
- How to choose a topic that suits your audience
- How to create relatable and realistic characters that children will love
- How to incorporate themes, morals, and lessons that will resonate with children and adults alike
You will have the opportunity to ask questions and learn from each other’s experiences. By the end of the workshop, you will better understand how to write impactful children’s stories that will delight your readers.
