Anja Kuipers recently joined 826DC as our Public Programs Coordinator! She’s the magic behind the lowercase, 826DC’s monthly open mic night for local writers, authors, and poets. We hope you’ll all get a chance to meet her at one of our upcoming lowercases, held on the first Wednesday evening of each month. In the meantime, check out this Q&A to get to know Anja a little better:
Role: Public Programs Coordinator
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Hometown: Hilo, Hawaii
What drew you to 826DC?
I moved to DC a year ago to intern at a dance organization but was secretly keeping an eye out for ways to connect with the creative writing community. While looking for youth-focused nonprofits, I stumbled across 826DC and was immediately blown away. Their mission was closely aligned with my values and goals, and I knew that I wanted to contribute to 826DC’s work in some way.
Who is your favorite author right now?
Tommy Pico!
If you were a magician, what would be your signature magic trick?
Escaping from chains while locked in a water tank.
What inspired you to get involved with this kind of work, and why do you think it’s so important?
I’m involved with writing and literature in a number of different ways but feel most strongly about the work that 826DC is doing. In order for the literary community to thrive, we need to make sure that kids of all backgrounds have access to creative writing instruction. By addressing issues of access and providing mentorship for youth, we’re working to create a more diverse, inclusive, and talented literary future.