Deborah V

My Passion & How I Inspire

I believe that everybody has the ability to be a strong writer. Instead of going by a set of guidelines, I treat every student as an individual with their own set of strengths and struggles so that the largest amount of progress can be made.

A significant part of writing is the desire to write; a stumbling block is the fear of failure. I focus on developing passion and building confidence as well as fine-tuning fundamental skills. Everyone is starting from a different position, so we will work together to tell a new story or understand an existing one.

I believe the best tutors are actively working in their field. As a working writer with production credits, reviews, and ongoing projects, I am so excited about sharing my passion and knowledge with my students.

Whether it’s revision for an exam or a push to write the next draft, I want to inspire everyone to enhance and develop their love of language.

My Experience

My creative writing journey started in high school, with the production of my first one-act play (a comedy about monsters coming to life on Halloween) at a student run theatre festival. After the first time I heard an audience of peers and strangers laugh at a line I had written, I was hooked. I have been a writer, teacher and editor ever since.

As a tutor, I want to help others achieve that same sense of pride in their work. I started mentoring and coaching students in the art of writing and performance in high school because my passion for sharing is as strong as my passion for creating.

I have taught creative writing, film, and English. I have also coached improv teams that have gone on to win national competitions, directed plays for festivals, and worked with numerous writers in order to develop their skills and get their projects to the next stage.

From comedy to creative writing to cleverly inserted alliteration, I can help you on your journey with the English language.

Subjects That I Teach

  • Creative Writing
  • Drama
  • English

My Qualifications

BFA in Creative Writing from the University of British Columbia (4.0 GPA)

University of Edinburgh (exchange through UBC)

High school diploma from University Hill Secondary School (Principal’s List)

Awards and Grants:

Nomination for Best New Musical (Vancouver Ovation Awards 2016)

Vancouver Pick of the Fringe Winner 2016

In Tune YouTube Musical Competition Winner 2015

Early Career Dramaturg Travel Grant Recipient 2015

Creative Writing Award Recipient (for highest grade)

Fun fact

I am a Canadian import that has travelled to over forty countries!