Justin Valentin is the new chairman of the Seychelles Writers Association, IROGRIF.

Mr Valentin, along with other new members of the association's executive committee, was elected during the body's annual meeting held last Saturday at the Creole Institute, Au Cap.

The other elected members are Andrea Mounac (vice-chairman), Marie Cecile Benstrong (treasurer), Liz Morel (secretary), Reuben Lespoir and Mary Clarisse.

Speaking to The Arts page earlier this week, vice-chairman Mounac said that, besides electing the new committee, last Saturday's meeting also discussed the participation of the association in local and international events, as well as its future activities.

Founded 20 years ago, the writers' association has seen many changes in literature in Seychelles including numerous awards won by local poets and some international recognition.                             

"The meeting provided an opportunity for us to exchange ideas, analyze our trials, accomplishments and future aspirations," said Mr Mounac, who is also Head of the Literature Unit at the National Arts Council.    

With 30 active members and a fully charged programme for this year, the association begins its calendar with its upcoming 20th anniversary in March.

There have also been a few changes regarding the functioning of the association such as instead of releasing its usual newsletter every three months; it will now produce a yearly publication comprising the work of its members.

Mr Mounac has launched an appeal to any writer or poet who would like to contribution either short stories, poems or essays to its publication to get into contact with the literature unit at the National Arts Council NAC.                                                                                        

The association, Mr Mounac said, also plans to become more active in the various activities organised nationally such as the Arts Festival, the Festival Kreol, forums and other events through which Seychellois writers and poets can express their talents.

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