My Journey into Haiku and Poetry

My writing journey began along the tranquil flow of the Thames, inspiring my debut collection of haiku, Thames Way, published in 2015 by Alba Publishing. The haiku form, with its ability to distill moments into miniature universes, captured my fascination. This journey deepened in 2018 with A Thousand Sparks, where I explored fleeting impressions and profound sparks of insight. In 2021, I expanded my poetic horizons with The Singing Hollow, my first full-length poetry collection, celebrating life’s depth and resilience.

Over the years, my work has found a home in respected literary journals such as The Stinging Fly, Cyphers, and Crannóg, allowing me to connect with readers drawn to haiku, tanka, and poetry's power to reveal life’s delicate balance. My upcoming collection, Rainbow Street, is a tribute to the vibrancy and diversity of life’s journey—a theme I explore both in my writing and in my teaching.

​

Expanding Horizons with Haibun and Short Stories

In addition to haiku, I am deeply engaged in the craft of haibun, a blend of prose and haiku that weaves together narrative and poetic expression. My haibun, Reveal, was honored with inclusion in the Red Moon Press anthology—an acknowledgment I hold dear as the selection reflects the editorial community’s recognition of authentic voices.

Short fiction, too, has been a powerful medium for me. Stories like “Bus to Bordeaux” and “Meeting Luis” have allowed me to explore diverse human experiences, highlighting life’s unexpected connections. These stories have appeared in notable anthologies, serving as windows into both everyday beauty and complexity.

​

Novels: Exploring New Realms of Imagination

In my novel, An Affinity for Metal, I delve into the world of Darragh Hayes, a young man blessed and burdened with a unique power over metal. This story is about more than supernatural abilities; it’s a narrative that explores self-acceptance, human relationships, and the courage to embrace one’s true self. The novel is currently in the editing phase, and I’m thrilled to share this journey with readers soon.

My writing also touches on healing, a theme I develop in my forthcoming non-fiction project, The Whole You: How to Heal through Creative Writing. This work aims to guide readers through the transformative power of creativity, merging my experiences as a healer and writer to help others navigate life’s challenges through self-expression.

​

Awards and Recognitions

Recognition has come in many forms throughout my career, each award and commendation a reminder of the support from the writing community. In 2023, Glencar was commended in the Francis Ledwidge Poetry Award, while Village Clean Up, one of my haibun, received an honorable mention in the Genjuan International Haibun Contest. In addition, my haiku “boiling kettle” earned runner-up status for the British Haiku Society Museum of Literature Award, exemplifying my commitment to excellence across diverse writing forms.

​

Mentorship, Panels, and Educational Outreach

Teaching and mentorship form the core of my work. As an Irish Writers Centre professional member, a mentor with the National Mentoring Programme, and a participant in the Richmond Barracks Artist Panel, I dedicate myself to fostering the talents of emerging writers. My involvement with the TAP+ scheme through the Department of Education has also allowed me to bring creative writing into schools, inspiring young minds to explore their own voices.

In the workshops I offer—from haiku courses at the Richmond Barracks Museum to poetry workshops at festivals like the Red Line Festival—I aim to make the process of creative discovery accessible and transformative. My workshops on poetry and social justice, tarot and poetry, and eco-poetry reveal my passion for using creativity to drive personal and social change.

​

Inviting You to the Creative Journey

Whether you’re a seasoned poet, a curious reader, or a new writer, my books and workshops are crafted to inspire. Writing is both an art and a journey—a way to see the world with fresh eyes and a medium to heal and grow. Through my books, workshops, and mentorship, I invite you to join me in exploring the power of language and the beauty of human experience.

Explore the world of poetry, haiku, and creative healing with me. Your story awaits, and I’m here to help you discover its voice.