faith-based topics for teens

Tessa is passionate about speaking to teenagers, encouraging them to make the most of their youth by pursuing God, embracing their uniqueness, and tapping into their potential. She uses stories and examples from her own experiences as a teenager to relate with youth today and motivate them to view their teen years from a big-picture perspective. Teenagers come away from her sessions with newfound hope and an action plan that will compel them to strive forward in their walk with God, understand their identity, pursue their callings, and establish a firm foundation for their futures—all for the sake of expanding God’s Kingdom.

what others are saying...

I had the opportunity to have Tessa come and speak at my youth group and I am so glad I did. Tessa is a gifted young woman who was able to connect with my students in a unique way. She was fun and personable and I got nothing but great feedback from our group. I would highly recommend Tessa to come speak at your next event.
— Matthew Cogswell, youth pastor, Hope Fellowship
It is very rare to find someone as inspiring as Tessa is in terms of writing and faith. I absolutely loved having her speak at USCA’s Baptist Collegiate Ministry. Her testimony on how God can use your dreams and gifts for His glory is something that I believe that everyone, especially students, need to hear. Her journey with God and writing has spurred me on to not only chase after my dreams, but to tackle them to the ground.
— DAVID B. CORDER, college student at USC Aiken

writing workshops

For the past 5+ years, Tessa has taught writing workshops for all age groups at writing conferences and writing groups around the country. She is available to teach on a variety of topics, including:

  • the craft of writing (show vs. tell, deep POV, characterization, etc.)

  • the publishing industry (how to submit to an agent, the state of YA fiction, etc.)

  • how to worship God through our writing

  • and more

 

what others are saying...

I was impressed with Tessa’s show don’t tell workshop at the Ohio Christian Writer’s Conference. Her presentation was clear and concise. She made it easier to understand the topic. Her pleasant personality made me feel comfortable  asking individual questions after the formal presentation was over.
— conference attendee
I gained a multitude of valuable information to take with me in pursuing my passion. I’d highly recommend this for any student interested in creative writing!
— Taylor, 17
I left feeling encouraged and capable.
— conference attendee
As a workshop leader, Tessa teaches then empowers. By delicately pointing out common writing flaws and practicing a plan for correction, she gives writers the permission to be better. I left Tessa’s workshop knowing that tomorrow my writing would be stronger than yesterday.
— conference attendee
She had plenty of information and certainly does her research well. I’m a YA Fantasy writer and even though she doesn’t do Fantasy I still have gathered valuable information from her that I will put to use in the future of my writing.
— conference attendee
Her accomplishments at such a young age are very impressive, and her willingness to share knowledge with others is a true gift. Looking forward to attending more of her workshops!
— conference attendee