Hello there,
I am Sara Kärpänen (she/her), a London based author, journalist, poet and the founder of Women of the Wick - a feminist media democratising media spaces and amplifying creative voices. My mission is to build more equal communities through personal storytelling and enable spaces where our lived experiences can be seen, heard and shared.
With over a decade of experience in cultural journalism and communications, I moderate and speak in panel discussions and facilitate educational workshops with institutions such as Soho House, Hatch Enterprise, Battersea Arts Centre, and The Trampery. My layered approach to writing and urbanism encompasses research, journalism, public speaking and poetic methods with a primary focus on gender equality.
Since immersing myself into grassroots community initiatives in East London, Mexico and LA, I completed a Masters' Degree at the UCL Bartlett School of Architecture to further expand my knowledge in architectural and gender studies. I've had the privilege to work and partner with international publications, non-profits, and cultural organisations in the UK, US and Europe, including The Architectural Review, Elephant Journal, The Barbican, BMW Foundation, Stour Trust, Public Works, and more.
My first non-fiction book 'City of Women - Tools For Occupying Public Space' was published in Finnish in 2022, and I am currently writing my second book due to be out in 2024 by Into Publishing.
If you are interested in booking me as a writer or speaker, facilitating a workshop, or just say hi, please get in touch here.
I would love to connect!
Writing As Seen In
Testimonials
"Sara provided two exceptional and innovative storytelling workshops as part of our Youth and Adult Business programmes. We could not have ever imagined a more invaluable experience for our participants. We loved working with Sara and Women of the Wick."
Nikita, Founder of Local Champtions
”Sara has a really gift of making feel welcome and heard which is crucial for new and aspiring writers.”
Tasnim, Researcher and Writer
”Any creative would benefit from the storytelling workshop. The space Sara created was intimate and safe and my self-belief as a writer grew.”
Piarvé, Founder of Colechi fashion collective
