The Bayou Soul Youth Literary Conference (BSYLC) is an annual event that takes place in Baton Rouge but originated in New Orleans during the Essence Festival weekend. During this time, many people will converge upon the  Crescent city to experience and celebrate American music, art and culture with a focus on music. From Be­yonce to Janet Jackson, these festivities have featured some of the biggest recording artists of our time. 

In contrast, the Bayou Soul Youth Literary Conference caters to Louisiana High School Students. Our goal is to introduce young people in the company of authors, singers, readers, emerging writers, members of the publishing industry and educators. This exciting event precedes Essence Festival in New Orleans and is now housed in Baton Rouge, the capital of Louisiana. Uniike any other event, BSWLC gives young people the opportunity to access information for college. In addition, students have a chance to compete for scholarship monies in our annual Dr. Maya Angelou Oratorical Contest. Students are given a writing prompt on issues impacting their communities like school violence, racism, and police brutality. The top students then have a chance to recite their speech in front of their peers and a panel of celebrity guests. 

BSYLC affords young people more opportunities and experiences than you’d expect to find at a mere book conference. Besides featured panels with celebrity authors, and master classes taught by experts in both fiction and screenwriting, there’s an award’s lunch and dinner where we honor both, book clubs, established and emerging writers as well as recognize the hard work of edi­tors and literary agents who are behind the scenes everyday fighting to make sure your favorite author’s books end up in your personal library. In addition, BSYLC will give you a chance to unwind at our annual red beans and rice reception with celebrity jazz and blues’ artists. Moreover, you’ll get a chance to have an intimate chat during the “lunching with the author” luncheon where your favorite author is actually sitting next to you. 

There’s no better time to stop in Baton Rouge en route to the Essence Festival in New Orleans. Treat yourself to some literary fun, good food, and great people in a creative atmosphere at the Bayou Soul Youth Literary Conference! 

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