Give it a Go 2025 Free Online Talks with Award-Winning Screenwriting and Sports Stars

Libraries NI’s Give it a Go! series continues with two exciting online events, featuring James Hume, a professional rugby player, and award-winning screenwriter Karis Kelly.

These free online talks will offer a unique opportunity to hear personal insights, learn new skills, and take part in interactive discussions.

Give it a Go: Get into Sport, Health and Fitness

On Wednesday 12 February at 11:00am, Ulster Rugby player James Hume will share his personal journey in professional sport.

James Hume’s rugby career achievements include:

• named in the 2021-22 URC Dream team
• winning Ulster Player of the Year
• winning the Rugby Writer's Player of the Year
• called up to the senior Ireland rugby squad.

James Hume will talk about the mindset needed for success, and how sport has shaped his personal and professional development and equipped him to be the best that he can be. The talk will provide opportunities to hear first-hand experiences from a top athlete, explore the benefits of sport and fitness and to inspire you to give it a try and find something to excel at or simply feel good about and enjoy.

Register here: Meeting Registration - Zoom

Give it a Go: Get into Screenwriting

On Friday 14 February at 11:00am, award-winning local screenwriter and playwright Karis Kelly will lead a session on the fundamentals of screenwriting, including character development, dialogue, and storytelling techniques. The event will also include practical exercises and an opportunity to ask questions about the industry.

Karis Kelly, who has now joined The Lyric Theatre, Belfast as their writer in residence, has a wealth of experience which will be evident throughout the talk:

• Women’s Prize for Playwriting in 2022
• upcoming projects with World Productions (Line of Duty) and Fine Point Films
• recipient of the Peggy Ramsay Foundation and Film4 Bursary
• For the screen: HOPE STREET - various episodes, (Longstory TV, BBC Northern Ireland, Britbox), THE BREAK (BBC Three and BBC Northern Ireland), PERIOD PIECE (Underwire Film Festival, Vancouver Women In Film Festival, Cineffable - Paris Lesbian & Feminist Film Festival).

Register here: Meeting Registration - Zoom

Both events are free and open to all, simply register by clicking the links above.

A full programme of free Give it a Go events is taking place in libraries throughout February, offering opportunities to try something new, develop a skill, or enjoy a fresh experience in your local library. For more details on Give it a Go 2025, visit our events section or follow @LibrariesNI on social media.