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Nestled in the heart of the Western Rhodope Mountains, I find myself at the “Storyteller of the Future” retreat in Dolen, Bulgaria.

It’s a place where the air is crisp, the views are breathtaking, and the possibilities for personal growth are boundless. This retreat is not just about storytelling—it’s a deep dive into techniques from diverse perspectives, including the innovative realms of gaming and game design, both digital and in person.

As I immerse myself in these rich discussions and learning experiences, I can’t help but reflect on my journey. From the bustling stages of Chicago to the tranquil paths of the Camino de Santiago, and now to this serene mountain setting, my life has been a tapestry of stories. Each thread is woven through my acting career, my job as a flight attendant, and my passion project, the story pilgrim.

Surrounded by the majestic Rhodope Mountains, the retreat is a sanctuary for introspection and growth. It’s a place where time slows down, allowing us to truly absorb the lessons being shared. The intersection of gaming and storytelling has been particularly intriguing, revealing new ways to engage audiences and create immersive experiences. These techniques are more than just tools; they are pathways to deeper connections and more impactful narratives.

Yet, amid this beauty and inspiration, a familiar doubt lingers. I’ve been here before—at drama school, during my master’s program, in countless workshops—feeling the rush of new knowledge, only to worry later if I can truly integrate it into my daily life. It’s a pattern that many of us creatives face: the fear that our learnings will fade, becoming mere memories rather than transformative tools.

The haunting question remains: Will I be able to implement these insights once I leave this idyllic setting? This anxiety is not new. It surfaced after graduating from The Bristol Old Vic Theatre School, and again after earning my Master’s in Text and Performance. Despite these milestones, there’s always a nagging concern about whether I’m fully utilizing the knowledge and skills I’ve acquired.

But this time, I want it to be different. Here in Dolen, surrounded by nature’s grandeur and the shared wisdom of fellow storytellers, I’m setting an intention to carry these lessons forward. Whether it’s through the dynamic storytelling techniques of gaming or the profound personal reflections inspired by these mountains, I am committed to embedding these insights into my craft and life.

The Western Rhodope Mountains have not just provided a stunning backdrop for this retreat; they’ve become a symbol of my commitment to growth. As I look out over the rugged peaks and valleys, I’m reminded that the path of a storyteller is not always straightforward. But with each step, each story, and each moment of reflection, I’m carving out a journey that is uniquely my own.

So here’s to carrying the spirit of Dolen with me, infusing my art, my podcast, and my life with the rich, multifaceted stories that make us who we are. The lessons learned here are not just fleeting moments of inspiration but are seeds planted deep within, ready to grow and flourish in every aspect of my creative journey.

The Setback

Recently, I received some disheartening news: my application for the Developing Your Creative Practice (DYCP) grant from Arts Council England (ACE) was not successful. The letter mentioned that “other applications were preferred.” It’s a simple, yet heavy phrase, especially when you’ve invested so much hope and effort into a project that is so close to your heart.

My proposal was centred around expanding the story pilgrim, a project born from my passion for storytelling and connecting people through genuine human experiences. With the grant, I planned to deepen my work as a storyteller and podcaster, bringing more stories from the road to life, capturing the essence of the journeys and the people I encounter.

Reflecting on Rejection

Rejection is no stranger to those of us in the creative industry. As an actor, podcaster, and storyteller, I’ve faced it countless times. Each rejection stings, and this one was no different. It made me pause and question my path. The DYCP grant would have provided a significant boost, allowing me to further develop my skills and reach a broader audience.

However, in every “no” lies an opportunity. An opportunity to reflect, to reassess, and to find new ways to move forward. It’s a moment to reaffirm why we do what we do and to find strength in our passion.

Moving Forward with Determination

Despite the setback with the DYCP grant, my commitment to the story pilgrim remains unwavering. This project is about more than just funding; it’s about the passion for sharing stories and connecting with people. It’s about the journey, not just the destination.

Rejection, though painful, is not the end. It’s a part of the process that shapes and strengthens us. It challenges us to push our boundaries, to find new ways to bring our visions to life, and to persist in the face of adversity.

I’m determined to continue walking, recording, and sharing the stories that the story pilgrim is all about. Each step I take, each story I capture, is a testament to resilience and the belief that every voice matters.

A Message to Fellow Creatives

To my fellow creatives facing similar challenges: I know how tough it can be. The constant cycle of applying, hoping, and sometimes facing rejection can be exhausting. But remember, every “no” is not a reflection of your worth or the value of your work. It’s simply a part of the journey.

Let each rejection be a stepping stone, not a stumbling block. Use it to refine your purpose, to fuel your passion, and to drive you forward with even greater determination. Our stories are worth telling, and our journeys, no matter how winding, are worth pursuing.

The Road Ahead

As the story pilgrim continues its journey, I am more committed than ever to connecting people through storytelling. I will keep walking, exploring, and sharing the rich tapestry of human experiences that we all contribute to.

The road ahead may be uncertain, but it is also full of possibility. I’m excited for the adventures to come and for the stories waiting to be discovered.

Thank you for being a part of this journey. Here’s to resilience, to the power of storytelling, and to the belief that every step forward brings us closer to something extraordinary.