Generative writing lessons in Brussels (English & Dutch), by a published novelist

From 46 € /h

The purpose of this class is to get you (back to) writing. It doesn't matter if you're stuck or just getting started.

With simple generative writing prompts and exercises, I'll help you overcome your fear of the blank page and start writing. My goal is to help you "rest on the page" and get into a state of flow through techniques like freewriting, list-making, and word associations.

You can also receive individual feedback and support on your current or upcoming writing projects, along with helpful exercises that you can do at home, which we can then discuss.

The class can be taught in either English or Dutch.

Ilona (1992) lives and works in Brussels as a writer, poet, and photographer. Her work examines the fragile architecture of being human, paying particular attention to what hides at the edges of existence, in the shadow of shame. With a background in English literature, linguistics, and political science, she has worked as a writer and copywriter for a decade. Newspaper De Morgen praised her debut novel Donkerkiemer (Pelckmans Publishers, 2023) as ‘particularly cleverly composed' and 'psychologically and philosophically profound’. Themes such as ritual, memory, and loss, as well as a gentle rebellion against prevailing norms and systems, are central to her work. She is currently working on a second novel.

Extra information

Have a laptop, notebook or anything you like to use for writing
Occasionally you'll need other tools, like a camera (phone) - you'll always be informed ahead of time

Location

Use Ctrl + wheel to zoom!

At student's location :

Around Brussels, Belgium

Online from Belgium

About Me

Ilona (1992) lives and works in Brussels as a writer, poet, and photographer. Her work examines the fragile architecture of being human, paying particular attention to what hides at the edges of existence, in the shadow of shame. With a background in English literature, linguistics, and political science, she has worked as a writer and copywriter for a decade. Newspaper De Morgen praised her debut novel Donkerkiemer (Pelckmans Publishers, 2023) as ‘particularly cleverly composed' and 'psychologically and philosophically profound’. Themes such as ritual, memory, and loss, as well as a gentle rebellion against prevailing norms and systems, are central to her work. She is currently working on a second novel.

Education

Bachelor of Arts in English & Spanish Language, Literature & Linguistics (Ghent University)
Master of Science in International Politics (Ghent University)
Generative writing courses & workshops at Warman School

Experience / Qualifications

Non-fiction book "Fille Folle: alles wat we als meisjes vandaag moeten weten (of toch bijna)" (Publ. Van Halewyck, 2017)
Novel: "Donkerkiemer" (Publ. Pelckmans, 2023)
Other publications: Bog Bodies Mnemotope Magazine,

Age

Teenagers (13-17 years old)

Adults (18-64 years old)

Seniors (65+ years old)

Student level

Beginner

Intermediate

Duration

60 minutes

The class is taught in

English

Dutch

Skills

Writing

Creative writing

Availability of a typical week

(GMT -05:00)

New York

Online via webcam

At student's home

Mon

Tue

Wed

Thu

Fri

Sat

Sun

00-04

04-08

08-12

12-16

16-20

20-24

Sheyar

3.2

(5)

I am a native English speaker from USA and I specialize in teaching, exam preparation, instruction and text correction for several students and professionals residing in Belgium.

With experience in 4 different cities across Europe and Asia, I take a multidimensional approach to my classes, tutoring and assisting with both Academic and Business English, to ensure that all my students are at ease during the lessons which results in faster improvements and undeniable results. The lessons cover various topics, mainly focusing on comprehension, reading techniques, writing skills, grammar, vocabulary, and day to day conversation along with accent training and basic language skills.

My former clients include students from middle school, high school and college as well as professionals from various occupations. I have worked with them to improve their spoken and written English. I also tutor clients who want to improve their English at an academic level for exams such as the SAT, IELTs, EPSO and TOEFL. These include high school students, college students as well as professionals, ranging from engineers to young interns at the EU parliament. I assist with exam based preparation to achieve the desired results and my clients have not been disappointed so far.

I have further proofread, edited, written and improved a large amount of essays, college applications, theses, personal statements, and assignments for various clients at an academic level.

I like to make my lessons interesting, but at the same time, I make sure that they are as productive as possible. With a thorough understanding and experience of English grammar and literature, I further take care of ghost writing, proof reading and editing of academic and professional papers. Weekly and monthly rates are possible in this case.

I have no issues meeting anywhere in Brussels, or at a location or town close to the city.

Anne

3.2

(5)

Coming from Germany, I specialize in tutoring German for school, adults and preparing for different exams.
My goal is to keep students challenged, but not overwhelmed. I assign homework after every lesson.
Every lesson will be tailored to the specific needs of each student.
I have a degree in languages and have 14 years experience in teaching languages (individual classes and as a substitute teacher at school).
I like to see the progress that students make.

Cami

3.2

(5)

Overcome your fears and unlock creative inspiration to finally get to the end of your writing project.

Let yourself be guided and finally realize your dream of writing.

➤ Overcome your fears.
➤ Discover the secret to writing 100% fun and 0% blank pages.
➤ Awaken this writer's flame that has been dormant in you for a long time.
➤ Build unwavering legitimacy and overcome the fear of failure, lack of time and procrastination that keep you from moving forward.

In short, put an end to the fear of writing! Isn't it difficult to be consumed by the desire to write your project and not succeed in doing it? Break forever the insurmountable wall that prevents you from writing today.

It is a matter of combining improvements in form with improvements in substance. For this, the sessions can for example take place according to your needs as follows:
a) Comments / proposals on the text that you will offer me b) Writing exercises based on a statement.
c) A series of precise and pragmatic recommendations and their application through style exercises.

Whether it is a novel, an essay, song lyrics, various texts, a biography or simply a report for professional or school purposes, it is about offering you elements personalized pedagogy:

- Study your text
- Build text, song lyrics etc
- Calmly polish the style
- Research and develop your lexical fields
- Differentiate between writing for oneself and writing for others

All this by combining theory and practice: Writing work from exercises then as part of a personal project.

During the sessions, you are guided in your writing project. The trainer accompanies you and teaches you the preparation method, gives you writing tools and helps you work on your style and your imagination.

The objective is multiple, including a reflection on one's own literary path, an introduction to the basic tools of style work and exercises on description.

Learning objectives:
- Identify your writing path.
- Mobilize your imagination.
- Learn and master the practical writing tools.
- Broaden its reflection on creation and professional and personal writing.
- Create and develop one or more projects.

Trained in a European Grande Ecole & Ivy League University in the United States, specialized and has been working in Europe and North America for more than 16 years in this field, in reputable international institutions , also intervening in forums and conferences.

- Locations: Geneva - Lausanne - Friborg - Neuchâtel - Montreux - Basel - Sion - Sierre - Morges - Bienne. But currently and until further notice, only by videoconference in accordance with national recommendations on Covid.

These sessions, for which you have asked me, also seem to be perfectly unanimous since they arouse a certain enthusiasm (and a certain enthusiasm). Indeed, they have the advantage of face-to-face sessions (ex: quality of the interaction), without its disadvantages (ex: loss of travel time) with additional advantages (ex: the entire session transcribed in writing on the chat). That is why, at your request, I continue to offer this option.

À la carte: evaluated and adapted to each personality.

Rachel

3.2

(5)

In my classes you learn Spanish at your own pace and with flexible hours. At school you learn Spanish and when you speak to the people themselves it is completely different.
Spanish is my mother language so I can teach you correct Spanish and also prepare you to communicate with Spanish speaking people.

My goal is that you feel comfortable and speak the language confidently.

I also offer classes for children in Spanish. Sometimes it can be difficult to keep up with a second language and I definitely want to help them with that.

I also speak perfect Dutch and English so if you wish to speak 1 of these languages I can teach you that to.

Morgane

3.2

(5)

Do you have an idea for a film, series, or show project but don't know where to start? Have you already written a script or a brief, but need a structured response to take it further?

I offer support in screenwriting, adapted to your level and your project: short film, feature film, series, web creation, play, or hybrid project.

Each session is tailor-made. It may include: proofreading with detailed feedback, dramaturgical advice, exercises to unblock a situation, reformulation, or more comprehensive project structuring work.

The goal: to bring out your voice while giving you concrete and professional tools to move forward.

Courses available online or in person in Brussels.

Nina

3.2

(5)

English Language Arts tutoring:
(K-12, University, Adult Learners)

Using project-based teaching, online learning tailored to a child or adult’s individual needs produces results. Students become passionate, confident readers and writers with focused support in a, stress-free environment. (All Ages & Abilities)

(ESL writing improvement for students at all levels)

Clients include students from 5-85, including college professors, professionals, high-school and college students, ADHD, dyslexic adults, and post-stroke language recovery.

I offer superb conversation and accent coaching in French, Italian, and English through practical immersion dialogue. Begin speaking during the first lesson for pleasure, an upcoming vacation, or business. Tailored to every student's needs.

Homework help, accent precision, verbal skills, reading in French and Italian language using current events, children's books, and literary masterpieces from Hemingway to Camus.

Experience:

Author of Someday You Will Understand: My Father's Private WWII (Simon & Shuster 2014)
Fluent: French, Italian, Spanish
United Nations: Public Speaking

** Strict 24- Hour Cancellation Policy**
Via Zoom, FaceTime, in person etc ...

Florentin

3.2

(5)

Writing is first of all knowing how to communicate effectively Communicating effectively is first of all knowing what is important in spelling and grammar in French Finally, it is above all knowing how to promote the information that we want to transmit .

David

3.2

(5)

This course is designed for European students and professionals who are non-native English speakers seeking to enhance their academic writing skills in English. Participants will learn how to structure essays, research papers, and reports with clarity and precision, focusing on the conventions of academic writing. The course will cover essential topics such as thesis development, argumentation, citation styles, and critical analysis, while also addressing common language challenges faced by non-native speakers. Through practical exercises and personalized feedback, students will gain the confidence and proficiency needed to produce high-quality academic work in English.

Toon

3.2

(5)

Are you struggling with the dt-rule? Do you have no idea about sentence analysis? Are you having trouble writing a good sentence for your essay? Or would you like to learn to speak Dutch more fluently with friends, in the store or at work?

Together we will look at what your needs and requirements are. Then I will work out a program, tailored to you. That way we can get started efficiently, to achieve your goals!

Specific questions? Feel free to send me a message.

Cédric

3.2

(5)

Hello !

I have been teaching French as a private tutor for a good ten years to students from all backgrounds, of all ages and with extremely varied objectives.

I am a passionate, motivated, cheerful, and attentive private tutor. Languages are a passion of mine, and teaching them is a vocation.

I suggest that we progress together, quickly and efficiently in a good mood, using varied, interesting and fun materials!

Learning a language opens the door to a significant cultural journey and a new world to explore, but it's also a real challenge. Giving you the means to learn, progress, achieve goals, and feel your growing motivation is a source of immense satisfaction for me in my profession as a teacher, trainer, and coach.

Smiles, good humor and kindness are on the agenda!

See you soon ;)

______________________________

➤ This module is intended for students in primary education, secondary education, higher education and university education.

➤ It consists - depending on the specifics of the cases - of assistance with writing, scrupulous proofreading of both the content and the form of written work. (Ex: Internship reports, end-of-study dissertations, essays, etc.).

➤ Grammar, syntax, spelling, argumentation, choice of expressions, choice of structure are part of this module.

________________________________________________________

Hello !

I've been teaching FLE French as a private tutor for over ten years to students from all backgrounds, of all ages and with extremely varied objectives.

I'm a passionate private teacher, motivated, smiling and good listener. Languages are my passion and teaching them my vocation.

My aim is to help you make rapid and effective progress together, in a friendly atmosphere, using a variety of interesting and playful materials!

Learning a language opens the door to a huge cultural journey and a new world to explore, but it's also a real challenge. Giving you the means to learn, make progress, achieve goals together and feel your growing motivation is an immense source of satisfaction for me in my job as a teacher, trainer and coach.

Smile, good mood and benevolence are all part of the program!

See you soon;)

______________________________

➤ This module is designed for students in primary, secondary, higher and university education.

➤ It consists - depending on the specific case - of assistance with the drafting and scrupulous proofreading of both the form and the content of written work (eg work placement reports, final year dissertations, essays, etc.).

➤ Grammar, syntax, spelling, argumentation, choice of expressions, choice of structure are all part of this module.

Sabriyah

3.2

(5)

Are you looking to improve your English skills, boost your confidence, and achieve better results in school? My classes are tailored to meet your needs, whether it’s mastering essay writing, analyzing literature, preparing for exams, or simply strengthening grammar and vocabulary.

I specialize in supporting high school and IB students, offering guidance with Paper 1, Paper 2, the Individual Oral (IO), and the HL Essay. Lessons are interactive, personalized, and designed to make complex ideas easy to understand.

Whether you’re aiming to improve grades, prepare for exams, or build stronger communication skills, I’ll help you reach your goals step by step in a supportive and encouraging environment.

Maximilien

3.2

(5)

An introduction to comics, exploring its various processes and reflecting on the medium in a creative way. Students will create both classic and more experimental comics, depending on their interests and skill levels.
Currently available in the mornings during the week.

Qamille

3.2

(5)

SUMMARY DESCRIPTION (IN BRIEF):
➤Unleash your writing skills and finally realize your writing project!
Novels, short stories, life stories, theses, songs or simple texts: these workshops help you overcome your blocks and transform your ideas into vivid and inspiring stories.

➤ Together, we will work to:
-Overcome your fear of the blank page and awaken your creativity
-Develop style, vocabulary, coherence and authenticity
-Creating characters, settings, and captivating storylines
-Explore your imagination, your emotions, and your flaws to turn them into a strength
-Alternating theory and practice with concrete exercises and personalized feedback

➤ Proofreading, correction, optimization of your texts possible.
➤Objective: to write with pleasure, progress faster and bring your project to completion.

➤Let yourself be guided: your dream of writing can become a reality.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION:
➤Exploring and sharing the pleasure of words, building the stories that inhabit you, developing your expression, deepening your creativity, exploring contemporary writing, proposing a novel, short stories, a life story, an (auto)biography, a fiction, an essay, song lyrics, various texts or simply a report, a thesis, a report for professional or academic purposes... these are among the objectives of these workshops to deepen or initiate writing and realize one's aspirations by prioritizing the pleasure of writing based on elements of personalized pedagogy.

➤Overcome your fears and unlock creative inspiration to finally complete your project.

Let yourself be guided and finally realize your dream of writing.
➤ Overcome your fears
➤ Discover the secret to producing high-quality writing that's 100% enjoyable and 0% writer's block.
➤ Awaken this writer's flame that has been dormant in you for a long time
➤ Build unwavering legitimacy and overcome the fear of failure, lack of time and procrastination that keep you from moving forward.

In short, overcome your fear of writing. Isn't it frustrating to be consumed by the desire to write your project and yet unable to do so? Break down that insurmountable wall that's holding you back.

This involves combining improvements in form with refinements in content. For example, concrete techniques for starting your text and overcoming writer's block, feedback/suggestions on your texts, writing and style exercises based on a prompt, a series of precise/pragmatic recommendations and their implementation.

That is why, if your manuscript is stuck and you don't know how to start or continue it, if you have all the ideas but don't know what form they should take, if you want to save time in the creative process: let's build the architecture of your story together.

Learning objectives include:
• Discover writing, build confidence, let your own literary voice/path emerge, and unleash your imagination
• Studying and constructing a text, song lyrics...
• Calmly refine the style and create consistency between form and content
• Research and develop your vocabulary
• Acquire techniques and know-how to convey your message both clearly and simply
• Differentiate between writing for oneself and writing for others
• Explore your creativity and develop your expression
• To construct a complete story by creating characters, settings, lively scenes...
• Acquire and master practical writing tools, always with a focus on simplicity/simplification and efficiency (both in content and form)
• Discover contemporary writing and diversify your practice
• Acquire narrative techniques to engage in long stories

So, start, resume or finish a piece of writing you have dreamed of for a long time if you want to write but don't know where to start; if you have a story but don't know how to tell it; if you love to write but have lost your inspiration; if you have a manuscript buried in a drawer and you are afraid of failing.

To achieve this, the first step is to unleash your writing and let go: strengthen your imagination, explore your inspiration, and cultivate your originality. Next, turn your weaknesses into a driving force for writing by exploring your wounds to better utilize them and adopt an effective writing method. Finally, master writing techniques and bring characters to life while crafting captivating stories, controlling pacing, and developing suspenseful plots.

All this by combining theory and practical/concrete applications: writing assignments based on exercises and then within the framework of your project.

During the sessions, you will be guided in your writing project. The trainer will support you in your written communication and offer tools, while helping you to work on and/or optimize your style and imagination.

Proofreading, revising, correcting and formatting articles, theses, etc.: these options are also possible.

Furthermore, these sessions allow one to improve one's written communication and to study the different methods to achieve this (email, letter, report, presentation...), both in terms of content and form.

➤ THE TRAINER - TEACHER CONSULTANT
A graduate of a prestigious French Grande École and an Ivy League university in the United States, he combines academic rigor with modern teaching methods. With over 18 years of experience in Europe and North America, he has taught at prestigious international institutions (both public and private), and regularly speaks in Switzerland, France, Belgium, Luxembourg, and Canada, as well as at various forums and conferences.

A recognized specialist, he offers personalized and accessible support based on active listening, a proven methodology, and tailored teaching methods. Whether through one-on-one sessions, workshops, or group training, his approach combines customization, efficiency, and professionalism for rapid, visible results.

➤ LOCATIONS, TIMES

✓ Areas of intervention:
-Switzerland (Geneva, Lausanne, Fribourg, Zurich, Neuchâtel, Lugano, Basel, Bern, Lucerne)
-Belgium (Brussels, Antwerp, Charleroi, Liège)
-Luxembourg
-On request: France (Paris, Lyon) and Canada (Montreal)

✓ Currently: sessions are primarily conducted via videoconference – a format favored by almost all participants, as it combines the same high-quality interaction with great organizational flexibility. All content, notes, and recommendations are provided directly through the dedicated chat. Advantages: time savings (no travel), flexible scheduling, comfort, and eco-responsibility.

✓ Languages: French / English.

✓ Results: noticeable progress from 2 sessions (2025 study).

✓ Special offers: gift vouchers available all year round – an original and useful way to please your loved ones.

✓ Schedules to be defined together, adjusting as best as possible to your constraints.

✓ 100% tailor-made program, adapted to each need.

✓ Why choose this training?
-Because you benefit from international expertise at the service of your objectives.
-Because each session is personalized and you will leave with concrete tools.
-Because the approach is not theoretical: it is lively, interactive and results-oriented.
-Because you benefit from a motivating, supportive and stimulating environment, which promotes confidence and rapid progress.
-Because in just a few sessions, you will already notice a tangible difference.

Matteo

3.2

(5)

Hi there!

My name is Matteo and I was born and raised in Milan. I'd be happy to help you learn Italian and/or become fluent in it having friendly conversations about any topic you'd like and others suggested by me. In case you're you are preparing for a trip, we could also imagine some real-life situations while getting around in the city!

Together, we'll work on your speaking, writing and reading skills, I'll also help you with grammar and syntax rules, and I'd love to share my love for literature discussing about books you'd like to read in original language!

Sarah

3.2

(5)

Gain confidence in speaking and writing English through personalized lessons focused on your goals. I offer conversation practice and academic writing support, adapted to your level and needs.

Conversation lessons focus on real exchange:
- discussing topics that interest you
- improving fluency and natural phrasing
- refining pronunciation and vocabulary
- targeted exercises based on your objectives

Academic writing support is based on your own texts (essays, papers, theses, dissertations):
- improving clarity, structure, and coherence
- refining style and tone
- correcting grammar and idiomatic usage
- developing a more professional, natural written voice

Lessons can take place online, in a public space, or at the student’s home in Ghent, Brussels, and nearby areas.

As a native English speaker and a published author with over five years of teaching experience, I offer structured, supportive lessons tailored to each student’s goals. I hold a Master’s degree from the University of California, Berkeley and bring particular attention to pronunciation, written voice and spoken fluency.

Feel free to contact me with any questions or to schedule a first lesson.