In celebration of International Women’s Day, South Bank Colleges hosted an inspiring Zine workshop, with Kes Sims encouraging students to explore the art of journaling as a way to navigate life’s challenges, build confidence, and find inner peace.
Journaling has long been recognised as a powerful tool for self-expression, mental well-being, and personal growth. Whether in the form of a traditional handwritten diary, a visual zine filled with artwork and collages, or a digital journal, putting thoughts and emotions onto paper (or screen) can be transformative. It’s a space where women can reclaim their voices, process experiences, and express themselves freely.
Why Journaling Matters
For many women, life is a balancing act filled with responsibilities, pressures, and expectations. Journaling offers a private and personal way to reflect, destress, and take control of emotions. Studies have shown that writing down thoughts can help improve mental clarity, reduce anxiety, and even enhance problem-solving skills.
Beyond mental well-being, journaling is also a tool for self-discovery and empowerment. It allows women to track their progress, set goals, and affirm their strengths. Whether through gratitude journaling, bullet journaling, or storytelling, the act of writing can provide a sense of agency and confidence.
Zines: A Creative Outlet for Self-Expression
Zines—DIY, self-published booklets—are a unique and creative form of journaling that have historically been used by activists, artists, and writers to share ideas and amplify voices. In the workshop, students learned how to make their own zines, exploring themes of identity, resilience, and empowerment.
From hand-drawn illustrations to poetic reflections, participants experimented with different ways to express their thoughts and emotions. Some chose to focus on personal struggles and triumphs, while others highlighted inspiring stories of women throughout history. The tactile, hands-on nature of zine-making encouraged freedom of expression beyond just words, incorporating imagery, textures, and design.
Bringing Journaling into Everyday Life
The beauty of journaling is that there are no rules—it can be as structured or as spontaneous as needed. Whether it’s writing a few lines in the morning, sketching in a notebook, or starting a blog, the act of recording thoughts can be a valuable practice for anyone seeking clarity and self-growth.
For those who prefer a digital approach, online journaling platforms, private blogs, and even voice note diaries can offer a modern way to reflect and document personal experiences. Journaling is deeply personal, and finding the right method is key to making it a sustainable habit.
A Celebration of Women’s Voices
International Women’s Day is a reminder of the strength, resilience, and creativity of women worldwide. The Zine workshop was not just about journaling—it was about empowering women to use their voices, tell their stories, and express themselves in ways that bring them confidence and peace.
South Bank Colleges is proud to provide spaces where students can explore their creativity, develop their self-expression, and gain tools that support their well-being. Journaling, in all its forms, remains a timeless and accessible way to navigate life’s journey—one page at a time.
Want to try journaling for yourself? Grab a notebook, start a blog, or create your own zine. Your story matters. ✍️✨
A massive thanks to Kes Sims from Worthy Women's World for leading the workshop on the day and inspiring SBC's students.
