Quirky, wordy and lightning-fast at the keyboard -- Youssef Sleiman tells stories for a living, plying his natural and professional curiosity to make the important interesting. Years as a newspaper reporter in the Pacific Northwest and decades in corporate America have shaped his storytelling career. Today, he sets editorial direction and writes for a national brand, consults on AI-based SEO strategies, and coaches gifted curious individuals as part of  the Bright Insight Support Network, helping people new to or rediscovering their giftedness.

Identity Odyssey: Crafting Characters, Crafting Self

Let’s learn by play! During this interesting and interactive workshop, we will mix creative writing, roleplaying games, developmental psychology, and a deeper understanding of Dabrowski's dynamisms to conceptualize Identity Development Theory (Williams). After being introduced to the theory, players will take the young versions of iconic characters — Batman, Dorothy from Wizard of Oz, Princess Leia, Spock — through game scenarios and watch their identities develop, as explained by this theory. By the end of the session, you will have a firm grasp of identity development and major concepts, you will have fun watching familiar characters evolve in new ways, and you will have the confidence to further apply dynamisms and Identity Development Theory to your own life and the lives of gifted children, adults, students, clients, and characters!