OWFI: A Writer's Conference That Puts Writers First
The Oklahoma Writers Federation Inc. (OWFI) stands out among writing conferences for its strong focus on writers rather than readers. As Vicki Malone Kennedy, the current OWFI president, explained on episode 40 of the TikiMan and the Viking Podcast, "OWFI is a writer's conference. Most of the people that attend are writers... We cater primarily to the writers."
What Makes OWFI Special?
OWFI has cultivated a reputation for being structured yet flexible. The conference has sessions from 9 to 5 on Friday and Saturday, but each president and conference coordinator chooses a unique theme that carries through everything from sessions to decorations and parties. This year's theme is 1930s-40s detective noir.
The organization boasts approximately 30 affiliate groups across multiple states including Oklahoma, Texas, Arkansas, and Kansas. While about 20 of these groups are very active, OWFI's reach extends far beyond these states, with members from across the country and even internationally.
A Conference Built for Connections
One of the most valuable aspects of OWFI is the opportunity to connect with agents, publishers, and fellow writers. Host Brian "The Viking" Johnson shared his own success story from last year's conference, where he pitched his book "Middle-aged Man in a Trash Can" and connected with a publisher.
"If you're a writer... you got to go to a conference, you got to get out there, you got to do that face-to-face thing," the viking said.
Kennedy agreed, noting that many writers have launched their careers through connections made at OWFI: "You can meet your agent. You can meet your publisher. You can meet your next big deal right there at the conference."
Beyond formal pitching sessions, many valuable connections happen during meals, late-night drinks, and casual conversations. As Kennedy pointed out, "Rising tides lift all ships" in the writing community.
2025 Conference Highlights
This year's OWFI conference will be on May 1-3, 2025, at the Embassy Suites in Oklahoma City. Notable highlights include:
- Keynote Speaker: Jim Butcher, author of the Dresden Files and the Cinder Spire series
- Master Class: Also taught by Jim Butcher (open to the public for $60)
- Sessions: 23 speakers covering various aspects of writing
- Agents: Four agents taking pitches across most genres
- Awards: The Saturday night banquet will honor winners of the annual writers contest
Kennedy secured Butcher as the keynote speaker in a surprisingly straightforward manner—through Facebook. After initial contact, Butcher directed her to his manager to make the arrangements, which is not always the case. In previous years, securing keynote speakers has sometimes come down to the wire.
Community of Mentorship
At its core, OWFI is about helping writers develop their careers through mentorship and community. "We're all about mentoring people. We want people to come in and ask us whatever they want to know," Kennedy said.
For writers looking to connect with fellow writers, learn from experienced professionals, and potentially meet agents or publishers, OWFI offers a welcoming environment. Registration for this year's conference is still open at owfi.org.
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