Honouring Literary Excellence

(L-R) Michael Sobota and Marianne Jones, photo by Alan Dickson Photography

NOWW Celebrates Regional Literature With Annual Writing Awards

By Sara Stoppel 

This past weekend, the Northwestern Ontario Writers Workshop (NOWW) hosted its 27th annual LitFest at Goods & Co. The two-day event concluded with the NOWW Awards Gala on May 17, where Marianne Jones and Michael Sobota, two influential local writers, were celebrated for their significant contributions and support to literature in the region.

The Kouhi Award, first granted to poet Elizabeth Kouhi in 1999, recognizes writers who make extraordinary contributions to the region’s literature. The 2025 Kouhi Award was presented to author and poet Marianne Jones at the Saturday night gala in recognition of her valued presence in the literary community. 

“I feel honoured and touched by the support of my peers and acknowledgement by the writing community,” says Jones. 

Jones has had a tremendous career in literature. She has penned eight books, such as her 2021 novel Maud and Me, which reflects on women's struggles particular to the region during the 1980s. Her body of work also includes the mystery-thriller novel The Serenity Stone Murder and her expansive poetry collection.  Jones’ work has received multiple awards from Writer’s Digest, The Canadian Authors Association, The Word Guild, and more.

 The Margaret Phillips award is given to an individual or group that supports and promotes Northern Ontario’s literature and was presented to Michael Sobota for his dedication to advancing literary arts in the region. 

“To be given this award is a tremendous honour. I’m deeply humbled and very grateful to receive it,” says Sobota. 

Sobota has made an enormous impact on regional literature through his work as a writer and reviewer. He began his career as a playwright over four decades ago and later became a renowned literary critic. His work has ranged from reviewing international stars, including Johnny Cash, to covering local, emerging artists in the region. Sobota is also a valued writer for The Walleye Magazine, where he regularly contributes a film column. In addition to critical reviews, he has also worked to educate and support other writers through leading workshops and spotlighting local talent. 

NOWW’s LitFest continues to be a cornerstone in the Northern Ontario literary community. “Thanks to NOWW, writing in Northwestern Ontario has flourished,” says Jones in her acceptance speech.