WILLOWLEE
Welcome to Willowlee. Through my writing and art I aim to create a better understanding of the world and our place in it — a mission which has cast me in many different roles: writer, photographer, and horse lover. Read some of my work, look at some of my pictures and follow the journey I take with my horses.
A BIT ABOUT ME
Hi there, I'm Samantha Coppin, a twenty-five-year-old who is absolutely in love with words and nature. By day, I have the incredible opportunity to teach English to students from year 7 to 12 in my hometown of Narrabri. But whenever I get any spare time, you'll most likely find me surrounded by my friends, family, community, furry companions, or immersed in the beauty of nature. Exploring the local natural wonders, like the Yulladunida walking track in Mount Kaputar, is my favourite way to spend my free days.
My journey into the world of writing began when I graduated from the University of Canberra with a Bachelor's in Writing in 2018. Later on, I pursued a Masters in Secondary Teaching in 2020, blending my passion for words with my desire to inspire and educate young minds. Through my teachings, I aim to show my students the comfort and power that words can bring, enabling them to better understand themselves and the world they live in.
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Over the past few years, I've been humbled and honoured to receive recognition for my contributions and dedication. In 2022, I was incredibly proud to be awarded the title of Narrabri Young Woman, which speaks to the connections I've built within my community. To further give back, I've taken on the role of Secretary for the Rotaract Club of Narrabri from 2023 to 2024, where I can contribute my time and skills to meaningful causes.
Being closely connected to rural life and agriculture, I was overjoyed to receive the 2023 Zone 4 The Land Sydney Royal AgShows NSW Young Woman Winner award. This allowed me to represent my hometown at the Royal Easter Show as one of the 14 The Land AgShows NSW Young Woman State Finalists which was an unforgettable experience. And just recently, in 2023, I was thrilled to be awarded Rotaractor of the Year for my local club, which further fuels my dedication to service.
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For me, life is a beautiful journey of learning, giving back, and connecting with others. I'm passionate about inspiring the younger generation to find their own love for words and the natural world, and I hope to leave a positive impact wherever I go. With every passing day, I'm grateful for the opportunities that come my way, and I look forward to embracing the future with an open heart and a curious mind.
WHERE YOU LEAD
April 28th, 2022
I recently self-published a collection of poems and photographs that speak a written truth.
Sometimes even the strongest fall,
a violent wind sends them tumbling.
A need for nights under a star lit sky,
the glowing sun placing it's fingers
against their cheek,
re-channeling growth to their roots.
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Within these carefully crafted verses, I sought to capture the intricate journey of growing up, chronicling the trials and tribulations faced by young adolescents as they ascend to adulthood. The metaphorical comparisons serve as a guiding thread throughout the collection, weaving tales of transformation and self-discovery that resonate deeply with readers of all ages.
'Where You Lead' stands as a poetic witness to the universal struggles of youth, exploring themes of resilience, identity, and the ever-present search for meaning. Each poem forms a beautifully painted portrait, reflecting the hues of emotion and experience that colour the canvas of adolescence. Through the poignant verses, I endeavoured to create a tapestry of shared experiences, providing solace and understanding to those who have traversed the path of youth.
"The fidelity of a horse is a precious gift demanding no less binding moral responsibilities than the friendship of a human being. The bond with a horse is as lasting as the ties of this earth can ever be."