Re-Meet a Staff Member: Nicky Ruddell
Yellow Arrow Publishing would like to reintroduce Nicky Ruddell, an editorial associate (originally a Yellow Arrow reader). Nicky is a poet from British Columbia. Her work has appeared in Trouveillle Review, Literary Mama, and Yellow Arrow Journal. Nicky works as a social worker in the school system, and she is currently working on a chapbook for publication.
Nicky says, “I am enjoying learning the editing process and looking at [others’] work with a different lens.”
Tell us a little something about yourself:
I grew up on a Salt Spring island and now live on a bigger island, Vancouver Island, with my husband and two children. In my free time I enjoy reading, writing, and painting.
What do you love most about where you live?
I live in Nanaimo, British Columbia. We live in a beautiful valley, surrounded by trees. I love how I can put on my running shoes and be surrounded by trails within minutes.
How did you get involved with Yellow Arrow?
I had a poem published in the Yellow Arrow Journal HOME (2020). I then joined the team as a reader in 2022. I am excited to try something new. Taking on an editorial associate role feels like the right next step to developing my skills.
What are you working on currently?
I have rekindled my love of painting, and I am making time to work on new pieces.
What genre do you write the most and why?
Poetry.
Can you recall an early memory that might have sparked your love of writing/reading?
I remember receiving a journal when I was 8 years old for Christmas. I loved writing and drawing in the journal and have continued to journal daily.
What books are on the top of your to-be-read pile?
The Antidote by Karen Russell and Goldenrod by Maggie Smith.
Who has inspired and/or supported you most in your writing journey?
My family consistently inspires and supports me.
If you could have a workspace anywhere, where would it be and why?
I would have a small modern cabin in the San Franciso Bay area with lots of windows. Inside would be bookshelves filled with books and cozy furniture with lots of light. My deep connection to northern California is a powerful source of inspiration for me.
What advice do you have for new writers or anyone starting a new adventure?
Keep writing your stories and continue to work outside of your comfort zone.
What’s your vision for Yellow Arrow in 2026?
I see Yellow Arrow growing its readership and continuing to inspire and elevate women’s voices.
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Yellow Arrow Publishing is a nonprofit supporting women-identifying writers through publication and access to the literary arts. You can support us as we LUMINATE a path for women-identifying creatives this year by purchasing one of our publications or a workshop from the Yellow Arrow bookstore, for yourself or as a gift, joining our newsletter, following us on Facebook and Instagram, or subscribing to our YouTube channel. Donations are appreciated via PayPal (staff@yellowarrowpublishing.com), Venmo (@yellowarrowpublishing), or US mail (PO Box 65185, Baltimore, Maryland 21209). More than anything, messages of support through any one of our channels are greatly appreciated.