According to Canning Vale College student Ryan Toor, writing isn’t just about imagination, it’s rather about empathy and awareness.
Ryan’s short story ‘The White Lily’ won first place in the 2025 York Festival Short Story Competition (17 years and under category). This earned him praise for his lyrical writing style and heartfelt portrayal of dementia.
The story was inspired by Ryan’s grandfather’s diagnosis and by the enduring love he has witnessed between couples facing memory loss.
“The White Lily was inspired by the enduring love I witnessed in couples facing dementia, and by my own grandfather’s diagnosis,” Ryan said.
“Even as confusion deepens, moments of clarity and connection still shine through. The story honours those bonds that persist beyond words and memory; showing how gestures and understanding carry love forward.”
Described by judges as “lyrical and unhurried” with “a painterly attention to colour and sensation”, the piece stood out for its emotional truth and strength.
Ryan said learning he had won was both humbling and motivating.
“Getting involved with the York Writing Festival was a meaningful step in sharing stories with a wider community,” he said.
“It felt like recognition of the importance of themes such as memory and love, especially in the context of dementia. It motivated me to keep telling stories that touch hearts and raise awareness.”
Instead of keeping his $250 prize money, Ryan chose to donate it to Alzheimer’s WA to support people living with dementia.
“My family, friends and teachers were very supportive,” he said.
“Supporting Alzheimer’s WA through my writing means using my voice to bring light to a condition that affects so many lives. Writing becomes not just a creative outlet but also a form of advocacy.”
Ryan’s parents said the family’s own experience with dementia had influenced both his story and compassion.
“Our family experience, particularly with Ryan’s grandfather who is living with dementia, has inspired his writing,” said his mother, Sharan Toor.
“Ryan has witnessed the challenges and tenderness of this condition and it moved him to share those experiences in ways that evoke empathy and support for others.”
She said the family was incredibly proud of his decision to donate the prize money.
“It showed his kindness and commitment to making positive impact beyond writing, turning his success into support for a cause close to our hearts,” she explained.
“I hope readers take away that while dementia may take away memories, it cannot erase love,” he said.
“True connection and affection live beyond the mind, in gestures, shared moments and the heart.”
