Will Kostakis is only 35 years old, but his career has already spanned nearly two decades. From a contracted author at 17 to Storyfest’s new patron in 2025, he shares some of his inspiration behind a career that resembles more a vocation.
In the literary world, few names resonate with the vibrant energy and fearless vocation of Will Kostakis. Now, as Storyfest’s new patron, Kostakis brings his wealth of experience, humour, and heartfelt storytelling to inspire a new generation of young writers and readers. A published author since his teenage years, Kostakis has long been a favourite at literary festivals, and his journey from aspiring writer to award-winning author is a testament to his dedication to the craft.
The village behind the author
When asked about his early ambitions, Kostakis fondly recalls an incident in Year 2 when he read a story aloud to his classmates. “Either people were looking at me or staring absentmindedly at the back of the room, I can’t exactly remember” he jokes, “but at any rate, I thought they were looking at me.” That spark of recognition led to a lifelong love of storytelling, in more than one forms.
However, being a natural storyteller and a published author are two different things.
Will credits his success not just to his own determination but to the teachers who nurtured his talent. “It took a whole village to make me an author,” he admits, recalling how educators tirelessly put time and effort into encouraging a blossoming passion. Their influence, along with his insatiable appetite for reading and storytelling, set him on a path that saw him secure a book deal at just 17.
But his journey was anything but straightforward. “I was sending books to publishers in Year 7 – they were not ready,” he laughs. There were many turned down manuscripts before he scored a publishing contract. But through perseverance and owing to a whole village’s mentorship, Kostakis honed his craft, turning a childhood passion into an award-winning career.
A deep connection with Storyfest
Will’s relationship with Storyfest spans more than a decade, beginning as a guest author after the publication of his second book. For him, Storyfest has always been a hallmark of literary achievement. “It was the sign that you’d made it,” he says.
Over the years, Will has evolved from participant to advocate, embracing the festival’s mission to inspire a love of reading and writing in young people. “Storyfest is one of those rare events where you leave feeling creatively recharged,” he explains. “You meet kids who are engaged, encourage those who might be disengaged, and connect with other authors and educators.”
A patron with purpose
Who could’ve thought that ten years on, he would be Storyfest’s new patron? In this new role, Will is committed to championing the festival’s inclusive and far-reaching goals. He’s particularly inspired by its efforts to engage students from regional and less privileged backgrounds. “I know firsthand how transformative meeting an author can be,” he says. “Storyfest works hard to ensure that opportunity isn’t just for kids at well-resourced schools but for as many Queensland students as possible.”
He is especially excited about the festival’s regional satellite events, which bring the magic of Storyfest to communities that might otherwise miss out. “Storyfest doesn’t accept the inequality of experience,” he says. “They’re making a real difference, and I’m honoured to help amplify their efforts.”
Vulnerability and connection
As someone who’s felt called by the power of words from an early age, Will recognises the influence literary programmes can have during school years.
One of Will’s most poignant moments at Storyfest occurred when he shared a deeply personal story about losing his best friend in high school – a loss that inspired one of his books. Initially reluctant to discuss such a heavy topic, Will was struck by how the audience of teenagers responded. “There were 500 kids, and you could hear a pin drop,” he recalls. “It created a space to talk about grief and connection, and I realised the value of being vulnerable with my audience.”
This experience underscored for Will the power of authenticity in storytelling. “It’s about meeting teenagers where they are and treating them as equals,” he says.
Will's advice for aspiring writers
Will often shares advice with young writers, encouraging them to focus on the joy of the craft rather than rushing to achieve publication. “Stop looking at the finish line,” he advises. “Enjoy the process of writing, find your voice, and focus on the story itself.”
He also reminds students that writing isn’t just about becoming an author. “When you text your friends, you’re writing,” he points out. “Make those words crackle just as much as your short stories or novels.”
Looking ahead as Storyfest’s patron
As Storyfest’s new patron, Will hopes to expand the organisation’s reach and support its mission of fostering a love for reading and writing across Queensland. While he’s still defining his role, he’s eager to contribute in any way he can. “Whatever I can do to prop up the incredible people who run this festival, I will,” he says.
For Will Kostakis, Storyfest is more than an event – it’s a celebration of stories, a platform for connection, and a catalyst for inspiration. As he steps into his new role as patron, one thing is certain: Will’s passion and dedication will leave an indelible mark on the festival and the young writers it seeks to inspire.
