We are thrilled to present a new edition of our series dedicated to our members, their projects, and their personalized journeys at La Halte. This week, we’re shining a spotlight on Sophie Laurin, author and freelance writer, who has been a member of La Halte since the beginning of the year.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and tell us about your field of work, mission, and/or services?

I do freelance writing for the web and magazines, in addition to being an author. I work primarily with a teenage audience through Cool! and Miss Cool! magazines at TVA Publications. I’ve also published three novels with Éditions Hurtubise. A fourth is currently in the works, also with Hurtubise.

Why did you choose a coworking space rather than another type of office?

I’ve been working from home for several years and started to feel a bit lonely. I’m a social person, and since my work is very solitary... I often wrote in cafés, but the productivity wasn’t always there. I chose La Halte because of its various workspaces. I can work quietly in the morning, retreat to the basement to write slouched on a couch, or write in a meeting room or in the kitchen. This flexibility allows me to take mental “breaks,” helping me stay creative and productive for longer.

Tell us a bit about your background and what motivated you to become self-employed.

I’ve always been self-employed as a writer and journalist since graduating from university in 2008. In recent years, I began writing novels with the intention of dedicating more time to my own projects. I enjoy the freedom that the freelance lifestyle offers. I like managing my schedule as I see fit.

Can you share some details about the projects you’re currently working on?

I settled into La Halte in January to finish the first draft of my new novel. I started an almost three-month-long writing sprint in the spring. I’m really looking forward to its release, scheduled for the fall!

What are your aspirations and plans for the coming years?

I hope to continue enjoying writing as much as I do now. I’ve had a children’s book project and a teen novel on my mind for some time. I need to find the time to get them down on paper! I also plan to start offering classroom workshops at the high school level and, eventually, in elementary schools as well.

A subscription that fits her style
Sophie Laurin has been benefiting for several months from a flexible hot desk membership, allowing her to tailor her space to her work rhythm while staying connected with other members of La Halte. To learn more about her, visit https://editionshurtubise.com/auteur/sophie-laurin/. Stay tuned for more stories in the coming weeks highlighting other teams and their inspiring accomplishments within our entrepreneurial community!