Tejumola Olaniyan Creative Writers-in-Residence Fellowship – The Africa Institute Paid Fellowship for Emerging and Established Writers Focused on Africa and Its Diaspora

The Tejumola Olaniyan Creative Writers-in-Residence Fellowship is an esteemed residency program established to honor the late Nigerian scholar Tejumola Olaniyan. This fellowship is dedicated to supporting and celebrating creative voices engaged in the literary exploration of Africa and its diaspora. The program aims to foster intellectual exchange and cultural connection, providing a platform for writers to develop their craft while contributing to the ongoing discourse in African and African diaspora studies.

Eligibility Criteria

This fellowship is open to both emerging and well-established creative writers, including novelists, short story writers, poets, playwrights, and scriptwriters. The eligibility criteria are as follows:

• Applicants must have a strong record of creative literary excellence, including awards, fellowships, or other forms of recognition.

• Applicants must be actively working on a major literary project (e.g., novel, memoir, collection of essays, poetry, film script, or a full-length play).

• Applicants must have at least one published work (book, journal, or significant online platform) or a substantial portfolio that demonstrates their commitment to writing.

• Writers whose work is related to Africa and the African diaspora are strongly encouraged to apply.

• Priority will be given to applicants who employ innovative approaches to storytelling, form, or language.

• Preference will also be given to applicants whose work shows potential to contribute to critical literary culture, scholarship, or public discourse.

Program Details

• Program Duration: 3 months (typically starting in the fall each year).

• Location: Sharjah, UAE.

• Funding: A total grant of 50,000 AED for the duration of the fellowship, which includes:

  • Monthly stipend of 10,000 AED.

  • Accommodation, return airfare ticket, and visa costs.

• Languages: The proposed project can be in Arabic or English, though other languages may also be considered.

• Support: Fellows will have the opportunity to publish their work through The Africa Institute’s publication program. Projects relating to theatre and film scripts may also be supported for production.

How to Apply

Applicants must submit the following documents:

1. CV/Résumé

2. Two-page narrative (single space, font 12) detailing the project to be undertaken, its significance, and a proposed completion date.

3. Sample of published or unpublished writings or creative work for evaluation.

Important: Compile all materials into a single PDF file in the following order: CV/résumé, two-page narrative, and writing sample.

File Naming Convention: OCWRP_LASTNAME_FIRSTNAME.pdf

Application Process

• Submit the completed application materials as a single PDF document.

• All applications will be reviewed by a committee of faculty and fellows at The Africa Institute.

• Three recipients will be selected based on the quality and feasibility of their proposal within the timeframe of the residency.

Important Dates

• Application Deadline: Thursday, April 17, 2025.

This is an exceptional opportunity for creative writers who are passionate about African and African diaspora narratives. We encourage you to apply and take advantage of this chance to bring your literary projects to life while contributing to the broader literary and cultural discourse. Don’t miss the chance to be part of a dynamic community of writers at The Africa Institute.

Apply now and be part of this prestigious residency program!

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