27th April to 2nd May, 2021
Kampala, Uganda
Overview
The African Writers Trust Writing and Reading Residency is a unique, hybrid programme integrating virtual and in-person platforms and experiences. The residency will bring together writers and readers in one space for a variety of literary activities including writing, reading, book discussions, and finding new ways of connecting with fellow writers, readers and other book enthusiasts.
The residency will comprise an online writing workshop, silent reading sessions, book discussions with authors in residency, and peer reviews. The residency will focus on the following genres: novel, short story, and creative non-fiction essay. Participants will also get one-on-one consultations with the tutors and guest speakers to discuss their writing goals and feedback on assigned work.
Tutors
The programme will be facilitated by the following tutors and guest speakers:
Jennifer Nansubuga Makumbi a Ugandan award-winning novelist and short story writer. (Link: https://jennifermakumbi.net/)
Mildred K. Barya a writer and poet. She is currently Assistant professor of English Literature and Creative Writing at University of North Carolina-Asheville.
Okey Ndibe a novelist and distinguished professor of creative writing.
Goretti Kyomuhendo a Ugandan novelist, director of African Writers Trust, and literary activist.
Otieno Owino is an editor and publisher. He completed an MLitt (with Distinction) in Publishing Studies at the University of Stirling, UK, as a Commonwealth Scholar.
Who can participate?
The Residency is open to writers seeking to develop their craft and produce publishable works as well as readers interested in expanding their knowledge and methods for reading and analysing works by creative writers.
Duration
The Residency will run for six days from 27th April to 2nd May, 2021.
Venue
The Residency will be hosted at HotSprings Villas (HSV) in Ndejje, along Entebbe Road, Uganda. HSV is a quaint, cosy hotel boasting panoramic, spectacular views of Kampala City and Lake Victoria. The hotel offers a serene environment which will stimulate and rejuvenate your reading and writing muses.
Benefits
- The opportunity to learn, share and further your skills in critical reading and the craft of writing
- The opportunity to engage in one-on-one interactions with distinguished writers, creative writing tutors and peers
- The opportunity to gain an understanding of the possibilities of creative writing by expanding your reading and writing methods across different genres
- The opportunity to network with fellow writers, readers, publishers and other book enthusiasts
- Participating writers will be directed to opportunities aimed at developing their careers such as contests, prizes, publishing opportunities, trainings, conferences and others.
Costs
Each participant will be required to pay a fee of $450. The fee entitles you to:
- An online writing workshop
- Full board accommodation at Hotsprings Villas for five nights (including bed, breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
- A free copy of An American Marriage by Tayari Jones and Arrows of Rain by Okey Ndibe
- A barbeque night with poetry recitals, dancing, and other performances
- Workshop materials including handouts and access to Wi-Fi.
How to participate
Submit one file containing the following:
- Brief biography of not more than 200 words
- Contact information: phone number and email address
Send the information to:
info@africanwriterstrust.org, and kizzaatawt@gmail.com
Please include in Subject Line: African Writers Trust Writing and Reading Residency.
Deadline: Sunday, 18th April at 5 pm GMT
How to pay
- For East African nationals, you may pay using: Airtel money (+256 753 033086) or MTN mobile money (+256 775 685909). All registered as Mark Akampurira Edson.
- For international participants, you may use Money Gram, Western Union or bank transfer.
PLEASE NOTE THAT WE SHALL OBSERVE ALL THE STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES TO PREVENT THE SPREAD OF THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC ACCORDING TO THE SET GUIDELINES BY THE UGANDAN GOVERNMENT.
