Boundless Indigenous Writer’s Mentorship Program
The program will pair an emerging Indigenous writer from anywhere in Australia with a senior Indigenous writer for a structured year-long mentorship. The writer will receive 20 hours of mentorship over the following year, including feedback on their work in progress and general advice on writing and developing a publishing career. If possible, an opportunity to meet with the mentor face to face will be provided. The writer will also receive editorial feedback and manuscript development from Text Publishing and access to Writing NSW professional development services.
For 2021 the runner-up will also receive 20 hours of mentorship from a senior Indigenous writer thanks to a private donation.
At the conclusion of the mentorship, Text Publishing will have the exclusive first right to consider the winning manuscript for publication, under terms to be negotiated with the writer.
Writers do not need to have a full manuscript at the time of submission, though they must have made substantial progress on a manuscript, which they intend to complete (refer to submission requirements). Applicants must not previously have had a full-length work of fiction or non-fiction professionally published.
Submissions must be either a work of fiction (including short story collections) or narrative non-fiction for adult, kids (middle grade), or young adult. Please note that poetry, plays, picture books, and practical non-fiction are ineligible.
Submissions will be judged by Tony Birch, best-selling author and winner of the 2020 NSW Premier’s Award for Indigenous Writing, in consultation with representatives from Text Publishing and Writing NSW. Tony Birch said:
‘It is such an honour to be involved in this project. The relationship between a mentor and young writer is an invaluable experience for all involved.’
Tara June Winch, inaugural Boundless judge and mentor said:
‘The opportunity to work with a master is not only significant for the emerging writer, but also for the mentoring author. The process they undergo is as old and sacred as our culture, the handing down of the skills and tools needed to one day be passed down again and again. Being able to teach and to learn in such a close and guided fellowship is a once in a career moment.’
Closing Date Monday 23 November, 2020