Emerging Writers FAQs

The fellowship is a program designed to nurture new voices from the British Virgin Islands. Three selected writers will participate in a three-month virtual mentorship with established writers and publishing professionals. The focus is on developing skills in poetry, fiction, or non-fiction, with personalized feedback, industry insights, and guidance toward publication.

1. The fellowship is open to aspiring writers who are from or based in the British Virgin Islands. Applicants should demonstrate a passion for creative writing and a commitment to developing their craft.

Applicants can apply in: Poetry or Prose

1. A completed application form (available here).
   An original writing sample in 12pt font, submitted as a Word (.doc) or PDF (.pdf) file.
   Poetry: 8–10 pages of poems in a single document.
   Prose (fiction or non-fiction): one story, essay, or chapter not exceeding 5,000 words.

The completed application form and the  poetry or prose entries should be submitted via email to litfest@hlscc.edu.vg with the subject line: “BVI Lit Fest Emerging Writers’ Prize – [Your Name]”

All applications must be received by 19 September, 2025.

1. The three selected fellows will be announced during the 2025 BVI Literary Festival in November.

Fellows will benefit from:
One-on-one mentorship with established writers and publishing professionals.
Personalised feedback on their work.
Insights into the publishing industry.
Guidance on next steps in their writing journey, including publication opportunities.

No. The fellowship is free to apply and participate in.

A total of three fellows will be chosen for the 2025 programme.