Apply for a translator mentorship

About the Open Call

Applications for the 2025–2026 ETM programme are open! The program offers mentorships in various languages including Arabic, Faroese, Dutch from Flanders, Korean, Lithuanian, Norwegian, Polish, and Languages of India. All mentorships are open to translators based anywhere in the world, with specific criteria for the Languages of India mentorship (India-based translators only, no Charles Wallace India Trust fellowship in last five years, must attend London Book Fair). Mentees receive six months of personal mentoring from October 2025 to March 2026, including at least four meetings (in-person, virtual, or phone) and email exchanges. An in-person meeting in Norwich or London is scheduled for 9-12 March 2026. The program aims to support emerging translators, defined as someone who has published no more than one full-length work of literary translation. MFA and MA students are eligible but priority may be given to those without similar guidance. Applications are particularly welcomed from under-represented groups in literary translation.

What is Offered

Mentees receive six months of personal mentoring with a mentor in their language or field. They will also be awarded an £800 stipend to cover expenses, with an uplift of up to £300 if attending London Book Fair (Arabic, Dutch from Flanders, and Languages of India strands receive additional travel support). The mentorship includes online industry events, tailored training and talks, a feature at International Translation Day, attendance of London Book Fair with a networking day in Norwich or London, a concluding digital showcase, and a print and digital anthology with samples of their translations. Mentees are also offered one year’s membership of the Society of Authors/Translators Association.

Requirements

The programme is open to emerging translators, defined as someone who has published no more than one full-length work of literary translation. MFA and MA students in translation can apply, but priority may be given to those who do not have access to similar guidance. Specific eligibility for 'Languages of India' mentorship: India-based translators only, no Charles Wallace India Trust fellowship in the last five years, and mandatory attendance at London Book Fair. Applicants must NOT use artificial intelligence ('AI') for any part of their application, including the sample translation, as this will render it ineligible.

How to Apply

Applications need to be uploaded via a Google Form, requiring a Google account. The application must include: a one-page covering letter detailing benefits and contributions; a CV (max three pages) focusing on translation work; a one-page sample book proposal demonstrating understanding of text, author, source culture, and English market; a sample translation of up to 2,000 words prose or 100 lines poetry/dramatic text (ideally from sample book project); the corresponding source text; and completion of a brief survey on equality, diversity, and inclusion. The use of AI for any part of the application, including the sample translation, is strictly prohibited and will result in ineligibility.