About the Open Call

Established in honor of the late Nigerian scholar Tejumola Olaniyan, this fellowship supports literary voices engaged in the creative expression of Africa and its diaspora. The residency takes place in Sharjah, UAE, an essential nexus of African-Arab cultural interaction. Recipients are invited for a three-month period to complete works-in-progress or new projects, with the opportunity to publish their texts through The Africa Institute’s publications program. Projects involving theatre and film scripts can also receive support in facilitating productions.

What is Offered

A grant of 50,000 AED in total, which includes accommodation, a return airfare ticket, visa, and a monthly stipend of 10,000 AED. Publication and production support are also available.

Requirements

The fellowship is open to both emerging and established creative writers working on a major literary project (novel, memoir, essays, poetry, film script, or full-length play). Applicants must have at least one published work and a creative portfolio related to Africa and the African diaspora.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted through the online application platform provided on the website. Applicants must include a CV, a one-page cover letter, a two-page project statement, and one published writing sample. Attachments should not exceed 3 MB each.