We are delighted to announce the inaugural fellows of the quarterly fund dedicated to supporting Nigerian writers.
The selected fellows, in no particular order, are:
1. Súnmisọ́lá Olúdé
2. Chizitere Madeleine Nwaemesi
3. Korede Vough
4. Juliana Nwazodoni
Programme Lead, Pamilerin Jacob commented: “dRAFTed was created to serve as a steadying hand and the selection of Fellows followed that criteria. The strength of statements, current income, as well as previously published work helped paint a portrait of those we consider most in need of that Hand.
"There were applicants whose artistic vision was undeniable but could not be selected because they fared better, say, in matters of current income compared to fledglings.
"There were also applicants whose vision seemed blurry, but previously published work helped clarify poverty is the culprit, not the artist. All this does is reassert that this is a programme that hands out laurels, not crowns. It is a privilege to have read through all submissions.”
dRAFTed's mission is to empower Nigerian writers by easing the financial burdens that can interrupt the creative process. Through quarterly support, the fund enables writers to remain focused on their craft and maintain stability in their daily lives.
Benefactors of this cycle:
- Christtie Jay
- Tolu' A. Akinyemi