African Institute 2025's Tejumola Olaniyan Resident Creative Writers Fellowship: An Unmissable Opportunity for Cape Verde's Creative Writers

The African Institute 2025's Tejumola Olaniyan Resident Creative Writers Fellowship represents a unique opportunity for creative writers from across the African continent, including Cape Verde. This residency offers a dedicated space for the development of literary projects, the exchange of ideas and immersion in an intellectually stimulating environment. This article explores the importance of this scholarship, its benefits for Cape Verdean writers and how to apply.

The Legacy of Tejumola Olaniyan and the African Institute

Tejumola Olaniyan was a renowned scholar of African and diasporic literature. His work influenced generations of academics and writers. In honour of his legacy, the African Institute seeks to promote excellence in African research and artistic creation. The residency grant for creative writers is one of the Institute's most important initiatives, aimed at supporting the development of new African voices and narratives.

Objectives of the Scholarship

• Promoting contemporary African literary creation.
• Offering a dedicated workspace and resources for writers.
• Facilitate the exchange of ideas between writers and academics.
• Contribute to the development of African literature on a global level.

Benefits for Cape Verdean Writers

For Cape Verdean writers, the Tejumola Olaniyan Scholarship offers a number of significant benefits:

• Time and Space: The residence provides dedicated time and a quiet space to concentrate on writing, away from the distractions of everyday life.
• Financing: The grant includes a stipend to cover living expenses during the period of residence.
• Mentoring: Resident writers have access to experienced mentors who can offer guidance and feedback on their work.
• Networking: The residency offers the opportunity to meet and collaborate with other writers, academics and literary professionals.
• Visibility: Participation in the scholarship increases the visibility of the writer's work and can open doors to new opportunities for publication and recognition.

Cape Verde, with its rich oral and written tradition, has much to contribute to the African literary scene. The Tejumola Olaniyan scholarship offers Cape Verdean writers a platform to share their stories and perspectives with the world.

Example of Success: Impact on African Writers

Although there is no specific example of a Cape Verdean writer who has taken part in the scholarship (due to its relative novelty), we can observe the impact of similar residencies in other African countries. For example, the Caine Prize Workshop, although different in format, has boosted the careers of many African writers, offering them opportunities for professional development and international visibility. The Tejumola Olaniyan Fellowship has the potential to have a similar impact on the writers who take part.

How to Apply for the Tejumola Olaniyan Scholarship 2025

The application process for the Tejumola Olaniyan Scholarship is competitive and requires careful preparation. Applicants must demonstrate literary talent, a clear writing project and a commitment to African literature.

Eligibility Requirements

• Be an African writer living on the continent or in the diaspora.
• Have a writing project in progress (novel, short story, poetry, theatre play, etc.).
• Demonstrate literary talent through writing samples.
• Have a good command of English (the Institute's working language).

Required documents

• Completed application form.
• Motivation letter describing the writing project and the candidate's objectives.
• Writing samples (up to 20 pages).
• Curriculum vitae.
• Two letters of recommendation.

Tips for a Strong Candidacy

• Choose an original and relevant writing project: The project should reflect his unique voice and address important themes in contemporary African literature.
• Write a convincing motivation letter: Explain why you are the ideal candidate for the scholarship and how the residency will benefit your work.
• Select the best writing samples: The samples should demonstrate your literary talent and your potential as a writer.
• Ask for letters of recommendation from people who know your work well: The letters should emphasise your qualities as a writer and your potential for success.
• Proofread your application carefully: Make sure all documents are complete and free of errors.

Conclusion

The African Institute 2025's Tejumola Olaniyan Resident Creative Writers Fellowship is an extraordinary opportunity for creative writers from Cape Verde and across the African continent. By offering time, space, funding and mentoring, the fellowship empowers writers to develop their literary projects and contribute to the enrichment of African literature. We encourage all eligible Cape Verdean writers to apply for this fellowship and take advantage of this unique opportunity to boost their careers and share their stories with the world.

Don't miss out on this opportunity to jump-start your literary career! Apply now!

Application deadline: 17-4-2025

Apply now for the African Institute 2025 Tejumola Olaniyan Resident Creative Writers Fellowship! Find out more and apply here.