Inaugural First Nations fellowship in Cambridge open to applications

A new fellowship offers First Nations writers the opportunity become a writer-in-residence at the University of Cambridge.

Philanthropic organisation Cambridge Australia Scholarships (CAS) is providing the fellowship for an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander writer or storyteller working in any literary form, including poetry, fiction, nonfiction, playwriting or criticism, to stay at the University of Cambridge from 3 October to 1 December 2023.

The writer will have ‘special access to the city’s creative and intellectual life’ and be given the chance to ‘immerse themselves in their craft’. They will have access to groups on campus, such as the Cambridge graduate network Indigenous Studies Discussion Group (ISDG). First Nations Australia Writers Network chairperson Yvette Holt visited the university and held multiple discussions with ISDG in November 2022.

The writer is expected to produce original writing on their own project and take part in the creative life of the English faculty. On completion of the residency the writer must complete a written report.

Successful applicants will receive one economy-class return flight, accommodation at Clare Hall, travel insurance, and one term of general living and maintenance costs. The Faculty of English will welcome the fellow into an affiliate role equivalent to a ‘visiting fellow’ and provide access to faculty facilities, University libraries, IT support, a University ID and email account, and invitations to faculty events and lectures.

More information is available on the Cambridge Australia Scholarships website.

Category: Local news