THE eThekwini Municipality is calling on all aspiring authors to open a new chapter in their lives by signing up for Articulate Africa’s I want to write a book creative writing programme and competition.

The development programme is open to writers between the ages of five and 15. eThekwini librarian Noma Ngcobo said the aim of this programme is to provide an opportunity to aspiring young writers to develop their writing skills.

She said selected participants will ultimately have their stories published through eThekwini Municipal Libraries. “Through the programme, participants will get a chance to work with literary experts to assist in improving on their writing skills,” said Ngcobo.

“You will also be afforded the chance to network with other young literary creatives and share your aspirations to becoming a published author. An opportunity to become a literary ambassador of eThekwini Municipality.”

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The programme will support young authors up to the publication of their manuscript in a form of a book of compiled short stories.

“If you reach the competition stage, you will be required to write an original story of a minimum of 1000 words and a maximum of 3500 words. Stories must not be emailed,” said Ngcobo.

“Your story will be seen and heard for the first time during the competition stage. All stories must be written in English.”

To apply for the creative writing programme, download or collect the application form from your nearest library. Fill in your details and a motivation expressing your passion for writing and why you want to participate in the programme. All applications must be submitted by Thursday, April 30, to moma.ngcobo@durban.gov.za or zethu.ndlovu@durban.gov.za.

To take part in the competition, you must:

• Be between 5 and 15 years old.
• Be a first-time participant (you must not have entered a writing competition before).
• Complete the official application form.
• Submit a one-page motivation explaining why you want to write a book (This may be handwritten or typed.)
• Be a registered member of an eThekwini Municipality library.
• Be a resident of Durban (eThekwini Municipality).

If you are selected to proceed to the competition stage, please note the following:

• Your work must be your own original creation. Any form of plagiarism will result in disqualification.
• A date for submission of a written story (or manuscript) will be given when you get a notification that you have been selected to proceed to the competition stage
• By submitting your manuscript, you retain full copyright of your work. You also grant the organisers permission to use your work for promotional purposes related to the competition.
• The competition does not cover travel or accommodation costs.
• All selected participants are expected to co-operate with facilitators and library staff, follow instructions and timelines, and abide by a code of conduct.

For more information, contact Noma Ngcobo on 031 322 0439 or email: noma.ngcobo@durban.gov.za.

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