Miles Morland Foundation Writing Scholarship: A Guide for African Writers

The journey of a writer, especially one starting out, can be challenging. Balancing the need to create with the necessity of earning a living often leaves aspiring authors with little time or financial stability to focus on their craft. The Miles Morland Foundation Writing Scholarship aims to bridge this gap, offering a unique opportunity for African writers to dedicate themselves to completing their first book. This scholarship provides financial support, allowing writers to concentrate on producing a full draft without the immediate pressure of income generation.

The Miles Morland Foundation, established in 2013 by Miles Morland, a financier with extensive experience investing in Africa, is a UK-registered charity. It supports causes aligned with its founder’s interests, with a particular focus on nurturing literary talent across the continent. The foundation’s writing scholarship is designed to help writers who have already shown promise but need the dedicated time and resources to bring a book-length project to fruition.

Understanding the Scholarship’s Purpose

The core mission of the Miles Morland Foundation Writing Scholarship is to provide a financial cushion for writers. This allows them the freedom to focus solely on writing their first book. The foundation recognizes that for many emerging writers, the demands of daily life can prevent them from completing significant literary works. By offering a substantial grant, the scholarship enables scholars to set aside their other work and immerse themselves in the writing process. This dedicated period is often what’s needed to move a project from an idea to a completed manuscript.

Who Can Apply?

Eligibility for the Miles Morland Foundation Writing Scholarship is specific, aiming to support writers with a direct connection to Africa. The scholarship is open to any individual writing in the English language. Crucially, applicants must either be born in Africa or have both parents who were born in Africa. There are no age restrictions, meaning writers of all ages are encouraged to apply if they meet the birthplace criteria. This inclusive approach ensures that a broad range of voices and perspectives from the continent can be considered.

The Scholarship Grant

Scholars selected for the Miles Morland Foundation Writing Scholarship receive a grant of £18,000. This amount is paid out on a monthly basis over a period of twelve months. This steady income stream is designed to cover living expenses, allowing the writer to fully commit to their project. In certain cases, the Foundation may offer an additional grant for non-fiction writers who require more time for research. This extended support can last for up to eighteen months, acknowledging the unique demands of non-fiction book writing.

Application Requirements

To be considered for the Miles Morland Foundation Writing Scholarship, applicants must submit a comprehensive application package. This includes a substantial piece of published and for-sale work, ranging from 2,000 to 5,000 words. Proof of both publication and sale of this work is also required. Applicants need to provide a scan of an official document that verifies their or their parents’ birthplace in Africa.

Furthermore, a detailed description of the new book the applicant intends to write is necessary. This description should be between 400 and 1,000 words, outlining the project’s scope and vision. A brief biography, between 200 and 300 words, should also be included. Finally, applicants are asked to state how they learned about the Morland Writing Scholarships.

Frequently Asked Questions

For those considering applying, the Miles Morland Foundation provides a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) section on its website. This resource offers answers to common queries regarding eligibility, the application process, and the scholarship itself. It is highly recommended that potential applicants review the FAQ thoroughly before submitting their application to ensure all requirements are met and to gain a clearer understanding of the scholarship’s expectations.

Conclusion

The Miles Morland Foundation Writing Scholarship represents a significant opportunity for emerging writers from Africa. By providing financial support and dedicated time, it empowers them to focus on completing their first book. The clear eligibility criteria and detailed application process ensure that the foundation can identify and support talented individuals who will contribute to the literary landscape. For writers who meet the criteria and have a compelling book project in mind, this scholarship offers a pathway to achieving their literary goals.