The Happiness Literary Foundation Creative Writers Program
Happiness Literary Foundation Opens Applications for Creative Writers Program
The Happiness Literary Foundation (HLF) in South Africa is now accepting applications for its Creative Writers Program, a free fellowship aimed at helping South African writers develop their voices, strengthen skills, and gain professional mentorship.
Deadline: 6 February 2026
Pay: Free Writing Fellowship
Program Benefits
Participants will receive:
- Mentorship and masterclasses from established South African authors and academics
- Practical training in creative writing craft and technique
- Opportunities to workshop writing with peers
- Support for selected writers to develop and publish a full-length book through Happiness Books
Writers struggling to get past creative blocks can find guidance in how to overcome writer’s block, while all participants are encouraged to refine clarity using sentence rephrasing techniques.
Eligibility Requirements for the Happiness Literary Foundation Creative Writers Program
- South African citizens or residents aged 18+
- Preference for writers from underserved communities, especially women and youth
- Manuscripts should be advanced (40,000–80,000 words)
- Writers must not currently have a publisher contract or literary agent
Application Requirements
Submit one Microsoft Word document (.doc or .docx) to marketing@happinessbooks.co.za
- A short author bio (max 250 words). Tips for writing an effective bio: How to write a short author bio
- Manuscript synopsis (up to 1 page) and target audience
- Manuscript word count
- Writing sample (first 5,000 words of your manuscript)
- Full name and contact details
Formatting guidelines: Arial, Aptos, Times New Roman, Garamond, or Calibri; 12 pt font; 1.5 line spacing.
Source: Writing Africa
This program offers a unique opportunity for South African writers to grow creatively while gaining guidance toward publication.
