The Hummingbird Journal is pleased to announce a call for applications for a special historical fiction workshop led by acclaimed Ghanaian writer Ayesha Harruna Attah, as part of our March 2025 issue themed 'Ghana Histories.'
- This workshop is designed for two writers who will be working on a short fiction rooted in Ghanaian history. Selected writers will spend approximately four weeks in guided sessions with Ayesha Harruna Attah, focusing on research, story development, and revision. This is a workshop and mentorship experience, not a standard editorial process.
At the end of the workshop, participants will submit their revised stories for consideration in The Hummingbird Journal’s March issue.
Who Should Apply
- Ghanaian writers (home-based or diaspora)
- Writers interested in working on a short historical fiction set in Ghana or engaging deeply with Ghanaian histories (documented or oral).
- Writers who want the opportunity to be mentored by a seasoned author.
- Writers seeking understanding of how to be historical fiction writers.
- Emerging or early-career writers are especially encouraged to apply.
- Applicants must be available to participate in virtual (Zoom) sessions over four weeks in February 2026.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must:
- Be Ghanaian (by nationality, heritage, or long-term cultural affiliation)
- Be 18 years or older at the time of application
- Be available to participate in virtual (Zoom) sessions over the workshop period
- Be able to commit to research, drafting, and revision within the proposed timeline
- Submit original, unpublished work
Writers based in Ghana and the diaspora are equally encouraged to apply.
What Selected Writers Will Receive
- A guided historical fiction workshop with Ayesha Harruna Attah
- Support with research, structure, and revision
- Publication in The Hummingbird Journal (March issue)
- Public acknowledgement as participants of the workshop
Please note: At this time, we are unable to offer monetary compensation. Publication and mentorship form the core of this opportunity.
Application Requirements
Interested writers should submit the following:
- Statement of Interest (max 500 words)
Why you want to participate in this workshop and what you hope to gain. - Project Synopsis (max 500 words)
A brief description of the historical fiction story you intend to work on, including the historical moment, figure, or context it engages with. - Writing Sample (up to 2,000 words)
This does not have to be the same project you intend to develop, but it should reflect your prose style.
Submission Details
- Deadline: 18th January, 2026
- Apply here: https://forms.gle/CVaSpW6NHcMa8SuSA
To read more about our general submssions guildelines and publication ethos, click here
- For questions, contact: submissions.hummingbird@gmail.com
- We look forward to reading work that brings Ghana’s histories alive in ways we have never seen before.
