Fighting Words Northern Ireland is calling on young writers to submit Belfast-themed original writing for a Zine to be published in early 2023. The Zine, titled ‘Write up Your Street’ is supported by Belfast Harbour and will feature a collection of short stories, poems, articles and scripts all with one thing in common-they will be inspired by Belfast landmarks and areas.
Hilary Copeland, Director at Fighting Words NI, explained:
“We asked the young people we work with every day where they would like to see their writing published. They told us they wanted a printed collection of their work and to be really involved in its design and layout. Having produced previous anthologies including ‘New Worlds’ in 2022, we know how exciting and empowering the process is in amplifying the voices and creativity of young people.
The Zine is open for submissions via the Fighting Words NI website, from children and young people, aged 8-18 until 15th March 2023. Submissions should be between 20 and 1000 words and writers are welcome to include original illustrations. Writers can choose to write a story, poem, or script connected with a Belfast location that is special to them, such as a street, a park or a building. To support the creative process, Fighting Words NI will post inspiring story prompts on its social media channels throughout January and February.
‘Write Up Your Street’ has been supported by Belfast Harbour’s Community Awards programme and design house Me, Him & Her, allowing Fighting Words NI to produce 4000 copies of the Zine, which will be distributed to venues and businesses all over Belfast, telling stories about the city and its characters.
Allison Dowling, Communications and Marketing Director at Belfast Harbour said:
“We are delighted to support Fighting Words NI in increasing accessibility to creative writing for young people. Belfast Harbour is committed to supporting employability and skills in our local communities and this initiative is a fantastic way for young writers to develop their literary and writing skills.”
For further information and to submit a piece of creative writing, visit https://www.fightingwords.co.uk/write-your-street-fighting-words-nis-zine
Fighting Words NI runs a free, year-round programme of after-school activities for teens alongside creative writing workshops for school groups.
