The programme is open to applicants aged 18 and above. You do not need to be a published writer to apply. Your selection is based on the writing you submit.

You need to submit a response to the prescribed writing prompt: a story or essay of up to 400 words, or a poem of fewer than 16 lines. You can also submit a recent piece of writing of your choice.

No. A publishing history is not a requirement for application. If you have been published, you can mention your publishing history, but the quality and potential of your submitted writing are central to the application.

You will be asked to indicate the genre you are most interested in or comfortable writing. This helps us understand your writing interests. The Anita’s Attic Mentorship Programme is not divided into separate genre-specific courses. Writers across genres learn together, with the mentorship shaped around each participant’s individual writing journey.

The programme includes one-to-one interaction with Anita every Saturday. Participants can also reach out to her during the week when they need guidance on their writing. This may include discussing an idea, working through a difficulty or seeking direction on a manuscript in progress.