The Johannesburg Institute for Advanced Study (JIAS) Writing Fellowship 2025 offers an exceptional opportunity for established scholars, creative practitioners, and thought leaders to engage in interdisciplinary research and creative projects centered around the theme of Global Blackness.
The fully funded fellowship residency from 1 April to 30 June 2025 provides the time, space, and resources to focus on innovative writing or creative projects in Johannesburg, a city rich in intellectual and cultural diversity. JIAS welcomes projects exploring Black intellectual traditions, experiences, and theories across geographies and time, fostering a platform for experimental work.
Quick Overview of JIAS Writing Fellowship 2025
- Host Country: South Africa
- Location: Johannesburg, JIAS
- Duration: 1 April – 30 June 2025
- Theme: Global Blackness
- Eligibility: Scholars, creative practitioners, and thought leaders with relevant experience and a strong track record.
- Fellowship Value: Fully funded (details below)
- Application Deadline: 4 January 2025
Perks of Creative Writing Residency in South Africa 2025
- Single return economy airfare to and from Johannesburg.
- Private residential suite at JIAS.
- Breakfast and lunch on weekdays (Mon–Fri).
- ZAR 90,000 for the three months of the fellowship.
- Facilities of the University of Johannesburg.
- Monthly enrichment activities with fellows and local experts.
Benefits of Leadership Development Fellowships in South Africa 2025
- Focus on writing or creative projects without teaching, administrative, or academic pressures.
- Engage with peers across diverse fields to enrich your work.
- Explore and contribute to discussions on Blackness in a dynamic cultural and intellectual environment.
- Enhance your academic and creative portfolio with high-quality outputs.
- Enjoy financial, logistical, and professional support during the residency.
Eligibility Criteria for Global Blackness Writing Fellowships
- For Scholars: Must hold a PhD and have meaningful engagement in their research field, demonstrated through publications and projects.
- For Creative Practitioners: PhD not required but must showcase a strong portfolio, including exhibitions, projects, or interdisciplinary research.
- Individuals from or closely aligned with Global South contexts.
- Women and gender-diverse applicants of color are strongly encouraged to apply.
Important Dates for Racial Equality Writing Fellowships 2025
- Application Deadline: 4 January 2025, midnight SAST.
- Interviews: Virtual interviews for long-listed candidates will be held during the first two weeks of February 2025.
- Residency Dates: 1 April – 30 June 2025.
How to Apply for JIAS Writing Fellowship 2025
- Prepare Documents:
- CV, Bio, and Headshot: Include links to relevant resources, if applicable.
- Motivation Letter: Explain why Johannesburg and JIAS are ideal for your project (max 250 words).
- Project Outline: Provide a detailed synopsis of your writing or creative project (max 1,000 words). Include abstracts, artist statements, and relevant links or images.
- Email your application as a PDF to jiasinfo@uj.ac.za.
- Use the subject line: “2025 Writing Fellowship Application [Your Full Name]”.
Required Documents for JIAS Writing Fellowship 2025
- CV: Highlight academic achievements or creative portfolio.
- Motivation Letter: Explain the significance of Johannesburg for your project.
- Project Outline: Detailed description of your proposed project, including abstracts, statements, or relevant images/links.
Key Features of the Fully Funded Fellowship at the Johannesburg Institute for Advanced Study
- The fellowship encourages projects that examine the geographies, practices, and theories of Blackness. It emphasizes diversity and interdisciplinarity, welcoming scholars and creatives exploring novel approaches to these themes.
- JIAS provides a serene and stimulating environment for fellows, enabling them to dedicate their time to thinking, researching, and creating.
- Engage in monthly enrichment activities, expand your professional network, and interact with the vibrant intellectual community in Johannesburg.
For more details and to apply, visit the official JIAS official website.
