What we do: Megaphone Writers CIC provides development (mentoring and workshops) for people of colour in England who want to write for children and teenagers. Our ultimate aim is to change bookshelves so every child can see themselves in stories. For more details, browse the website pages or click through the buttons below. We are currently running a scheme, and closed to applications.
“I have never been on a writing scheme where there has been so much support and guidance, as well as a phenomenal range of masterclasses, open door sessions and ask the editor/agent events. Truly astonishing.”
– Iqbal Hussain, Megaphone Mentee (2022)
What we have achieved: Our previous mentees have included Branford Boase and Jhalak Prize winner Maisie Chan (Danny Chung Does Not Do Maths, Keep Dancing Lizzie Chu ), multiple prize winner/ nominee Danielle Jawando (And the Stars Were Burning Brightly, When Our Worlds Collided) and Joyce Efia Harmer (How Far We’ve Come). Several of our most recent mentees have also signed with literary agents. Since Megaphone began, so many writers connected with the scheme have gone on to be published that on Megaphone Bookshelf we’re starting a collection!
“Real, targeted, personalised support. Equitable, transparent and meaningful. The support is amazing and I have learnt tonnes.”
anonymous comment on Dec 2021 survey
Who we are: The scheme was founded by Leila Rasheed, a children’s author, in 2015. She realised the world of children’s literature didn’t reflect the diversity of the world around her, and decided to use her skills as a creative writing tutor to do something about it. In 2016-2017 she mentored 5 writers and managed the project. In 2020, the impact of Covid meant that Megaphone went online, allowing us to set up Community and reach far more writers than before, and editor Stephanie King came aboard to help. In 2023, former mentee Avantika Taneja also took on some project management.
Who funds us: Arts Council England has supported Megaphone through its entire existence via their National Lottery Project Grants. Our work in 2023 – 2024 is also generously supported by ALCS. We’re enormously grateful for the past support we have received from Writing West Midlands , Usborne Publishing, The Publishers Association and other partners and generous individuals since 2015. If you or your organisation would like to help us help children’s writers of colour, please have a look at the Get Involved page for some ideas.
