Following the success of our last series of commissions, we’re partnering with QueerAF for another cohort of mentoring. They’ll be running a dedicated series of think pieces as part of QueerAF’s landmark writing scheme, Queer Gaze. And you could be one of the successful writers.
What's on offer?
Three LGBTQIA+ early talent, unpublished and marginalised journalists from Wales will be given the chance to:
- Three QueerAF commissions of a 500-700 word think piece over a period of three months, using the Queer Gaze format – paid at a rate of £100 each. Think of it like a short term-column.
- QueerAF’s unique ‘retrospective’ skills-based sub-editing sessions with each commission so you can understand the editing process, grow your journalistic craft and mini-column communication skills
- Multiple portfolio-building opportunities with content published across QueerAF and Inclusive Journalism Cymru platform
- Two group mentoring sessions with other peers on the scheme, to hone your skills and learn about think pieces.
What is QueerAF?
Focusing on the LGBTQIA+ world, QueerAF support queer creatives to change the media. They’re an award-winning independent platform launching the careers of emerging and underrepresented LGBTQIA+ creatives driven by people, not advertisers.
Ultimately, QueerAF is a platform where creators, journalists and producers can get paid and commissioned directly by the QueerAF community. This while they mentor you to build a career, work in the industry – and then change it.
"Our unique sub-editing and skills sessions have been described as like therapy, but for your writing."
Jamie Wareham
QueerAF Founder
What about the Queer Gaze?
‘The Queer Gaze’ is a space in QueerAF’s newsletter to commission emerging and underrepresented queer creatives so they can get published, receive mentorship and ultimately, kickstart and build your writing career.
The Queer Gaze gives readers eye-opening insight into the experiences and viewpoints in our community they may not have encountered before.
Afterwards, audiences feel intrigued, introduced to new perspectives and inspired to read more.
It’s one part of their weekly newsletter that helps LGBTQIA+ people understand the news, latest queer content and perspectives.
Examples from last year’s cohort of mentees.
How can I apply?
It’s super simple. First up:
- Read the detailed brief of the Queer Gaze. It’s crucial that you understand the concept and have read multiple previous examples.
- Check the key dates: Make sure you’ll be able to commit to the opportunity.
- Check out QueerAF’s contributor guidelines – you’ll need to agree to them to take part.
- Write your first pitch: To apply for the scheme, you just need to pitch what your first article would be about.
This article may not be what you’ll write in the scheme depending on how timely it is, but it will let us know if you understand the task at hand.
Be ready to tell us a headline, your story in three bullet points, and what three sources you’ll use to back up your think piece.
You’ll also be asked to supply some details about you and your previous experience.
Key dates
- The deadline to apply is June 25th 11:59pm.
- We’ll let you know if you’ve been successful by July 1st.
- The first training session will take place during the week commencing July 7th at either 12-1pm, or 5-6pm depending on mentee availbility.
- Commissions will begin in August.
Please ensure you have availability before applying.
Apply here. Happy pitching!