Writers Lab FAQs
We’ve answered some of the questions you might have for the MFEST Writers Lab below
Format
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Submit this application form to info@mfest.org stating ‘Name, Surname – MFest Writers Lab’ in the subject line by Monday 13th September 2021. We’ll ask you to attach a PDF file to this email with 1,000 words of fiction or up to 5 pages of a screenplay or a scene from a play you've written. (NB: We are not accepting poetry).
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Submissions should be attached as a PDF doc using a 12 pt regular font, with page numbers and, at least 1.5 spaced. Do not put your name in the PDF or in the file title.
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Please put the title of your sample piece as the file title.
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Add the word count to the top right of the first page. The title is not included in the word count.
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Do not add cover or title pages.
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Rules
Entry implies acceptance of all the rules and failure to comply may result in disqualification.
IMPORTANT: All entries are judged anonymously. Please do not include your name, address, phone number, email, website, twitter handle etc on the document.
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Writers must be available on dates of the weekly evening workshops throughout Autumn 2021 with dates being shared to chosen applicants in September 2021.
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Writers must be available on Saturday December 4th 2021 for an in-person all day workshop in London (venue TBC). Accommodation and travel expenses will be covered.
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The MFest Writers Lab 2021 is only for Muslim writers.
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You cannot enter if you are represented by an agent or have previously published a book or collection. The MFest Writers Lab is specifically aimed at emerging Muslim writers who do not have representation and who want to learn more about a particular medium of writing.
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If your work has been published in an anthology or zine (as part of a broader body of work), you can apply.
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All entries to be written in the English language.
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Poetry and nonfiction will not be accepted as sample pieces.
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Open to all ages above the age of 18.
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Entrants must submit under their real name or a pseudonym, but will be disqualified for using a celebrity/known name. Names won’t be changed on any of our content if a pseudonym changes in later years.
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Do not include photos or images with your submission.
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Once an entry is received, no revisions are allowed.
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All decisions made by the judges regarding the winners are final. We will not be able to provide feedback to unsuccessful entries.
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Is this opportunity open to people outside of the UK?
When will I hear if I’m in the cohort for MFest Writers Lab 2021?
We will be carefully reviewing every single application submitted. We will be getting back to all applicants in mid-September 2021.
Is there an age restriction for applicants?
Applicants must be aged 18 or over.
My best work does not fit the page count requirements. Can I still apply?
We will only accept submissions that fall within the page count requirements.
What happens once you’ve applied?
You will be sent an email confirming that your application has been submitted. Once you receive this, you do not need to take any further action.
Will I get any feedback on my application?
Due to the volume of submissions expected, we unfortunately are not able to give individual feedback to every applicant.