Commonwealth Short Story Prize

In the vast realm of literary competitions, some stand out not just for the prestige they offer, but for the doors they open. The Commonwealth Short Story Prize is one such beacon, illuminating the path for writers from the vast expanse of the Commonwealth nations. Let's embark on a journey to understand what makes this prize so coveted.

The Commonwealth Short Story Prize isn't just another writing competition; it's a celebration of storytelling, diversity, and the shared history of the Commonwealth countries. Organized by the Commonwealth Foundation, this annual award seeks to unearth, develop, and promote the best new fiction from across the Commonwealth.

• Prize Money: The stakes are high, and so are the rewards. The overall winner walks away with a whopping £5000, while the regional winners aren't left behind, each receiving £2500. That's not just a financial boost; it's a testament to the writer's skill and the story's impact.
• Eligibility: The competition is open to any citizen of a Commonwealth country. Whether you're from the bustling streets of India, the serene landscapes of New Zealand, or the vibrant cultures of Africa, your story has a place here.
• Participation: Individual. Because every story is personal, every narrative unique.
• Deadline: Mark your calendars for 1 November 2023. And if you're notorious for missing deadlines, set a reminder for 23:59 CET. You wouldn't want to miss this opportunity.

The beauty of the Commonwealth Short Story Prize lies in its openness. There's no set theme. Writers are free to submit whatever they feel represents the best of their abilities. The goal? To champion the voice of the writer, to bring to the fore stories that might otherwise remain unheard. Whether it's a tale of love in Lagos, a drama in Dhaka, or a mystery in Melbourne, if it's a story worth telling, it's a story worth submitting.

While the cash prize is undoubtedly a significant draw, the real reward is the recognition. Winning the Commonwealth Short Story Prize is akin to receiving a literary knighthood. It's an acknowledgment of the writer's talent, potential, and contribution to the world of literature.

And if you're wondering how this prize stacks up against others? Let's just say that in the world of short story competitions, the Commonwealth Short Story Prize is the equivalent of the Oscars in the film industry.

While the specifics of the schedule might vary, the essence remains the same. Writers submit their stories, which are then evaluated by a panel of esteemed judges. These stories go through rigorous rounds of selection, with the best being shortlisted and eventually, the winners being announced.

If you're a citizen of a Commonwealth country and have a story to tell, this competition is for you. Age, profession, and previous publications don't matter. What matters is the story.

The Commonwealth Foundation is not just an organization; it's a movement. With its roots dating back to 1965, the foundation has been at the forefront of promoting culture, democracy, and development across the member states. The Short Story Prize is just one of the many initiatives aimed at fostering talent and giving a platform to voices from the Commonwealth.

The Commonwealth Short Story Prize is more than just a competition; it's an opportunity. An opportunity to be heard, to be recognized, and to be celebrated. So, if you have a story brewing inside you, this might just be the time to put pen to paper. After all, stories have the power to change the world, one word at a time.