Starting a writing career can be daunting, but the Fine Print mentorship programme is here to guide you. Apply today to gain invaluable skills, industry connections, and opportunities to advance your writing career!
Kickstart Your Writing Career with the Fine Print Mentorship Programme
Starting a career as a writer is a mammoth task; even armed with a tertiary qualification, any aspiring writer is competing with hundreds of other hopefuls with every job application. It can be nearly impossible to break into any writing-related industry or role without a portfolio of work and the right industry connections. This reality inspired the creation of the Fine Print mentorship programme.
This one-year programme aims to equip aspiring writers in Nelson Mandela Bay with the skills, writing samples, and references they need to increase their employability. The programme is currently accepting applications from writers eager to hone their craft.
A Foot in the Door
“I was fortunate at the start of my career that one of my classmates was already employed as a journalist, and could recommend me when his employer was looking for a freelancer,” said Odette Parfitt, the programme head for Fine Print. “From there, I had to prove myself until I was appointed permanently, but the more exposure I gained, the easier it was to build a reputation and gain access to other opportunities. It all started with getting my foot in the door, which is often the hardest part for writers starting out, especially if they don’t have professional experience or contacts.”
With this in mind, Odette recruited a group of mentors from various industries passionate about helping to develop and guide the next generation of writers. “We are starting small, with 10 mentors and keeping the programme to Nelson Mandela Bay only, but there’s always room to grow later if the need arises.”
A Personal Commitment
One of the mentors who stepped up is 041Online editor Eleanor Douglas-Meyers, who also serves as the programme liaison. “I’ve always believed in being what you needed—offering the kind of support and guidance I was fortunate enough to receive when I was a rookie writer,” said Eleanor. “I had incredible mentors who shaped my journey, and now, through the Fine Print mentorship programme, I have the chance to give back. This programme is invaluable because it not only refines a writer’s craft but also provides the encouragement and insight needed to navigate the industry with confidence.”
Programme Details
The programme will run from April 2025 to March 2026 and will incorporate events that allow mentees to network and learn from industry experts. Through a rotation system, each mentee will also learn from more than one mentor, ensuring they finish the programme with a diverse set of writing skills. Mentees will even have a chance to have their work published, with the support of Fine Print’s media partner, 041Online.
To apply as a mentee:
- All mentees must:
- Be based in Nelson Mandela Bay
- Be able to meet with their mentor once a month
- Have access to a computer, internet, and an email address
- Have a qualification related to writing or some writing experience
- Not be currently employed as a writer
Applicants will be required to complete a questionnaire and a writing test as part of the application process.
Important Dates
Applications close on 23 March 2025. All applications must be submitted here.
For any queries, interested parties can contact the programme head at:
fineprint.nmb@gmail.com
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