The PEN ON FIRE Writing Competition and Workshop
Our flagship program, POF, is an annual contest and skill training event for writers in Nigeria. Our team has designed this program to nurture writers’ talent, hone creative writing skills and provide recognition.
With 5 successful editions in our belt, and almost a thousand graduates of our workshop, Pennacle is empowering writers through POF, with invaluable resources, expert help and a supportive community to master their skills and propel forward. We welcome aspiring wordsmiths, seasoned scribes and everything in between; whether your aim is to publish a book, enhance your skills, profit with your skills or explore new genres.
This program is a 2-package deal, combining a competitive writing marathon and intense workshop. Our aim is to uncover the next literary sensation while helping writers blend their skills and talents with artistic intent, and inspiring them to advance their careers creatively and professionally. Participants will engage in a rigorous but exhilarating multiple stage writing contest, face eviction based on their submissions, and benefit from tutorials and lessons pre recorded by experts in the field. By the end of each edition, the most outstanding contestant is crowned the winner and receives a generous cash reward while two deserving runners-up are awarded publication benefits and other prizes.
The Competition phase involves 2 submission rounds and an eviction round. Contestants are required to produce original works tailored to a given theme or prompt. This is your chance to showcase your unique style and voice. Our panel of judges, composed of venerable authors, editors and literary agents will evaluate the submissions based on creativity, uniqueness and quality of writing and then conduct eliminations.
The Workshop phase runs alongside the Competition, involving intensive learning following a tailored curriculum covering a variety of areas including creative writing techniques, skill monetization, editing, publishing insights and marketing your work. Participants receive the workshop curriculum and program schedule upon registration.
This programme is 100% virtual. All activities take place on our e-learning website and other private platforms that participants shall receive access to. The program concludes with a celebratory event where the winner is announced and rewarded.
See Past Winners and Winning Pieces Here
POF6: See Details About The Next Edition
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We don’t just learn and compete. Writers are able to connect with fellow writers, literary agents and editors; to discuss and share experience, gain feedback, and find accountability partners to support your writing projects beyond the program.
Prizes and Recognition
Cash reward for the winner differs per edition but ranges from 200,000 NGN to 500,000 NGN. Runners up receive exclusive opportunities for publication including our manuscript preparation class worth 900k NGN, guidance for submission to literary agents or publishers, and a featured spot in Pennacle’s literary magazine, showcasing their winning piece.
Beyond the thrill of the competition, workshop and networking opportunities, all participants additional benefits such as:
Ongoing feedback – constructive critiques from editors during the workshop phase
Access to industry insights – the Workshop phase includes panel discussions and QA sessions with publishing professionals and literary experts.
Resource materials – curated learning materials, writing prompts, reading lists and publishing guides.
Recognition and exposure – access to new audiences through social media features, newsletters and featured content related to the event.
Certificate of Completion
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Eligibility
Writers aged 15 and older, whether aspiring, upcoming and experienced. If you love writing and are looking to test your skills, we’d love to have you. Entry is limited to a given number of participants per edition.
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Participation Fee
4000 NGN. All fees are final and non-refundable.
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Rights
Pennacle asks for first rights only for all featured pieces. Rights revert to the contributor after publication. Winning pieces along with bylines are published in the next digital edition, an average of 3 months after program completion.
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Join the Next Edition
Become a part of this one of a kind experience, master your craft and join hundreds of writers who are discovering their creative power and purpose. Whether you're just starting out, considering writing as a hobby or looking to elevate your skills, this program will set you on a course to mastery and success.
See Reviews from Participants of Past Editions
See Participation Guidelines
For Inquiries, Partnerships and Sponsorships?
Contact the POF team at penonfire@thepennacle.com