Applications for the 2024 cohort are closed.
An accountability and support group for South Asian writers.
The Pardesi Fiction Writing Group, launched in 2023, is a cohort-based programme that combines the desire to create written work, either new or already in progress, with the desire to meet and chat with other writers belonging to the same community.
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Open to both unpublished and published authors, the programme's structure combines goal setting, prompts, small groups, and synchronous meetings, resulting in a unique format that's meant to give writers accountability and support with their projects. All accepted cohort members are given the opportunity to submit their work to the programmes digital fiction zine near the end of the programme.
Features Of The Programme:
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share your work
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receive feedback
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dedicated "write-in" time
Monthly Meetings
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dedicated space for quick writing prompts
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sharing resources, and connecting with members between meetings
Slack Space
Accountability Groups
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match into semi-autonomous small groups based on your project
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project goals for an added layer of support
What our FWG alumni think!
Uproots & Off-Shoots
Flip through our new 2024 - 2025 cohort' amazing writing!
Download the 2025 zine through this link.
Flip through our 2023 - 2024 cohort' amazing writing!
Download the 2024 zine through this link.
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Is there an application process for mentees?There will be a competitive application for mentees. They will have to submit their CVs, their intentions, and career goals so we can accurately appoint them a mentor. They will have the opportunity to indicate a preference for a mentor, but we do not guarantee this assignment. Please ensure that you have read the guidance above and use this link to apply for the program.
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What does the commitment look like?We are asking our mentors to commit to mentoring ONE mentee for one hour per month across a six-month period. (October 2021-March 2022) All sessions should take place virtually to ensure COVID compliance, personal and physical safety. After the 6 months are over, you may opt to extend your relationship, but this will then be outside of our programme and will be a private, personal mentorship relationship.
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What is the structure of the programme?We will be distributing brochures that will have guidelines for topics and questions. We suggest that in your first session, you set an agenda or a structure for the length of the programme. In the first session, identify what your mentee's goals and aspirations are, so that you can shape the experience accordingly.
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Which industries did the mentors come from?With every iteration of the program we have strived to include as many industries as possible. Our last cycle featured mentors from the following industries: Finance and Business, Law, Medicine and Public Health, Politics, Sports, and the Arts (specializations included Fashion, Journalism, Photography, and Film among others).
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Who can apply for the mentorship program?You can apply to be a mentee if you: Identify as a South Asian woman and/or South Asian femme and/or South Asian non-binary person. Are aged between 18 and 25 years old. Are passionate about self-development, specifically personal and professional growth. Are able to dedicate 1 hour per month to virtual meetings with your mentor, setting goals, and working towards them. Seek to join a wider community of like-minded individuals. Are either at the college level or in the beginning-to-early career stage. This program is not suitable for individuals in the early-mid, mid, or late career stages. However, if you are considering a career change, please specify this in your application form.