The Literature Section of Chuka University has announced an exciting opportunity for creative minds within its student community. The Story Fest Writing Competition 2024 invites students to showcase their storytelling talents through original, engaging, and thought-provoking short stories. With an array of captivating themes, enticing prizes, and the promise of publication, this competition is a golden chance for writers to let their creativity shine.
Purpose: Encouraging Creativity and Talent
The purpose of this competition is to foster creativity and provide a platform for aspiring writers to express themselves through storytelling. Writers are encouraged to delve deep into their imagination, crafting narratives that not only entertain but also evoke emotion and provoke thought. Whether you’re an experienced writer or just starting, the competition welcomes all voices, offering the perfect space to develop and showcase your writing abilities.
Thematic Prompts to Spark Inspiration
Participants have the opportunity to explore one of four unique prompts, each designed to challenge and inspire:
These prompt invites writers to explore the fine line between predator and prey, weaving suspense into a gripping tale of reversal.
A theme that explores the heartache of war, fractured friendships, and the complex emotions of loyalty, betrayal, and survival.
A more grounded but no less compelling prompt, offering the chance to explore the quiet strength of rural life, the struggles, and the unspoken beauty in everyday work.
Eligibility and Story Requirements
Open to all current students of Chuka University, this competition encourages originality and dedication. Submissions must be between 3000 and 4000 words, allowing enough space to develop well-rounded characters, compelling plots, and rich settings. Each story should be typed, double-spaced, and formatted in Times New Roman, 12 pt. font, with justified text and page numbers. To maintain fairness, participants are required to submit their stories anonymously, using a pen name or unique identifier.
Judging Criteria: What Sets a Story Apart
Stories will be judged on a range of criteria, ensuring that entries are evaluated on both technical skill and creative flair. Judges will look for:
With these factors in mind, entrants are encouraged to carefully craft their stories, ensuring their work is both technically sound and creatively bold.
Exciting Prizes and Publication Opportunities
Writers have the chance to win cash prizes of KSH 30,000 for the winner, KSH 20,000 for the first runner-up, and KSH 10,000 for the second runner-up. In addition to the cash prizes, shortlisted manuscripts will be published on Yours2read.com, offering aspiring writers a valuable opportunity to showcase their work to a wider audience. This combination of financial reward and publication potential is a powerful incentive for any writer looking to make their mark.
Submission and Deadlines
Entries must be submitted by midnight on 1st November 2024 via the Yours2read website, where participants will need to register as authors. The final sentence of each story should include the following text: “short story competition, October 2024, Chuka University – [Your Title].” This ensures that entries are clearly identifiable for judging.
A Celebration of Talent and Creativity
This competition offers Chuka University students the perfect platform to express their creativity, challenge themselves, and gain recognition for their talents. It’s not just about the prizes or the publication; it’s about discovering the power of storytelling and connecting with readers in a meaningful way.
For students looking to push their creative boundaries, this is an opportunity not to be missed. Let your imagination run wild and join us in celebrating the art of storytelling.
“The role of a writer is not to say what we all can say, but what we are unable to say.”
— Anaïs Nin