Writers are set to benefit from the newly launched CrowdPen African Voices Fellowship, a prestigious program designed to empower emerging writers of African heritage. This initiative aims to provide a platform for diverse voices, nurturing the next generation of thought leaders who will shape narratives, spark important conversations, and inspire positive change across the continent.

The CrowdPen African Voices Fellowship offers participants a unique opportunity to gain mentorship from established literary figures and industry professionals passionate about nurturing talent. Fellows will engage in hands-on workshops, receive personalized feedback, and have the chance to see their work published on CrowdPen, reaching an eager audience hungry for fresh and authentic perspectives.

Participants will learn from experienced writers who are dedicated to guiding them through their writing journeys. Moreover writers will have the chance to publish their work on CrowdPen, allowing them to connect with readers and showcase their unique voices.

To apply for the fellowship, candidates must be of African descent or have strong ties to the African continent and should demonstrate a passion for writing and storytelling.

The launch of the CrowdPen African Voices Fellowship comes at a crucial time when diverse narratives are needed more than ever. As Africa continues to evolve, empowering writers from various backgrounds will play a vital role in shaping the continent’s future.

This initiative not only aims to uplift emerging voices but also seeks to create a vibrant literary community that reflects the rich tapestry of experiences and perspectives found across Africa. With its commitment to fostering talent and promoting authentic storytelling, the CrowdPen African Voices Fellowship is poised to make a significant impact on the literary landscape in Ethiopia and beyond.

Elias Sime, a prominent Ethiopian contemporary artist, has garnered attention at the recent Sotheby’s auction in London, where his work “Tightrope: Split In Half” was featured among notable pieces by African artists. This auction, held on September 27, showcased a growing interest in African contemporary art, with several works achieving record prices.

Elias’ piece, created in 2017 using reclaimed electronic components sourced from Addis Ababa’s Minalesh Tera Market in Merkato, reflects his innovative approach to art and his critique of technology’s impact on society. The work sold for £72,000 (approximately US$90,000), falling within the estimated price range of £70,000 to £90,000.

The auction highlighted a broader trend of increasing global recognition for African artists. This was underscored by the record-breaking sale of Ethiopian-born artist Julie Mehretu’s painting last November for US$10.38 million, which set a new benchmark for African-born artists.

Elias Sime’s participation in the auction aligns with a significant moment for African contemporary art as it gains traction in the international market. His work often explores themes of global interdependence and the stories embedded in discarded materials, inviting viewers to reflect on the delicate balance between technological advancement and its societal consequences.

At the auction, other notable works included pieces by renowned artists such as Irma Stern and Ben Enwonwu, further emphasizing the richness of African artistic expression. Elias’ presence among these celebrated artists marks a pivotal moment for Ethiopian art on the global stage.

As interest in African contemporary art continues to grow, Elias Sime’s innovative contributions are helping to redefine perceptions of the continent’s artistic landscape and its potential within the global art market.

During the auction Irma Stern’s “Lady of the Harem,” an oil on canvas from 1946, a striking depiction of a Zanzibari woman in traditional attire, with henna patterns subtly hinted on her hands and feet was sold for a staggering £960,000 (over US$1.2 million). This is the highest result at an African Art auction for the last three years, according to the organisers.

Ben Enwonwu’s Nigerian Beauty (1959) is a striking oil painting that captures both the elegance and the symbolism of a nation on the verge of independence. According to Google Arts and Culture, the artwork was painted just before Nigeria gained independence in 1960, reflecting the pride, optimism, and emerging identity of the country. The piece is sold at £144000 (more than US$192,000).