The generous recognition by the Ireland Chair of Poetry Trust opened the door to a world of wisdom, warmth and support. As an international student in Ireland, I often questioned my right to write from — and in — this place, this tradition. The award shored up my belief in my self and gifted me a conspiratorial sense of belonging. It gave me the courage to dismantle the training wheels and push off the hill. It had the effect of saying: ‘Go. Do your work. We have your back.’ There is no greater encouragement.
Nidhi Zakaria Eipe (2019 Student Bursary Recipient, UCD)
The Ireland Chair of Poetry Trust is delighted to open the call for submissions to the 2020 Ireland Chair of Poetry Student Award.
Now in its second year the award was created to encourage and assist students who are pursuing Masters degrees in Creative Writing or in Poetry.
This award is open to Masters students studying for Masters degrees in Creative Writing or in Poetry in Queen’s University Belfast, Trinity College Dublin or University College Dublin.
A minimum of one award will be made per participating university, with a further three awards available, provided sufficient merit is shown, and distributed at the discretion of the judging panel. Each award is valued at €1,000.
Please ensure you have read the submission guidelines before submitting. To access the application form click here.
Deadline for submission of applications is 5.30pm Friday the 28th February 2020.
All applications and queries can be made via email to chairofpoetry@poetryireland.ie