The 2022 cohort in a training session

We Are Not Numbers is recruiting young Palestinian writers to participate in a training program that builds writing and journalism skills.

Over several months, the 2026 cohort will be offered writing workshops, mentorship, editing support, and publishing opportunities. The program is intensive, collaborative, and designed to support writers at different stages of their journey.

WANN’s training of young writers was interrupted in October 2023. Throughout the genocide, it continued to publish stories and poems from writers who previously had receiving program training, and it also published works by other emerging writers eager to have their voices heard and to document their experiences. In all cases, writers were paired with mentors (experienced, published writers in English) to help develop their theme and topic, shape their narrative, and refine their writing so that they connect with Western audiences.

For two years, however, WANN was not able to continue with the core part of its project, which is to provide the training that helps writers refine foundational skills.

WANN has now re-established an office in Gaza City and hired Ahmed Dremly, an alumni of the training program, as the Gaza-based project coordinator.

“This call for new writers is a step forward in continuing WANN mission to amplify authentic Palestinian voices,” says Walah Sabah, WANN’s executive director.

“Every writer is important to strengthen WANN’s collective ability to document lived realities with depth and dignity. Recruiting new writers is an investment in the preservation of truth and the shaping of global understanding.”

Between 30 and 40 participants will be accepted into the program.

Applications must complete an online application form and meet all of the following criteria:

1. Have strong English reading and writing skills.
2. Be between 18 and 30 years old at the time of application.
3. Be able to commit approximately 6 hours per week for a minimum of four months.
4. Identify as Palestinian (living in Palestine or in the diaspora).
5. Commit to ethical storytelling and creative integrity, including submitting original work that has not been published elsewhere.

The deadline for applications is March 1, 2026.