Creating Mentorship for Deaf and Disabled Writers is a mentorship program designed to support the creative growth and professional development of Deaf and disabled writers. The Writers' Union of Canada is committed to building opportunities and cultivating space where Deaf and disabled writers can share tools, strategies, feedback, and knowledge. The program includes one-on-one mentorship, in addition to a virtual networking and professional development session for mentors and mentees.
ELIGIBILITY:
Emerging writers in Canada who self-identify as Deaf and/or are disabled are eligible to apply to the program. Applications must include a piece of writing to focus on and develop during the mentorship. Writers who have one or more full-length published book (traditional or self-published) or contract offer are not eligible to apply. BIPOC Writers Connect mentees are not eligible to apply in the same year in which they are participating as a mentee. Applicants must be 18 or older by the end of 2025.
MENTORSHIP FORMAT:
Mentors are professional writers who are Deaf and/or disabled. Each mentor will choose one mentee to work with. Mentorships will last approximately 10 hours, which will include the mentor’s time reviewing materials and preparing for discussion. Mentors and mentees will have a six-week period for discussion (online discussion, email, or other technology as outlined in the mentorship application and agreed upon with the mentor), revisions, etc. Meeting times to be determined by the mentor and mentee and to be completed within the six-week period in advance of the final networking session.
NETWORKING SESSION:
Following the conclusion of the six-week mentorship period, all mentors and mentees will be invited to attend an online networking and professional development session that will include industry representatives for a facilitated discussion and information sharing.
HOW TO APPLY:
Creating Mentorship for Deaf and Disabled Writers is a free mentorship program, but advance application is required to participate as a mentee. Space is limited. Mentee applications must be submitted online through Submittable. Hard copies will not be considered. If you have any questions about the application process, please contact twuc@writersunion.ca.
Applications are due by October 24, 2025, 11:59 pm PT.
ACCOMMODATIONS & ACCESSIBILITY:
Mentors and Mentees will be asked to indicate any accommodations they require to participate in the program. The Union will make every effort to meet these accommodation needs.
IMPORTANT DATES:
Mentee Applications Open: September 24, 2025
Applications Close: October 24, 2025, 11:59 pm PT / 2:59 am ET
Applicants Notified: December 2025
Mentorships Completed: January to Early February 2026
Networking Session: February 19, 2026, 12:00 pm PT / 3:00 pm ET