Nigerian-British writer Irenosen Okojie has been named one of the first winners of the Royal Society of Literature’s (RSL) new Scriptorium Awards.
The prize, founded by RSL President Bernardine Evaristo, offers ten writers an exclusive residency at a cottage on the Kent coast, providing space and time to focus solely on writing.
Born in Nigeria and raised in the UK, Okojie has established herself as a leading voice in contemporary literature. She is the author of the novel Butterfly Fish, Speak Gigantular and Nudibranch, and won the 2020 Caine Prize for African Writing. In 2021, she was awarded an MBE for Services to Literature and currently serves as Vice Chair of the Royal Society of Literature.
Okojie’s work has been widely recognised, appearing in publications such as The New York Times and The Guardian, and has earned praise from leading literary figures including Margaret Atwood. Alongside her writing, she has curated festivals, judged major literary prizes and championed emerging talent across the arts.
A specially convened panel of RSL Fellows selected the ten winners, one of whom is Irenosen Okojie. Judges Sarah Sanders, Kayo Chingonyi and Victoria Hislop prioritised writers who do not have their own dedicated writing space and who face barriers to developing their literary careers.
In her words, Sarah Sanders says:
“I was delighted to lead the panel to choose the first-ever winners of the RSL Scriptorium Awards. This is a unique opportunity that demonstrates a deep understanding of the practical challenges facing many writers, offering that often elusive but essential space and time to create without distraction or financial worry.”
Congratulations, Irenosen Okojie!
Bakare Oluwatobiloba
I write to educate, motivate and define history with literature. Just being me!
