Two African literary magazines have been recognized in the 2025 Chill Subs Incubator, a program launched by Chill Subs to support five literary magazines in developing financial sustainability through a $1,000 grant, a year of mentorship, and a Community of Literary Magazines and Presses (CLMP) membership.
The announcement placed NWF Journal, published by the Northern Writers Forum in Minna, Nigeria, among the winners, while Ubwali Literary Magazine, based in Zambia, was named a finalist. They are the only African magazines featured in this year’s cohort of 15.
Launched by Chill Subs, the Chill Subs Incubator is a free database of literary magazine and writing opportunities that provides grants, resources, and mentorship to five literary magazines annually to help them become financially sustainable and grow their operations, with a focus on ethical publishing and serving underrepresented communities. The project, which began in 2022 with the goal of promoting financial sustainability and ethical practices within the literary publishing world, awards winners a $1,000 grant, a membership in the Community of Literary Magazines and Presses (CLMP), and access to a network of experienced editors.
About NWF Journal
A literary magazine dedicated to publishing groundbreaking poetry, fiction, creative nonfiction, visual arts, and literary criticism from Northern Nigeria, Africa, and the global diaspora, NWF Journal’s aim is to spotlight emerging and under-represented voices, especially young writers, while stimulating a culture of literary excellence, experimentation, and dialogue. Through quarterly issues, interviews, and reviews, they provide a multicultural platform that celebrates cultural heritage, language, and artistic innovation.
About Ubwali Literary Magazine
Ubwali is an independently funded, volunteer-run online literary magazine, founded in 2023 by Mubanga Kalimamukwento, that publishes and promotes exceptional Zambian and, in honor of Africa Day, wider African fiction, poetry, and essays in English. Known for stories and poems described as elegant, confident, and polished, Ubwali is committed to amplifying African voices and celebrating African storytelling. The magazine offers a platform for artists through its online issues, submissions, and also hosts a masterclass and hope prize to support emerging writers.
Congratulations, NWF Journal and Ubwali Literary Magazine on your big win!
Bakare Oluwatobiloba
I write to educate, motivate and define history with literature. Just being me!
