We’re thrilled to unveil the shortlist for the inaugural Global Black Women’s Non-Fiction Manuscript Prize, a groundbreaking initiative honoring the intellectual and literary brilliance of Black women worldwide.

The five shortlisted manuscripts were selected from an extraordinary longlist spanning four continents—Africa, Europe, and the Americas. These works delve into diverse themes, including mental health, spirituality, environmentalism, Black beauty, food politics, and more. Each manuscript exemplifies the transformative power of Black women’s voices, reshaping narratives and sparking vital conversations in non-fiction.

Chair of Judges, and award-winning author, Bernardine Evaristo emphasised the importance of this prize, stating “Chairing this prize has been a richly rewarding experience and process of discovery of a wonderful range of manuscripts that reveal the breadth of black women’s intellectual and creative enquiry. The talented shortlisted writers show us that the universe of black women’s ideas, experiences and perspectives is full of talent, promise and adventure.”

The five (5) shortlisted manuscripts are as follows:

ANXIOLYTIC NOTES by Helena Sylvestre (Brazil)

In an intimate and deeply evocative exploration of anxiety, identity, and resilience, Anxiolytic Notes delves into the lived experience of an Afro Indigenous woman in Brazil. This compelling work navigates her mental health challenges amid the social and environmental crises of the Anthropocene.

ELEMENTAL SOLIDARITY by Sindi-Leigh Mcbridge (South Africa)

Elemental Solidarity is a provocative and immersive exploration of how African and Afro-diasporic artists offer fresh, urgent insights on the climate crisis, challenging traditional science about climate science, through culturally resonant art that redefines how we see, feel, and respond to environmental change.

BLACK BEAUTY MODEL AGENCY by Desta Haile (Eritrea)

What do the iconic Grace Jones, a trailblazing Liberian diplomat, a striking Mormon supermodel, the legendary Richard Roundtree, a Buddhist visionary from Harlem, Sheryl Lee Ralph, and Eritrea’s revered Poet Laureate have in common? Black Beauty Model Agency. This vivid and reflective journey through 1960s NYC invites readers into an Afro-diasporic world of elegance and transformation. Haile introduces the extraordinary women who founded it and the remarkable individuals they signed, each reshaping fashion and culture.

the cosmic matter of Black lives by Cherise Morris (United States)

the cosmic matter of Black lives is an evocative collection of lyric essays, poetic interludes, and rituals that delves into the intricate philosophical, political, cosmological, and spiritual layers of Blackness. This compelling work converges at the intersections of enduring and evolving anti-Black violences, systemic inequities, environmental injustices, and ecological disruptions.

THROUGH THE LENS OF FOOD: A DECOLONISED EXPLORATION OF BLACK, MIDDLE-CLASS IDENTITY by Pamella Gysman (South Africa)

Through the Lens of Food reveals how food acts as a powerful marker of identity, strength, and agency within an unequal society. Through a richly nuanced exploration of South Africa’s Black middle class, it immerses readers in a dynamic reality where food becomes a vital tool for self-definition, connection, and belonging.

With backing from institutions including Alitheia Capital and Open Society Foundations Africa the prize offers the winner a publishing contract with Cassava Republic Press and a generous $20,000 advance. Additionally, two runners-up will each be awarded a $5,000 advance and a publishing deal.

Stay tuned for the final announcement on December 4th, 2024, as we continue to honour the exceptional talent of these Black women.