The Quebec Writers’ Federation consists of over 860 members, a diverse group of individuals who are writing, reading, and passionate about English-language literature in Quebec. The diversity of our membership is what makes the QWF community vital, and we’re always open to new additions. Whatever your experience as a writer, you will always find a warm welcome and valuable opportunities to share with your peers.
Who should join?
All QWF members receive our monthly e-newsletter with details of opportunities, submissions, contests, residencies, conferences, workshops and more, across Quebec, Canada, and the world. There are also particular development opportunities for writers at all levels:
- Aspiring writers: For those who are just starting to explore creative writing – from short fiction to memoir, poetry to genre to screenwriting to getting that novel underway, QWF has twice-yearly workshop series to suit everyone. The annual CBC/QWF Writer-in-Residence opportunity is open to all members, and you don’t need to have a publishing history. Shut Up & Write! sessions are free and open to all members looking to find some dedicated quiet writing time. If you’re chosen for the QWF Mentorship program, you’ll have a rare opportunity for free one-on-one professional support, and if you’re not, you can always hire a mentor: our Hire-A-Writer directory provides a curated list of writers who may be engaged for tailored, individual support. Our regular Member Meetups are open to
all, and provide the chance to chat informally with fellow writers. - Emerging, mid-career, and established writers: QWF offers plenty of opportunities for published writers at all levels: the chance to be chosen as a Writer-In-Residence or a Mentor, or to be featured in the Hire-A-Writer directory. You can further your professional development by taking a workshop, or you can apply to lead one! Attend an information session to learn how to pitch a magazine editor or write a better grant application. Polish your skills or experiment with a new genre in a master class. We’ll also keep you well informed of outside opportunities, like writing residencies, contest deadlines, and application periods for programs like Writers in CEGEPs.
- Students: Membership for full-time students is just $25 for a year. This gives a 50% discount on any QWF workshop, access to our free Shut Up & Write! sessions, and the chance to meet and engage with published, professional writers across all genres at our regular Member Meetups.
- Anyone who loves literature… join! Take a workshop, come to a Member Meetup, host a literary dinner or tea, and party with us at our annual literary awards Gala. Connect with and support English-language literature in Quebec!
What do I get with a QWF Membership?
In addition to the opportunities offered above, all QWF members receive…
- A monthly e-newsletter with details of workshops, submissions, contests, opportunities, residencies and more in Quebec, North America, and internationally.
- Invitations to a diverse range of Member Meetups – from a 5 à 7s to theatre visits to schmoozers to Open Mics to the annual QWF family-friendly picnic.
- Advance notice and discounts on QWF workshops (membership must be processed first before receiving discounts on workshop registration)
- Discounts for various bookstores, theatres, journals, and partner organizations. Follow the link for a downloadable PDF listing full discounts.
- Discounted entry to the Words & Music Show and Throw Poetry series.