Northern Writers Awards 2026

A huge congratulations to Nathan Graham and Safa Maryam on their success in the Northern Writers’ Awards 2026!

Nathan Graham – Winner of the Young Northern Writers’ Award (aged 15-18)
Nathan Graham is a 16-year-old member of Rotherham Young Writers. In 2025, he was a winner of the Foyle Young Poets of the Year and recently performed as support for Scottish poet Len Pennie at Flux Rotherham. What the judges said about Nathan’s portfolio:

“An outstanding example of how humour can be used to highlight social inequalities and injustices. I admired how politically aware and astute they are, and the authenticity and intelligence of the work.”

Safa Maryam – Longlisted for the Northern Debut Award for Poetry
Many congratulations also to Hive Poetry Collective member Safa Maryam, who was longlisted for the Northern Debut Award for Poetry. Safa Maryam is a poet and doctor. Her work has been published and anthologised by Mslexia, Northern Gravy, Butcher’s Dog and The Poetry Business, amongst others. She has been a finalist in the Mslexia Poetry Competition, shortlisted for the Bridport Prize, and most recently longlisted in the National Poetry Competition.

Previous Hive writers who’ve been placed in the Young Northern Writers’ Awards include Isabella Merino Garzon, Lauren Hollingworth Smith, George Woodhead, Hala Mukhair, Nefeli Frida, Isabelle Pollard, Eloise Unerman, Naomi Thomas, Ciah White, Charlie Jolley, Maisie Mair and Haider Nazir.

More about the Northern Writers’ Awards

Established in 2000 by New Writing North, the Northern Writers’ Awards support new, emerging and established writers across the North of England. The awards recognise exceptional work-in-progress and offer support including cash awards, mentoring, professional development and industry connections to help writers develop their work and progress their careers.

The Northern Writers’ Awards are produced by New Writing North and supported by Northumbria University, Arts Council England and a range of partners. For more information: www.newwritingnorth.com