Program Overview

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Introduction to the Centre for Creative Writing and Oral Culture

The Centre for Creative Writing and Oral Culture (CCWOC) at the University of Manitoba is a hub for creativity and a place to learn about and celebrate the transformative potential of creative writing and storytelling. CCWOC provides support for established and emerging storytellers and writers within and beyond the university community, aiming to empower people from diverse backgrounds to develop skills and create stories.

Writer/Storyteller-in-Residence Program

The Writer/Storyteller-in-Residence program brings together established and emerging writers and storytellers, offering workshops, one-on-one consultations, and public events. The program, which has been running for over 15 years, is open to UM students, staff, and alumni as well as to the wider community.

Current Writer-in-Residence

Sonya Ballantyne, a Swampy Cree writer, filmmaker, and speaker based in Winnipeg, Manitoba, is the current Writer-in-Residence. Her work explores contemporary and futuristic portrayals of Indigenous women and girls. Her award-winning projects include the documentary Nosisim and the graphic novel Little by Little.

Consultation with Writer-in-Residence

Interested writers can book a 30-minute consultation and submit up to ten pages of writing in advance. Consultations can take place either at the University of Manitoba or online.

Workshops and Events

The program offers a series of workshops and events, including:

• Graphic novels: Writing
• Graphic novels: Artwork
• Graphic novels: Putting it all together
• Screenwriting: Sonya's process
• Screenwriting: Sonya's collaborator Sage's process
• Screenwriting: Developing your process
• A closing event celebrating the work undertaken by Writer-in-Residence Sonya Ballantyne

Application to the Writer/Storyteller-in-Residence Program

Applications are currently being accepted for the Winter 2027 residency. A writer/storyteller is sought for the position of Writer/Storyteller-in-Residence at the University of Manitoba's Centre for Creative Writing and Oral Culture.

Requirements and Responsibilities

The successful candidate will be required to:

• Spend approximately 16 hours per week providing mentorship and practical artistic advice to developing writers and storytellers
• Give a limited number of readings and/or performances on campus
• Lead an informal non-credit workshop series
• Devote the remaining time to their own artistic projects

Salary and Benefits

The salary for the position is $15,000.00 CAD, subject to mandatory deductions. The residency also includes rent-free accommodation and return transportation to Winnipeg.

Application Materials

Applications should include:

• A cover letter summarizing the applicant's qualifications for the position and describing the artistic and mentoring work they would undertake during the residency
• A CV or resume of career achievements
• A writing sample of no more than 20 pages
• Two letters of reference discussing the applicant's skills as an artist and a mentor
• Storytellers are encouraged to submit links to their performance videos

Eligibility and Diversity Statement

Candidates of all nationalities are encouraged to apply, however, preference will be given to Canadian applicants. Full proficiency in English is required, and publications or performance credits in English would be an asset. The Centre for Creative Writing and Oral Culture is committed to principles of employment equity, and all qualified candidates are encouraged to apply.

Past Writers/Storytellers-in-Residence

Past Writers/Storytellers-in-Residence include:

• Poet, editor, and climate organizer Melanie Dennis Unrau
• Writer, teacher, and flutist Sonja Boom
• Anishinaabe/Cree community filmmaker Kevin Settee
• Hispanic writer and teacher Miguel Antonio Chávez