— ABOUT KWELI —

Kweli means “truth” in Swahili. Under the direction of founding editor Laura Pegram since 2009, it has been our mission to nurture emerging BIPOC writers that “sing the truth.” With a quarterly online literary journal, year-long writer fellowships, multi-session workshops, writing retreats, individualized editing, an annual writers' conference and international festival, Kweli invests in the artistic and professional growth of emerging authors, nationally and internationally. We continue to contribute to a world where the narratives being told reflect the truth of our histories and the possibilities for our future.

— 2023 KWELI INTERNATIONAL LITERARY FESTIVAL —

The 2023 Kweli International Literary Festival is a hybrid, multi-week festival for writers of color held July 15th through September 15th! The festival will feature virtual readings and conversations with debut and award-winning BIPOC writers, master classes, multi-session workshops, craft talks, and much more, as well as the year’s best opportunity to connect with agents, editors, and fellow creatives of color. We have an incredible lineup this year, including Hanif Abdurraqib, Ingrid Rojas Contreras, Jodi M. Savage, Kaitlyn Greenidge, and Oscar Hokeah. Watch the video below for highlights from our 2022 festival.

— KWELI IN THE NEWS —

Kweli receives the Platinum Review Award for Excellence in Literary Magazine Publishing

KWELI AWARDED MULTI-YEAR GRANT FROM NYSCA

KWELI RECEIVES LITERARY MAGAZINE FUND GRANT

KWELI WINS WHITING LITERARY MAGAZINE PRIZE