If you are a young female writer aged between 18 and 30 and speak one of the languages of the 43 countries of the Euro-Mediterranean region, then perhaps you will want to participate at the A Sea of Words 2018 contest which was recently launched by the European Institute of the Mediterranean (IEMed).

A Sea of Words is an international literary contest that seeks to bring youth voices and realities to the fore. Led by the IEMed and the Anna Lindh Foundation, the contest has attracted over 5000 participants in its 10 years of history!

In this context, we would like to encourage young female writers from across the EuroMed region to make their voices heard. Literature – as a means of aesthetic and philosophical expression – provides a great opportunity to portray women stories and experiences and ultimately shape social discourse.

This year’s contest seeks to provide a forum for youths to tell us about their own experiences and emotions in relation to cultural heritage. Cultural heritage, whether tangible or intangible, is a fundamental part of our identity; it is a shared value and a sign of identity in villages and towns, natural landscapes and emblematic centuries-old constructions that bring us together in diversity. It is not just a legacy of the past but also helps us to forge the path to follow and design our future. Cultural heritage contributes to creating more united societies and to fostering growth and employment in cities and regions.

The short stories must not exceed 2500 words.

For further information in English, French, Arabic, Spanish or Catalan, check the link below.