Writing Change: Climate Resilience Residency for Young Writers

At Wintergreen we are acutely aware that the next generation of young artists requires the creative space to process and transform feelings of climate related anxiety into the foundations for future action and change. With a focus on hope, wellness, inspiration, connection to nature, and the ritualization of the everyday, this residency aims to support and motivate young writers to recognize the resilience both in themselves and in the world around them . . . by writing change.

Writing Change is open to emerging writers, aged 18-30, interested in a short-term writing residency at Wintergreen Studios, a wilderness retreat centre in South Frontenac Township, ON, under an hour from Kingston.

This short-term residency (4 days, 3 nights) coincides with our seasonal Land Art BioBlitz (LABB) offerings, when educators and experts converge to facilitate a range of land-based learning opportunities for students, community groups, and the general public. It’s during this unique time that we invite young writers to our site to enjoy private writing space as well as joining a remarkable group of climate leaders and changemakers for communal meals, conversation around the campfire, and participation in select workshops and events.

nterested applicants are asked to fill out an application form by March 31, 2025 that includes a proposal for residency focus, writing sample, and CV/resume. Previous publications are not required. Please indicate if you would like to be considered for a scholarship for the residency. Scholarships range from 50% - 100% support.

Short-listed candidates can expect a response from Wintergreen Studios by March 17, 2025. They will then be invited to interview with the Residency Selection Committee and will be expected to provide two references.

Successful applicants will be contacted and attend an online pre-residency orientation meeting with staff and their Writing Mentor. Participants will have access to a writing mentor leading up to and during their residency.