Double Launch: Vanuatu National Literary Awards 2026 Celebrates ‘Routes and Roots’
- Yumi Talem
- Jun 22
- 2 min read
PORT VILA, Vanuatu (1 May 2026) — Today marks a significant milestone for
Vanuatu’s creative landscape with the official launch of the 2026 Vanuatu National
Literary Awards. This year, the established ‘Sot Sot Storian’ Micro-Fiction Competition
enters its third year, joined by the inaugural Poetri Pawa Praes (National Poetry Award).
The 2026 theme, “Routes and Roots / Routes et racines / Ol rod mo ol stampa,” invites
ni-Vanuatu writers to explore the tension and connection between tradition and
modernity. This initiative aims to bridge the urban-rural creative divide and create a
contemporary written archive of ni-Vanuatu perspectives.
The Masters of Micro-Fiction
The ‘Sot Sot Storian’ competition challenges writers to craft complete narratives in just
150 words. This year’s judging panel for micro-fiction brings together experts in literacy,
journalism, and cultural development.
“I seek punchy, well-structured micro-fiction that captures a complete narrative within
the short format,” says judge Junior Gaetan Pikioune, a published author from Espiritu
Santo. “I am particularly eager to see pieces grounded in the Vanuatu context that
deliver a meaningful message.”
Returning for her third year, education specialist Christelle Thieffry highlights the
competition’s unique focus on Vanuatu’s linguistic heritage. The awards welcome
submissions in Bislama, English, French, and any of the country’s 100+ Indigenous
vernacular languages.
“I look for imaginative, well-crafted short narratives that experiment with the languages
of Vanuatu,” Thieffry explains. “This year’s theme invites creativity, authenticity, and
dreamlike storytelling that explores our ‘routes and roots.’”
Joining the panel is distinguished journalist Madlen Netvunei, holder of the 2026 Mildred
Sope Award for Creative Storytelling. She brings a sharp eye for precision and social
relevance to the selection process.
“Coming from a journalism background, I look for stories with a ‘hook’—narratives that
are concise and impactful,” says Netvunei. “I want to find stories grounded in truth that
provide a compelling window into the realities of life in Vanuatu.”
A huge thank you to our private sponsors and partners, such as Melanesian Women
Today, Sista, Alliance Française, and Nabanga Pikinini, for their vital support of the
2026 National Literary Awards. Interested in contributing? Reach out to
creativewritingvanuatu@gmail.com to help us continue celebrating Vanuatu's stories.
Competition Details & Submission Guidelines
Both competitions are open to ni-Vanuatu citizens and residents, with specific
categories for Youth (ages 12-17) and Open (18+) entries.
● Sot Sot Storian (Micro-Fiction): Maximum 150 words.
● Poetri Pawa Praes (Poetry): Maximum 200 words or 40 lines.
● Prizes: Winners in each category receive 15,000 VT, with additional prizes for
runners-up and specific vernacular entries.
● Timeline: Entries open 1 May 2026 and close 30 June 2026. Winners will be
announced on 29 July 2026.
This collaborative effort between the Nabanga Pikinini Association and local creative
collectives aligns with the Vanuatu National Sustainable Development Plan 2016 -
2030, ensuring that Indigenous knowledge and kastom remain dynamic and self-defined
through literature.
By Creative Writing
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