The SCBWI was formed in 1971 by a group of Los Angeles-based writers for children. It is an international organisation that acts as a network for the exchange of knowledge between writers, illustrators, editors, publishers, agents, librarians, educators, booksellers and others involved with literature for young people. There are currently more than 22,000 members worldwide, in over 70 regions, making it the largest children’s writing organisation in the world.
Apart from two annual International Conferences on Writing and Illustrating for Children held in America, there are numerous regional conferences and events throughout the world. SCBWI also publishes a bi-monthly bulletin as well as pamphlets and books on the art and business of creating and publishing written, illustrated, and electronic material.
SCBWI offers grants to members for work-in-progress and attendance at conferences. Excellence in published work is celebrated each year through the Golden Kite Award, the Crystal Kite award, the Sid Fleischman Humor Award and other significant forms of recognition.
South Africa’s own Chapter of the international Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators is run by local children’s book writers and illustrators — all volunteers. It is currently administered by Co-Regional Advisors Elaine Ridge and Marjorie van Heerden. They are ably assisted in Gauteng by Assistant Regional Advisor Jenny Hatton.
SCBWI SA is proud to be one of the nominating bodies for the Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award, the most prestigious award for children’s literature in the world.
For more information or to join the SCBWI, visit the Society’s website: www.SCBWI.org
