The Wendy Elaine Nelles Memorial Award (the WEN Award)

is a cash prize established by friends of Wendy Nelles (1955–2018) in partnership with The Word Guild—an organization of Canadian writers and editors who are Christian—which Wendy cofounded.

“The WEN Award celebrates the life, career, and faith of a woman who cared passionately about teaching, mentoring, and encouraging writers,” says journalist Thomas Froese, who initiated the award in honour of his friend.

“Each year, we invite eligible young writers to apply who strive to emulate the virtues of leadership, perseverance, commitment to excellence, commitment to Christian faith, and good character,” adds writer and communications consultant Patricia Paddey, another of Nelles’ friends. “Those who knew and loved Wendy saw these virtues amply displayed in her life.”

Awarded to developing writers in Canada, submissions are open to post-secondary students enrolled in Journalism, Literature, Media, and Communications programs. To apply, students must complete a written questionnaire, including a character reference.

The cash prize is $750, to be used for the winner’s writing development.

The application deadline will be June 16th (including the receipt of reference letters.)

Click here to download the application form: (it should show up in your Downloads folder)

Once completed the Application Form and Reference Letters can be uploaded here:

The winner of this year’s Wendy Elaine Nelles Memorial Award will be announced in July during the short list announcement of The Word Awards.

 

More about Wendy Elaine Nelles

A co-founder of The Word Guild, there are countless Canadian Christian writers and editors today who can thank Wendy for having found their voice due to her tireless advocacy on their behalf, and efforts at encouraging excellence and creativity. An award-winning journalist, writer, editor, speaker and writing instructor, Wendy was a passionate supporter of the arts. Her faith in God was the driving force of her life.

This scholarship is intended to continue her legacy of helping young writers.

Click here for more information on Wendy’s role in The Word Guild – Announcement letter