Writers of African Origin in the Diaspora
Affiliate of the Pan African Writers Association (PAWA)

WAFORD's 1st
ANNUAL CONFERENCE
(TENTATIVELY) Nov 6-7, 2026
TUSKEGEE
Submit Abstracts to:
📧 info@pawa-waford.org
🗓 Deadline: August 31, 2026
📩 Acceptance notifications: September 15, 2026
The Writers of African Origin in the Diaspora (WAFORD), the official diaspora arm of the Pan African Writers Association (PAWA), invites abstract submissions for its inaugural conference. This groundbreaking gathering aims to reflect on the dynamic and evolving role of African and diaspora writers in shaping global narratives, promoting social cohesion, and driving literary innovation.
We welcome scholarly papers, creative works, and multimedia presentations that engage the theme from diverse disciplines and perspectives. Submissions may be academic, practice-based, or hybrid in nature.
Suggested Presentation Topics (include but are not limited to):
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African literary identity in the diaspora
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Bridging the continent and the diaspora through storytelling
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Decolonizing literature and language
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Faith, folklore, and futuristic narratives
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Publishing challenges and opportunities for African writers
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Literary activism, peacebuilding, and social change
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Diaspora voices in children’s literature
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Oral traditions and their modern revival
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Gender and intersectionality in African narratives
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Literary translation and preserving African languages
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Medical writing and health narratives in the African context
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AI, digital publishing, and tech innovation in African literature
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Interdisciplinary art forms: poetry, visual arts, music, and performance
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Case studies in African-centered publishing models
Submission Guidelines:
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Abstracts should be 250–300 words, clearly outlining the proposed topic, approach, and relevance to the conference theme.
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Include a short bio (max 150 words) with institutional affiliation (if applicable).
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Co-authored or group panel proposals are also welcome.
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All accepted presenters must register for the conference. For membership and registration details, please visit: Membership Tiers
Conference Highlights:
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Keynote addresses by renowned African authors and scholars
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Interactive panels and roundtables (please propose Topics too till August 31st)
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Book launches and cultural showcases
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Professional development workshops
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Networking and mentorship opportunities
Whether you are an academic, creative writer, poet, publisher, cultural advocate, or student, we welcome your voice at this landmark event.
Let’s build the future of African literature—together.

Getting Around
Tuskegee University
Founded by Booker T. Washington in 1881, Tuskegee University is a historically black university (HBCU) known for its role in African American education, science, and civil rights. Tuskegee is a city rich in history and culture, located in Macon County, Alabama. The University campus is a National Historic Site and includes:
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The George Washington Carver Museum
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The Booker T. Washington Monument
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Beautiful historic buildings and serene grounds

Getting Here
Here’s a list of airports near the Tuskegee Center for Bioethics with their approximate driving distances:
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Auburn-Opelika Robert G. Pitts Airport (AUB) – ~25 miles
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Montgomery Regional Airport (MGM) – ~45 miles
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Columbus Metropolitan Airport, GA (CSG) – ~50 miles
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Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) – ~110 miles
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Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport (BHM) – ~135 miles

Things To Do
Here’s a list of top things to do in Tuskegee:
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Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site
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Tuskegee Institute National Historic Site
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George Washington Carver Museum
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The Oaks (Home of Booker T. Washington)
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Tuskegee Human & Civil Rights Multicultural Center (Tuskegee History Center)
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Tuskegee National Forest
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Macon County Courthouse
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Butler Chapel AME Zion Church
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Moton Field and Abbott Park
