As readers of Brittle Paper well know, Wana Udobang wears many creative hats. She is a poet, writer, journalist, filmmaker, performer and most recently, one of the 30 international writers selected to participate in the 54th International Writing Program (IWP) at the University of Iowa.

The University of Iowa is home to world famous writing programs such as the Iowa Writer’s Workshop and the International Writing Program (IWP).

According to their website, the IWP Residency “provides writers with time, in a setting congenial to their efforts, for the production of literary work. It also introduces them to the social and cultural fabrics of the United States, enables them to take part in American university life, and creates opportunities for them to contribute to literature courses both at the University of Iowa and across the country.”

Due to the coronarivus pandemic, this year’s 30 selected writers will begin their residency in Spring 2021.

In winning this residency, Udobang follows in the hallowed footsteps of Nigerian literary greats like Amos Tutuola, Elechi Amadi, Cyprian Ekwensi, Niyi Osundare, and non-Nigerian writers such as Bessie Head, Orhan Pamuk, and John Banville.

Udobang shared the happy news on Twitter:

https://twitter.com/MissWanaWana/status/1285470519672872961

As a media personality and a poet, Udobang’s accomplishment drew the attention of the literary community and the Nigerian media. Her selection to the writing program was covered everywhere from Bellanaija to Premium Times and drew a chorus of congratulations from fellow writers.

We are delighted to join the chorus of well wishers. Congratulations to Wana Udobang!