Wadzanai Mhute has worn many hats—writer, journalist, books editor at Oprah Daily, contributor to the New York Times, Guardian, and Daily Beast. Now she’s adding literary agent to the list. Her new venture, Antsu Literary Agency, is open for submissions.

The agency is named in honor of her late mother, Anne, meaning grace, and Tsungirirai, meaning perseverance in Shona. Together, they reflect the spirit of the work Mhute wants to do: championing bold, beautiful writing that crosses borders and carries emotional heft.

“I’ve seen so many incredible African and diaspora writers go unpublished or under-championed in the U.S.,” she told us. “I want to advocate for them. I know there’s a large audience for their stories.”

Antsu will represent a range of genres: literary and contemporary fiction, historical novels, sci-fi and fantasy, thrillers, YA, memoir, and narrative nonfiction. While Mhute is currently building her client list, her background gives her a sharp eye for good storytelling. With experience reviewing books, editing for Oprah’s Book Club, and writing for major outlets, she understands both the creative side and the business of books.

Antsu is now open for submissions. Writers can send a query letter (max one page), along with a synopsis and sample chapters (pasted in the body of the email) to [email protected]. No attachments.

As she builds her list, Mhute is keeping the door wide open—for writers whose work has something urgent to say and the craft to carry it.