Antigua and Barbuda Writers Featured on Commonwealth Prize Longlist
Three writers from Antigua and Barbuda have been recognized among emerging literary voices across the Commonwealth after being named to the longlist for the 2026 Commonwealth Short Story Prize.
The Commonwealth Foundation announced the longlist on April 14, highlighting authors whose work stood out in a highly competitive field of 7,806 entries from across its member countries.
Representing Antigua and Barbuda are Ulah Wijnaldum for “A Story of Love and Betrayal,” Jonella B. Solliegne for “Under the Silk Cotton Tree,” and Lester Simon for “Viola Pan.”
Although the longlisted stories will not be published as part of the prize, the Foundation described the selected writers as “voices to watch,” noting that fewer than 200 entries advanced to this stage of the competition.
The Commonwealth Short Story Prize is one of the world’s most prominent international literary awards for unpublished short fiction, drawing entries from Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, Europe, and the Pacific. The longlist serves as an early indicator of rising talent, often bringing regional and global attention to writers at various stages of their careers.
The inclusion of three Antiguan and Barbudan writers underscores the country’s continued presence in regional and international literary circles, reflecting a growing body of creative work emerging from the twin-island state.
Shortlisted finalists are expected to be announced later this year, with overall and regional winners to follow.