The Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI) has announced the winner of their first BAME scholarship sponsored by the Bent Agency.

The scholarship, which includes a year’s membership of SCBWI, has been awarded to Louisa Danquah. She will also attend the annual conference and have her manuscript professionally critiqued. The scheme was announced in July.

Molly Ker Hawn, agent at the Bent Agency said: “We were particularly impressed with Louisa’s commitment to her writing, though; her sample pages showed a good instinct for writing for young people, and her statement was very clear about what she hoped to gain by attending the SCBWI conference.

"She gave us the impression she really makes the most of the opportunities she has, and we think she’ll get a great deal out of meeting other writers on the path to publication.” 

Danquah said: "I look forward to learning from my fellow writers and developing my writing style."

Natascha Biebow and Kathy Evans, co-chairs of the SCBWI British Isles, said: “SCBWI’s international professional network and the development opportunities afforded by the annual conference have made a significant difference to SCBWI members’ careers and we are excited that we will be part of the scholarship winner’s journey to publication.”

• The Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators
• Bent Agency
• Louisa Danquah