Single Mama's Can Do Writers Residencies Too

Often for parents that pursue artistic careers, there exists a sacrifice tainted with guilt as we usually can only afford to take many opportunities alone.

For any writer, a writers residency is the dream opportunity. International writers residencies, whilst dreamy, for me, a single mum that also cares for a mother journeying through alzheimer's - can feel impossible to undertake. Whilst I refuse to be a victim to my role as a single mum and carer, the reality is to take these kind of opportunities require me to smash down a few extra barriers then others.

At the end of 2016, a dream came true, I received an email from the University of Hawaii, inviting me to be the spring (January - May) 2018 writer in residence. Providing me the space to research and write a new body of work and also to teach two poetry classes for the semester. This opportunity came to be, because I was nominated by a friend/poet/lecturer at the University.

For the last 3 years, as a poet and creative, I have been falling in love with Hawaii. Hawaii opened up her arms to me as a home for respite, clarity for my writing process, lifetime friendships and is also the home to the only publishers that would take my work on. Hawaii is very close to my heart. I have always held an intention of mataoutatou / give and receive - with the poetry community when I spend time there. I have performed, taught, created, directed and shared my skills as a resource and received so much more in return.

There was no way I could turn this opportunity down, even with all the barriers. A dream I have worked hard towards as authentically possible over the last 3 years. Whilst I will be employed by the University, providing me the financial support to take this opportunity - there are a few initial costs that I am required to cover, that as the sole income earner for a 3 person household and mortgage - I admit I am struggling to overcome.

I am very blessed, with opportunities and community - but I need your support for that last push. So that i can take this opportunity at its most fullest ways. Having my son with me for half the time (on and off), USA visa costs for both my son and I, over all living expenses in both Hawaii and at home (mortgage) for the first 3 weeks of the residency before my first wage is paid.

I know it is a tough time of year to gift to others in monetary ways, but friends have encouraged me to reach out so here I am. Any gifting - I am deeply grateful for.

For anyone that donates $200 or more, you can request a commissioned poem written by yours truly. Perhaps this could make for that unique Christmas present for a loved one.

Fa'afetai tele lava, Mahalo & so much alofas

Grace x