Last year, our readers had the privilege of hearing from a collection of new voices—the Young Writers Cohort. If you missed their pieces, you can find them all here. It was a privilege to walk alongside last year’s group as they developed their voices. I am so excited to launch applications for the second installment of this cohort starting this Friday, March 21st! See below for more information on how to apply.
SOLA Network Young Writers Cohort 2025
Purpose:
We want to train the next generation of Asian-American thought leaders and authors in the Church through mentorship and exposure to guided writing opportunities.
If accepted into the cohort, you will contribute to SOLA Network through written articles. These articles will discuss topics such as personal faith, transition into adulthood, use of social media, reflections on current events, and church membership to a group of college students across various locations, age, gender, and ethnic heritage who share the collective identity of “Asian-American Christian.”
We Are Looking For:
Asian-American college-age students (18-22) who are currently members or regular attendees of a local church. You do not have to be presently enrolled in school. We would love to hear from those who are taking “non-traditional” paths as well. As a member of this cohort, you will gain skills in peer editing, writing for a public ministry, thinking critically about the world from a Christian perspective, and devotional writing.
Requirements:
- Able to join quarterly Zoom meetings for training, peer review, and community building.
- Must be willing to contribute writing for the SOLA Network Young Writers Cohort in a timely manner, and be able to communicate your thoughts on matters of faith through writing. You will receive ample guidance and feedback from Soojin and the SOLA Editors, so don’t be afraid of lacking “formal” writing experience.
- Must name a pastor who has a personal relationship with you to provide a written reference. This pastor should be able to speak to your demonstrated desire to grow in leadership and communication, but most importantly your desire to grow and edify the Church.
Feedback from Last year’s cohort:
I learned that writing is a ministry, and should be focused on loving and edifying the reader. This really stuck with me, and I think about it often. I also learned how much peer review and editor review is important! There are things that I don’t consider or notice—and sometimes there are things that I feel off about, but can’t exactly articulate what’s wrong or what needs to change. Also, I’m just grateful to have been encouraged by this group of young writers who are also growing in writing and eager to use their gifts for the kingdom. It’s a blessing to see glimpses of how the Lord is at work in their lives.
– Ashley Kim, YWC Cohort ‘23-‘24
If you are a pastor or leader who interacts with this demographic in your local ministry, please recommend this opportunity to any students you believe would be a good fit. Applications are due on May 31 and the Cohort will be active from Fall 2025 to Summer 2026.