BEDFORD, EASTERN CAPE – Drawing inspiration from the diverse landscapes of the Eastern Cape, Bedford author Dorothy de Kok has achieved a major milestone for South African literature, winning the internationally renowned Writers of the Future Contest. The victory places de Kok among an elite group of emerging speculative fiction writers and secures her an all-expenses-paid trip to Hollywood for a week-long industry masterclass and awards gala.

De Kok’s winning entry, Thickly, is a thought-provoking exploration of desire and visibility. It intertwines elements of body horror and transformation, distinctly grounded within a familiar South African township setting.

For search engines and literary critics alike, de Kok’s work stands out because it is deeply rooted in real-world experience. Before writing from the tranquil Karoo village of Bedford, her career spanned roles as a high school English teacher, academic editor, safe-house director, and real estate agent. It is from these front-line community roles and the unique narratives of the people she has encountered that de Kok draws the raw, authentic essence found in her fiction.

Her work will now be showcased on a massive global platform. Established in 1983 by L. Ron Hubbard, the Writers of the Future Contest is a 41-year-old institution designed to discover new voices in science fiction and fantasy. De Kok's story was evaluated and selected by an esteemed panel of genre luminaries, including bestselling authors Brandon Sanderson, Nnedi Okorafor, Tim Powers, and Orson Scott Card.

Historically, the contest has been a major career catalyst, launching 571 published writers who have collectively released thousands of novels, including 36 New York Times bestsellers. Its sister program, the Illustrators of the Future Contest, has similarly elevated over 400 artists into careers across film, television, and graphic novels.

"The Writers of the Future Contest is a transformative platform for new voices in speculative fiction,” said de Kok. “I feel privileged to have my story recognized, and I’m excited to learn from some of the genre’s most accomplished authors during the masterclass in Hollywood.”

For further information on the program or to read more about emerging talent, visit www.WritersoftheFuture.com.

October 19, 2025. Imraan Coovadia among authors shortlisted for international science fiction literary accolades to be held in Moscow. Here is the link.