Open to Black poets (African, Afro-Caribbean, Afro‑Latinx, African‑American, or mixed‑Black heritage). Emerging and published writers aged 18+ are welcome. 

Founded in 2020 by Nick Makoha, inspired by the Cave Canem model to support Black poets. 

A one-week virtual residency. The 2025 session is scheduled for December 14–19.

Free submission via the Submittable portal. You’ll submit 3 poems (one document), a 300-word statement, and a list of your last five poetry books read before the stated deadline.

Approximately 50–60 poets are selected each year, based solely on the quality of their submitted work.

Each retreat is capped at 10–15 poets per cohort to ensure meaningful interaction and support.

The retreat spans 5½ days. Full attendance throughout is required participants are expected to engage fully in workshops, readings, and mentor sessions.

Fellows are expected to attend three retreats over five years to become full alumni. 

The retreat fee is £350 per person.

A subsidized fee applies, with limited fully funded or bursary-supported places available. Collaborations with organizations like Magma Poetry also offer funded spots and publication support.

Yes you can pay for part or a full scholarship for a attending cohort. All money received during our submission period is ringfenced for retreat.

Led by acclaimed Black mentors Nick Makoha, Koleka Putuma, Raymond Antrobus, Malika Booker, and Dante Micheaux ensuring a rich interdisciplinary experience.

Yes workshops include peer circles, one-on-one mentor sessions, and group critique, all designed to foster connection and creative growth.

No summaries may be available post-event.

Fellows gain access to an ongoing alumni community for mentorship, publication opportunities, and priority for future retreats.

Requires stable internet, Zoom access, and basic writing tools (laptop/tablet or pen and paper).

Fellows join a lasting alumni network with mentorship, publication opportunities, and access to future retreats. Partnership with Magma Poetry enhances visibility. 

Full refund (minus processing fees) for cancellations made up to three weeks in advance. After that, partial refunds or transferable spots may be considered on request.

Yes!   Attend our special masterclass with Roger Robinson as he walks you through preparing your poems for submission.  Also a special Q&A with the Obsidian Team on TBC

Inspired by the Cave Canem model and founded by a Cave Canem alumnus. Offers virtual accessibility, long-term mentorship, and platforms for ongoing publication opportunities. The retreat fosters community, rigorous craft development, and creative solidarity. Past feedback includes: “a resounding success…poetry kept improving every day”.