Brazil:
1) Ana Maria Gonçalves
Ana Maria Gonçalves (born 1970, Ibia, Minas Gerais) is a Brazilian writer and former professor of English who has dedicated herself to literature since 2002. She is best known for her novel “Um defeito de cor” (“A Colour Defect”, 2006), which won the Casa de las Américas Prize and was named one of the best Brazilian works of the decade by O Globo; her short stories have also been published in anthologies in Portugal and Italy. Gonçalves was awarded the Order of Rio Branco for her contributions to the anti-racist movement, and is also known as a playwright and social commentator. On July 10, 2025, she became the first Black woman member of the Brazilian Academy of Literature.
2) Patrícia Melo
Patrícia Melo (born October 2, 1962, Assis, São Paulo) is a Brazilian writer, playwright, and screenwriter, renowned for her socially conscious novels and television work. Starting her career in the script department at Rede Globo, she gained fame as the author of crime and psychological novels such as “Acqua Toffana” and “O Matador”, the latter winning the German Crime Fiction Award. Her main creative themes include violence, impunity, and the devaluation of human life; in recent years, Melo has actively addressed femicide and crimes against women in her novels and educational videos. Her works have been translated into many languages and have received prestigious literary awards in Brazil and Europe.
3) Ricardo Aleixo
Ricardo Aleixo (born 1960, Belo Horizonte) is a Brazilian poet, literature and media researcher, and one of Brazil’s most innovative contemporary writers. He is known for his visual and socially engaged poetry, blending elements of concretism, ethnopoetry, and diverse art forms by integrating poetry with theater, music, and dance. His works explore themes of identity, protest, and the Black experience. He is the author of books such as “Festim”, “Modelos Vivos”, “Mundo palavreado”, and “Pesado demaispara a ventania”, a participant in numerous exhibitions, and editor of the journal Roda. He is a recipient of the Literatura para Todos Prize and holds a doctorate from the Federal University of Minas Gerais.
Russia:
1) Alexey Varlamov
Alexey Varlamov (born June 23, 1963, Moscow) is a Russian writer, publicist, Doctor of Philology, and professor. Since 2016, he has served as rector of the Maxim Gorky Literary Institute. A member of the Union of Russian Writers since 1993, he is the author of novellas and novels such as “The House in Ostozhye”, “Loch”, “Birth”, “September 11”, as well as biographies for the “Lives of Remarkable People” series. Varlamov is a laureate of the Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn Prize, the Big Book Award, the International “Writer of the 21st Century” Prize, and was granted the honorary title of Honored Artist of the Russian Federation (2024). He is also active as a researcher, teacher, and editor. His prose develops the traditions of Russian psychological literature, recreating—through diverse material—the stories of “little people” facing existential choices, thereby returning the humanistic theme to the center of contemporary culture.
2) Andrey Gelasimov
Andrey Gelasimov (born October 7, 1966, Irkutsk) is a renowned Russian writer and educator, author of novels, novellas, and short stories, many of which have been adapted for film. He graduated from Yakutsk State University and the directing faculty of GITIS, holds a Candidate of Philology degree, and trained in the UK. Gelasimov is a laureate of the National Bestseller Prize for the novel “Steppe Gods”, the Moscow Art Prize for “Chisty Kaif”, and was awarded the title of Honored Artist of the Russian Federation (2023). His best-known books include “Thirst”, “The Year of Deception”, “House on Lake Street”, “The White Wolf’s Ring”, “Cold”, and “Pure High”, recognized both in Russia and abroad. Gelasimov masterfully works with action-packed genre prose, blending melodrama and military themes, unveiling timeless human passions and tragic circumstances through classically structured plots, giving them contemporary resonance.
3) Dmitry Danilov
Dmitry Danilov (born January 31, 1969, Moscow) is a contemporary Russian writer, playwright, and poet, known for his novels, plays, poems, essays, and his work with the literary groups “The Insanely Mad” and “Cyber-Nativists”. Winner of the Nonconformism Prize, the Andrei Bely Prize, the Yasnaya Polyana Award, the Moscow Art Prize, and finalist for the “Main Book” award, Danilov is the author of landmark works such as “Horizontal Position”, “Description of a City”, “Some Things Are More Important than Football”, “Hi, Sasha! ”, as well as the plays “A Man from Podolsk” and “Seryozha is Very Stupid”, and poetry collections. His writing is distinguished by its original style, combining lyrical absurdity with social sharpness, revealing the contradictions of modern life, while preserving his characters’ dignity and inner strength in the face of absurd circumstances.
1) Alexey Varlamov
Alexey Varlamov (born June 23, 1963, Moscow) is a Russian writer, publicist, Doctor of Philology, and professor. Since 2016, he has served as rector of the Maxim Gorky Literary Institute. A member of the Union of Russian Writers since 1993, he is the author of novellas and novels such as “The House in Ostozhye”, “Loch”, “Birth”, “September 11”, as well as biographies for the “Lives of Remarkable People” series. Varlamov is a laureate of the Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn Prize, the Big Book Award, the International “Writer of the 21st Century” Prize, and was granted the honorary title of Honored Artist of the Russian Federation (2024). He is also active as a researcher, teacher, and editor. His prose develops the traditions of Russian psychological literature, recreating—through diverse material—the stories of “little people” facing existential choices, thereby returning the humanistic theme to the center of contemporary culture.
2) Andrey Gelasimov
Andrey Gelasimov (born October 7, 1966, Irkutsk) is a renowned Russian writer and educator, author of novels, novellas, and short stories, many of which have been adapted for film. He graduated from Yakutsk State University and the directing faculty of GITIS, holds a Candidate of Philology degree, and trained in the UK. Gelasimov is a laureate of the National Bestseller Prize for the novel “Steppe Gods”, the Moscow Art Prize for “Chisty Kaif”, and was awarded the title of Honored Artist of the Russian Federation (2023). His best-known books include “Thirst”, “The Year of Deception”, “House on Lake Street”, “The White Wolf’s Ring”, “Cold”, and “Pure High”, recognized both in Russia and abroad. Gelasimov masterfully works with action-packed genre prose, blending melodrama and military themes, unveiling timeless human passions and tragic circumstances through classically structured plots, giving them contemporary resonance.
3) Dmitry Danilov
Dmitry Danilov (born January 31, 1969, Moscow) is a contemporary Russian writer, playwright, and poet, known for his novels, plays, poems, essays, and his work with the literary groups “The Insanely Mad” and “Cyber-Nativists”. Winner of the Nonconformism Prize, the Andrei Bely Prize, the Yasnaya Polyana Award, the Moscow Art Prize, and finalist for the “Main Book” award, Danilov is the author of landmark works such as “Horizontal Position”, “Description of a City”, “Some Things Are More Important than Football”, “Hi, Sasha! ”, as well as the plays “A Man from Podolsk” and “Seryozha is Very Stupid”, and poetry collections. His writing is distinguished by its original style, combining lyrical absurdity with social sharpness, revealing the contradictions of modern life, while preserving his characters’ dignity and inner strength in the face of absurd circumstances.
India:
1) Jay Vasavada
Jay Vasavada (born 1973, Bhavnagar, Gujarat) is a prominent Indian writer, speaker, and cultural commentator who writes in Gujarati. Since 1996, he has published popular columns in leading publications and to date has authored over 20 bestsellers, including Jay Ho!, JSK: Jai Shree Krushna, Yuva Hawa, Lifeline, Mummy Pappa, Preet Kiye Sukh Hoy, Ye Dosti, Prem Rang, and Superhero Sardar. His work covers themes of science, culture, love, history, youth, family, and human relationships. Vasavada is known for his openness, advocacy of freedom of speech, and modern interpretations of cultural and philosophical issues. He also hosts radio shows, talk shows, writes scripts for television, and is recognized for his public speaking. His books are distinguished by their personal style, positivity, sincerity, and attention to pressing social issues.
2) Dr. Rajan Kumar
Dr. Rajan Kumar is an Indian writer, expert in international relations and global politics, and Associate Professor at the School of International Studies, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi. He is the author and co-author of several books, including “Locating BRICS in the Global Order: Perspectives from the Global South” (an analysis of the role of BRICS in world politics) and “Re-emerging Russia: Structure, Institutions and Processes” (Palgrave Macmillan, London). He regularly writes articles for major media, appears as an expert on Indian and international television, and has taught at universities in Russia and the United States. He actively participates in academic and public organizations, working on foreign policy, reforms of global governance, and sustainable development.
3) Sonu Saini
Sonu Saini (born April 18, 1984, Delhi, India) is a well-known Indian philologist-slavist, translator, teacher, writer, and poet; an honorary member of the Union of Writers of Russia, Doctor of Philology, and author of more than 15 books and 40 scientific articles. A gold medalist graduate of Delhi University, Saini holds three master’s degrees and a PhD in contemporary Russian literature. Since 2012, he has been a senior lecturer at Jawaharlal Nehru University in New Delhi and is recognized as an expert in innovative methods of teaching Russian using modern technology. He has translated works by major Russian and Indian authors, has worked for over 15 years as a top-level simultaneous interpreter—including for the leadership of India and Russia—and has received numerous awards in both countries.
1) Jay Vasavada
Jay Vasavada (born 1973, Bhavnagar, Gujarat) is a prominent Indian writer, speaker, and cultural commentator who writes in Gujarati. Since 1996, he has published popular columns in leading publications and to date has authored over 20 bestsellers, including Jay Ho!, JSK: Jai Shree Krushna, Yuva Hawa, Lifeline, Mummy Pappa, Preet Kiye Sukh Hoy, Ye Dosti, Prem Rang, and Superhero Sardar. His work covers themes of science, culture, love, history, youth, family, and human relationships. Vasavada is known for his openness, advocacy of freedom of speech, and modern interpretations of cultural and philosophical issues. He also hosts radio shows, talk shows, writes scripts for television, and is recognized for his public speaking. His books are distinguished by their personal style, positivity, sincerity, and attention to pressing social issues.
2) Dr. Rajan Kumar
Dr. Rajan Kumar is an Indian writer, expert in international relations and global politics, and Associate Professor at the School of International Studies, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi. He is the author and co-author of several books, including “Locating BRICS in the Global Order: Perspectives from the Global South” (an analysis of the role of BRICS in world politics) and “Re-emerging Russia: Structure, Institutions and Processes” (Palgrave Macmillan, London). He regularly writes articles for major media, appears as an expert on Indian and international television, and has taught at universities in Russia and the United States. He actively participates in academic and public organizations, working on foreign policy, reforms of global governance, and sustainable development.
3) Sonu Saini
Sonu Saini (born April 18, 1984, Delhi, India) is a well-known Indian philologist-slavist, translator, teacher, writer, and poet; an honorary member of the Union of Writers of Russia, Doctor of Philology, and author of more than 15 books and 40 scientific articles. A gold medalist graduate of Delhi University, Saini holds three master’s degrees and a PhD in contemporary Russian literature. Since 2012, he has been a senior lecturer at Jawaharlal Nehru University in New Delhi and is recognized as an expert in innovative methods of teaching Russian using modern technology. He has translated works by major Russian and Indian authors, has worked for over 15 years as a top-level simultaneous interpreter—including for the leadership of India and Russia—and has received numerous awards in both countries.
China:
1) Ma Boyong (马伯庸)
Ma Boyong (born November 14, 1980, Chifeng, Inner Mongolia) is one of the most renowned contemporary Chinese writers, as well as a commentator and blogger. He is known for his works in the genres of historical fiction, fantasy, and detective stories, all marked by a distinctive sense of humor. His most prominent books include the thriller The Longest Day in Chang’an (adapted for television), the spy novel The Wind Pavilion, the original historical-fantasy work The Three-Body Problem in Western Han, the satirical The Court Jester (Zhang-tao), and the nonfiction literary investigation The Great Ming Under the Microscope. He is a laureate of the prestigious People’s Literature Prize (2010), winner of the British Fantasy Award (2022), recipient of the “LiveLib Readers’ Choice” (2023), and was nominated for the Yasnaya Polyana Literary Award (2024). Ma Boyong is a member of the Chinese Writers Association. He actively publishes and appears on Chinese online platforms, where he comments on history, culture, and society.
2) A Yi (阿乙)
A Yi (real name Ai Guozhu, born 1976, Ruichang, Jiangxi Province) is a contemporary Chinese writer known for his dark minimalist prose with deep psychological insight, focusing on themes such as violence, alienation, and existential absurdity. Before starting his literary career, he worked as a policeman, journalist, and editor; he began writing fiction at the age of 32. His major works include the short story collections Grim Tales and Five Billion Words, as well as the novels The Bird and A Perfect Crime (the latter often compared to Dostoevsky for its exploration of the criminal’s psyche and sense of hopelessness). A Yi’s writing is characterized by a restrained style reminiscent of Kafka or Carver, a sharp social perspective, and critique of the individual’s role within the system. His works have received prestigious literary awards, and he is recognized as one of the 20 most significant contemporary Chinese authors; his writing has been translated into English and published in outlets such as Granta and The Guardian.
1) Ma Boyong (马伯庸)
Ma Boyong (born November 14, 1980, Chifeng, Inner Mongolia) is one of the most renowned contemporary Chinese writers, as well as a commentator and blogger. He is known for his works in the genres of historical fiction, fantasy, and detective stories, all marked by a distinctive sense of humor. His most prominent books include the thriller The Longest Day in Chang’an (adapted for television), the spy novel The Wind Pavilion, the original historical-fantasy work The Three-Body Problem in Western Han, the satirical The Court Jester (Zhang-tao), and the nonfiction literary investigation The Great Ming Under the Microscope. He is a laureate of the prestigious People’s Literature Prize (2010), winner of the British Fantasy Award (2022), recipient of the “LiveLib Readers’ Choice” (2023), and was nominated for the Yasnaya Polyana Literary Award (2024). Ma Boyong is a member of the Chinese Writers Association. He actively publishes and appears on Chinese online platforms, where he comments on history, culture, and society.
2) A Yi (阿乙)
A Yi (real name Ai Guozhu, born 1976, Ruichang, Jiangxi Province) is a contemporary Chinese writer known for his dark minimalist prose with deep psychological insight, focusing on themes such as violence, alienation, and existential absurdity. Before starting his literary career, he worked as a policeman, journalist, and editor; he began writing fiction at the age of 32. His major works include the short story collections Grim Tales and Five Billion Words, as well as the novels The Bird and A Perfect Crime (the latter often compared to Dostoevsky for its exploration of the criminal’s psyche and sense of hopelessness). A Yi’s writing is characterized by a restrained style reminiscent of Kafka or Carver, a sharp social perspective, and critique of the individual’s role within the system. His works have received prestigious literary awards, and he is recognized as one of the 20 most significant contemporary Chinese authors; his writing has been translated into English and published in outlets such as Granta and The Guardian.
South Africa:
1) Nthabiseng JahRose Jafta
Nthabiseng JahRose Jafta is a South African writer, poet, and cultural figure with a master’s degree in creative writing from Rhodes University. A recipient of the PanSALB Award for her contribution to multilingualism and cultural diversity, she founded the virtual Poetic Blues festival, whose anthologies have been published separately. Jafta works actively at the international level: she has participated in projects at the International Writing Center in Beijing, her poetry has been translated into Mandarin and published in China, and her book “Free State of Mind” has been adapted into braille and filmed. As the founder of the publishing house Sun Peo, she has published over 30 works (children’s books, anthologies, audiobooks, magazines), and she serves as Vice President of the National Writers Association of South Africa and is a member of the World Organization of Writers.
2) Bongeka Mhlongo
Bongeka Mhlongo is a South African writer, founder of the Pen The Vision organization, and a change and communications management specialist. Her book “Thinking in Full Colour” consists of 77 essays designed to encourage readers to reflect aloud and in writing on essential human experiences and current conversations taking place in society today. The book is divided into three sections: issues of national development, the corporate environment, and everyday life. Bongeka is actively involved in the development of African literature, inspiring people to discuss vital topics and find meaning in their work and daily life through conscious thought and a vivid perception of the world.
3) Zaynab Khan
Zaynab Khan is a writer, educator, and poet from South Africa, known for her active advocacy for Palestine. She is the author of several children’s books, including “Yusuf's Choice” and “A Letter from Gaza to the World”, where, through the stories of young protagonists, she introduces children to important themes such as compassion, unity, the challenges of war, and exile. Her work is marked by a sensitive approach to complex issues, fostering empathy and respect between cultures. Zaynab is also involved in educational and public initiatives, regularly publishes in South African media, and participates in the National Writers Association of South Africa (NWASA). Through her writing and activism, she contributes to amplifying Palestinian voices and creating a more just and compassionate society.
1) Nthabiseng JahRose Jafta
Nthabiseng JahRose Jafta is a South African writer, poet, and cultural figure with a master’s degree in creative writing from Rhodes University. A recipient of the PanSALB Award for her contribution to multilingualism and cultural diversity, she founded the virtual Poetic Blues festival, whose anthologies have been published separately. Jafta works actively at the international level: she has participated in projects at the International Writing Center in Beijing, her poetry has been translated into Mandarin and published in China, and her book “Free State of Mind” has been adapted into braille and filmed. As the founder of the publishing house Sun Peo, she has published over 30 works (children’s books, anthologies, audiobooks, magazines), and she serves as Vice President of the National Writers Association of South Africa and is a member of the World Organization of Writers.
2) Bongeka Mhlongo
Bongeka Mhlongo is a South African writer, founder of the Pen The Vision organization, and a change and communications management specialist. Her book “Thinking in Full Colour” consists of 77 essays designed to encourage readers to reflect aloud and in writing on essential human experiences and current conversations taking place in society today. The book is divided into three sections: issues of national development, the corporate environment, and everyday life. Bongeka is actively involved in the development of African literature, inspiring people to discuss vital topics and find meaning in their work and daily life through conscious thought and a vivid perception of the world.
3) Zaynab Khan
Zaynab Khan is a writer, educator, and poet from South Africa, known for her active advocacy for Palestine. She is the author of several children’s books, including “Yusuf's Choice” and “A Letter from Gaza to the World”, where, through the stories of young protagonists, she introduces children to important themes such as compassion, unity, the challenges of war, and exile. Her work is marked by a sensitive approach to complex issues, fostering empathy and respect between cultures. Zaynab is also involved in educational and public initiatives, regularly publishes in South African media, and participates in the National Writers Association of South Africa (NWASA). Through her writing and activism, she contributes to amplifying Palestinian voices and creating a more just and compassionate society.
UAE:
1) Dr. Ali bin Tamim
Dr. Ali bin Tamim is a leading Emirati scholar, intellectual, and cultural figure, serving as chairman of the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre (ALC) under the Department of Culture and Tourism. He is the Secretary General of the prestigious Sheikh Zayed Book Award and the Editor-in-Chief of Al-Markaz, the first peer-reviewed Arabic-language journal published by Brill. Dr. Ali holds a PhD in literary criticism (Yarmouk University, Jordan, 2005) and has extensive experience heading cultural projects in the UAE, including the “Kalima” translation project, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Cultural Center, serving on the juries of national literary awards, and advancing cultural cooperation between Russia and the Arab world. As an active promoter of the Arabic language, he has made significant contributions to the preservation and promotion of the linguistic and cultural heritage of the region, as well as the development of educational and media initiatives.
2) Maisoon Saqer
Maisoon Saqer is an Emirati poet, writer, and artist who has made a significant contribution to the cultural life of the UAE and the Arab world. Born in 1958 in Sharjah, she graduated from Cairo University with a degree in Economics and Political Science. From 1980 to 1995, she headed the Cultural Department at the UAE Ministry of Information and Culture. In 1983, she published her first poetry collection, “This Is How I Name Things”, followed in 2003 by her debut novel, “Raihana”. Her creative work brings together poetry, prose, and visual art, often exploring themes of identity and memory. Saqer’s works have been exhibited in the UAE, Egypt, Jordan, Bahrain, and other countries, and her experimental film received the jury award at Emirates Films. In 2022, Maisoon Saqer won the Sheikh Zayed Book Award in the “Literature” category for her book “Maq’ha Reesh, Ain Ala Massr(A Look at Egypt: Café Riche)”.
3) Reem Al Kamali
Reem Al Kamali is an Emirati writer, journalist, and cultural researcher, born in Dubai in 1979. She was educated in social sciences and history and has been actively working in Emirati media since 1996 as a columnist, editor, and cultural columnist, and since 2008 as the editor of cultural content for Al-Bayan newspaper. She is a member of the Emirates Writers Union and Journalists’ Associations and a recipient of prestigious literary awards: her book “Sultanate of Hormuz” (2013) received the Al Owais Prize, her novel “Dalma’s Statue” (2018) was awarded the Sharjah Prize, and “Rose’s Diary” (2021) was nominated for the International Prize for Arabic Fiction and translated into English. Reem Al Kamali pays special attention to issues of heritage, ancient languages, mythology, and the role of women in the history of the Arabian Peninsula.
1) Dr. Ali bin Tamim
Dr. Ali bin Tamim is a leading Emirati scholar, intellectual, and cultural figure, serving as chairman of the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre (ALC) under the Department of Culture and Tourism. He is the Secretary General of the prestigious Sheikh Zayed Book Award and the Editor-in-Chief of Al-Markaz, the first peer-reviewed Arabic-language journal published by Brill. Dr. Ali holds a PhD in literary criticism (Yarmouk University, Jordan, 2005) and has extensive experience heading cultural projects in the UAE, including the “Kalima” translation project, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Cultural Center, serving on the juries of national literary awards, and advancing cultural cooperation between Russia and the Arab world. As an active promoter of the Arabic language, he has made significant contributions to the preservation and promotion of the linguistic and cultural heritage of the region, as well as the development of educational and media initiatives.
2) Maisoon Saqer
Maisoon Saqer is an Emirati poet, writer, and artist who has made a significant contribution to the cultural life of the UAE and the Arab world. Born in 1958 in Sharjah, she graduated from Cairo University with a degree in Economics and Political Science. From 1980 to 1995, she headed the Cultural Department at the UAE Ministry of Information and Culture. In 1983, she published her first poetry collection, “This Is How I Name Things”, followed in 2003 by her debut novel, “Raihana”. Her creative work brings together poetry, prose, and visual art, often exploring themes of identity and memory. Saqer’s works have been exhibited in the UAE, Egypt, Jordan, Bahrain, and other countries, and her experimental film received the jury award at Emirates Films. In 2022, Maisoon Saqer won the Sheikh Zayed Book Award in the “Literature” category for her book “Maq’ha Reesh, Ain Ala Massr(A Look at Egypt: Café Riche)”.
3) Reem Al Kamali
Reem Al Kamali is an Emirati writer, journalist, and cultural researcher, born in Dubai in 1979. She was educated in social sciences and history and has been actively working in Emirati media since 1996 as a columnist, editor, and cultural columnist, and since 2008 as the editor of cultural content for Al-Bayan newspaper. She is a member of the Emirates Writers Union and Journalists’ Associations and a recipient of prestigious literary awards: her book “Sultanate of Hormuz” (2013) received the Al Owais Prize, her novel “Dalma’s Statue” (2018) was awarded the Sharjah Prize, and “Rose’s Diary” (2021) was nominated for the International Prize for Arabic Fiction and translated into English. Reem Al Kamali pays special attention to issues of heritage, ancient languages, mythology, and the role of women in the history of the Arabian Peninsula.
Ethiopia:
1) Abere Adamu
Abere Adamu is an Ethiopian writer, politician, and public figure, serving as President of the Ethiopian Authors' Association and as a member of the House of People's Representatives of Ethiopia. He actively participates in public debates on issues of diplomacy, the diaspora, and foreign policy, and writes on topics of history, spirituality, and social justice. He is the author of at least six books and a co-author of several works, including “Love in the Underworld”, “Praise of Death”, “Find My Country”, and “The Monk-Bandit” (an award-winning work), as well as plays, film scripts, and poetry collections. His works are known for their deep philosophical and patriotic meaning, blending national history, spiritual traditions, and reflections on contemporary times.
1) Abere Adamu
Abere Adamu is an Ethiopian writer, politician, and public figure, serving as President of the Ethiopian Authors' Association and as a member of the House of People's Representatives of Ethiopia. He actively participates in public debates on issues of diplomacy, the diaspora, and foreign policy, and writes on topics of history, spirituality, and social justice. He is the author of at least six books and a co-author of several works, including “Love in the Underworld”, “Praise of Death”, “Find My Country”, and “The Monk-Bandit” (an award-winning work), as well as plays, film scripts, and poetry collections. His works are known for their deep philosophical and patriotic meaning, blending national history, spiritual traditions, and reflections on contemporary times.
Iran:
1) Mansour Alimoradi
Mansour Alimoradi is an Iranian writer and poet, born in 1976 in Kerman. From a young age, he distinguished himself in literature, gaining recognition at regional poetry and prose festivals. At the age of 22, he began working for the magazine Roodbarzamin, where he wrote satirical pieces, reports, and engaged in literary criticism and the study of folk culture. He is the initiator of a major project—an eighteen-volume encyclopedia of the folk culture and literature of Southeastern Iran (seven volumes published to date). Alimoradi is the author of nine books, including novels for adults and young people, many of which have received prestigious Iranian awards such as Haft Eqlim, Fakherh-ye Saba, and Bastani Parizi. In 2021, his novel "Mid-Day Incantations" was recognized as the best literary work of the year at the 38th Iranian Literary Award.
2) Majid Kaysari
Majid Kaysari is an Iranian writer, born in 1966 in Tehran, a veteran of the Iran-Iraq War, and later earned his bachelor's degree in psychology from Allameh Tabataba’i University. He has been writing prose since 1993. His greatest acclaim came with the novel "Three Priests" (2018), which tells the story of a day from the childhood of the Prophet Muhammad—focusing on priests’ attempt to abduct the future Prophet and the desperate efforts of his foster parents. Kaysari is the recipient of the international Eurasia Prize for this novel, as well as the "Book of the Year" award in Iran (2025) for his novel "The Stone of Destiny".
3) Reza Amirkhani
Reza Amirkhani is a contemporary Iranian writer, novelist, and publicist, born on May 16, 1973, in Tehran. From 2003 to 2007, he headed the Iranian PEN Center, and his works have been translated into Turkish and English. Among his most notable books are the bestseller "Her I" (1999), as well as the novels "Without Homeland" (2010), "Heydar" (2011), and numerous short stories and essays regularly published in literary almanacs. Amirkhani is also known for his safarnameh—literary travel notes inspired by his journeys throughout Iran and abroad, including Russia. He is a recipient of the "Twenty Years of Sacred Defense Stories" award (2000) for the novel "Army", the Jalal Al-e Ahmad Prize (2018), and was nominated for the “Islamic Revolution Artist of the Year” award for the novel "Salvation".
1) Mansour Alimoradi
Mansour Alimoradi is an Iranian writer and poet, born in 1976 in Kerman. From a young age, he distinguished himself in literature, gaining recognition at regional poetry and prose festivals. At the age of 22, he began working for the magazine Roodbarzamin, where he wrote satirical pieces, reports, and engaged in literary criticism and the study of folk culture. He is the initiator of a major project—an eighteen-volume encyclopedia of the folk culture and literature of Southeastern Iran (seven volumes published to date). Alimoradi is the author of nine books, including novels for adults and young people, many of which have received prestigious Iranian awards such as Haft Eqlim, Fakherh-ye Saba, and Bastani Parizi. In 2021, his novel "Mid-Day Incantations" was recognized as the best literary work of the year at the 38th Iranian Literary Award.
2) Majid Kaysari
Majid Kaysari is an Iranian writer, born in 1966 in Tehran, a veteran of the Iran-Iraq War, and later earned his bachelor's degree in psychology from Allameh Tabataba’i University. He has been writing prose since 1993. His greatest acclaim came with the novel "Three Priests" (2018), which tells the story of a day from the childhood of the Prophet Muhammad—focusing on priests’ attempt to abduct the future Prophet and the desperate efforts of his foster parents. Kaysari is the recipient of the international Eurasia Prize for this novel, as well as the "Book of the Year" award in Iran (2025) for his novel "The Stone of Destiny".
3) Reza Amirkhani
Reza Amirkhani is a contemporary Iranian writer, novelist, and publicist, born on May 16, 1973, in Tehran. From 2003 to 2007, he headed the Iranian PEN Center, and his works have been translated into Turkish and English. Among his most notable books are the bestseller "Her I" (1999), as well as the novels "Without Homeland" (2010), "Heydar" (2011), and numerous short stories and essays regularly published in literary almanacs. Amirkhani is also known for his safarnameh—literary travel notes inspired by his journeys throughout Iran and abroad, including Russia. He is a recipient of the "Twenty Years of Sacred Defense Stories" award (2000) for the novel "Army", the Jalal Al-e Ahmad Prize (2018), and was nominated for the “Islamic Revolution Artist of the Year” award for the novel "Salvation".
Indonesia:
1) Ikasaka Banu
Ikasaka Banu is an Indonesian writer, comic book and prose author, born on October 7, 1964, in Yogyakarta. He graduated from the Faculty of Graphic Design at the Bandung Institute of Technology, worked in advertising, and since 2006 has been engaged in independent literary and design activities. His stories and comics have been published since childhood, and he gained recognition for his collections “All for the Indies”, “Aksara Amananunna”, and “Teh dan Pengkhianat”, which ironically and humorously explore themes of colonialism, history, and everyday life. He is a laureate of the prestigious Indonesian Khatulistiwa Literary Award (2014) and the author of the novels “Sesuatu yang Salah”, “Rasinah”, “Pangeran dari Timur”, and “Sang Raja”. Banu’s work is distinguished by its vivid narrative style, focus on historical and social issues, and an original perspective on Indonesia’s colonial past.
2) Intan Paramaditu
Intan Paramadita is an Indonesian writer, scholar, and feminist, born on November 15, 1979, in Bandung. She completed her undergraduate studies at the University of Indonesia, her master’s at the University of California, and earned a PhD from New York University. She is known for her gothic style and works at the intersection of feminism, sexuality, and cultural horror. She is the author of the story collections “Apple and Knife” and “Woman’s Witchcraft” (the latter won the KhatulistiwaLiterary Award), as well as the novel “The Wandering”, which won the Tempo Award and was nominated for several international prizes. Paramadita actively publishes in academic journals on feminism, migration, media, and postcolonial studies, and is a co-founder of the School of Women’s Thought (Sekolah Pemikiran Perempuan).
3) Denny JA
Denny JA (real name Denny Ja’far Ali) is an Indonesian writer, political consultant, entrepreneur, and researcher, born on January 4, 1963. He became widely known as the creator of the essay-poetry genre, which gained popularity after the publication of his book “In the Name of Love” and inspired the release of around 150 poetry books in Indonesia and Southeast Asia. Denny JA was listed among the 30 most influential people on the Internet by Time (2015), is a recipient of the ASEAN Humanitarian and Diplomacy Literature Award (2020) and the Lifetime Achievement Award from Indonesia’s Satupena Writers Guild (2021). In 2021, his candidacy was put forward for the Nobel Prize in Literature by the Essay-Poetry Community.
1) Ikasaka Banu
Ikasaka Banu is an Indonesian writer, comic book and prose author, born on October 7, 1964, in Yogyakarta. He graduated from the Faculty of Graphic Design at the Bandung Institute of Technology, worked in advertising, and since 2006 has been engaged in independent literary and design activities. His stories and comics have been published since childhood, and he gained recognition for his collections “All for the Indies”, “Aksara Amananunna”, and “Teh dan Pengkhianat”, which ironically and humorously explore themes of colonialism, history, and everyday life. He is a laureate of the prestigious Indonesian Khatulistiwa Literary Award (2014) and the author of the novels “Sesuatu yang Salah”, “Rasinah”, “Pangeran dari Timur”, and “Sang Raja”. Banu’s work is distinguished by its vivid narrative style, focus on historical and social issues, and an original perspective on Indonesia’s colonial past.
2) Intan Paramaditu
Intan Paramadita is an Indonesian writer, scholar, and feminist, born on November 15, 1979, in Bandung. She completed her undergraduate studies at the University of Indonesia, her master’s at the University of California, and earned a PhD from New York University. She is known for her gothic style and works at the intersection of feminism, sexuality, and cultural horror. She is the author of the story collections “Apple and Knife” and “Woman’s Witchcraft” (the latter won the KhatulistiwaLiterary Award), as well as the novel “The Wandering”, which won the Tempo Award and was nominated for several international prizes. Paramadita actively publishes in academic journals on feminism, migration, media, and postcolonial studies, and is a co-founder of the School of Women’s Thought (Sekolah Pemikiran Perempuan).
3) Denny JA
Denny JA (real name Denny Ja’far Ali) is an Indonesian writer, political consultant, entrepreneur, and researcher, born on January 4, 1963. He became widely known as the creator of the essay-poetry genre, which gained popularity after the publication of his book “In the Name of Love” and inspired the release of around 150 poetry books in Indonesia and Southeast Asia. Denny JA was listed among the 30 most influential people on the Internet by Time (2015), is a recipient of the ASEAN Humanitarian and Diplomacy Literature Award (2020) and the Lifetime Achievement Award from Indonesia’s Satupena Writers Guild (2021). In 2021, his candidacy was put forward for the Nobel Prize in Literature by the Essay-Poetry Community.
Egypt:
1) Ibrahim Abdel Meguid
Ibrahim Abdel Meguid (born 1946, Alexandria) is one of Egypt’s leading writers, author of more than twenty novels, six short story collections, and numerous literary and journalistic articles. His most famous work is the “Alexandria Trilogy” (“No One Sleeps in Alexandria,” “Birds of Amber”, and “Clouds Over Alexandria”), which has been translated into English and French. Abdel Meguid has received many prestigious Egyptian and international awards, including the Naguib Mahfouz Medal and national prizes for literature and the arts. Since 1975, he has lived in Cairo and regularly publishes in major Arab periodicals. His works have inspired film and television adaptations.
2) Salwa Bakr
Salwa Bakr (born 1949, Cairo) is a renowned Egyptian writer, novelist, and critic, author of seven short story collections, seven novels, and a play. She graduated from Ain Shams University and worked as a film and theater critic for leading Arab publications, as well as a professor at the American University in Cairo. Her works, such as the novel “The Golden Chariot”, focus on the destinies of the disadvantaged and marginalized, and the challenges faced by women in Egyptian society. Bakr’s books and stories have been translated into many European languages, and her novel “The Man from Bashmour” was included in the Arab Writers Union’s list of the 100 Best Arabic Novels. She is a recipient of the German Deutsche Welle Literary Prize, a member of Egypt’s Supreme Council for Culture, and the Egyptian Writers’ Union.
3) Fathi Embabi
Fathi Embabi (born 1949) is an Egyptian writer, author of novels, short stories, and television scripts whose work reflects the political and social changes in Egypt since the 1970s. His well-known works include the novel “Dancing Camels”, which won the Sawiris Cultural Award for fiction in 2024, as well as “Pastures of Murder”, “The Wedding”, “The River of Heaven”, “Desert Masks”, and others. Embabi graduated from the Faculty of Engineering and was actively involved in the student movement of the 1970s. He has received several prestigious national and Arab prizes, including the State Encouragement Award for his novel “Pastures of Murder”.
(1995). His television series “Televisionia” aired in 2002.
1) Ibrahim Abdel Meguid
Ibrahim Abdel Meguid (born 1946, Alexandria) is one of Egypt’s leading writers, author of more than twenty novels, six short story collections, and numerous literary and journalistic articles. His most famous work is the “Alexandria Trilogy” (“No One Sleeps in Alexandria,” “Birds of Amber”, and “Clouds Over Alexandria”), which has been translated into English and French. Abdel Meguid has received many prestigious Egyptian and international awards, including the Naguib Mahfouz Medal and national prizes for literature and the arts. Since 1975, he has lived in Cairo and regularly publishes in major Arab periodicals. His works have inspired film and television adaptations.
2) Salwa Bakr
Salwa Bakr (born 1949, Cairo) is a renowned Egyptian writer, novelist, and critic, author of seven short story collections, seven novels, and a play. She graduated from Ain Shams University and worked as a film and theater critic for leading Arab publications, as well as a professor at the American University in Cairo. Her works, such as the novel “The Golden Chariot”, focus on the destinies of the disadvantaged and marginalized, and the challenges faced by women in Egyptian society. Bakr’s books and stories have been translated into many European languages, and her novel “The Man from Bashmour” was included in the Arab Writers Union’s list of the 100 Best Arabic Novels. She is a recipient of the German Deutsche Welle Literary Prize, a member of Egypt’s Supreme Council for Culture, and the Egyptian Writers’ Union.
3) Fathi Embabi
Fathi Embabi (born 1949) is an Egyptian writer, author of novels, short stories, and television scripts whose work reflects the political and social changes in Egypt since the 1970s. His well-known works include the novel “Dancing Camels”, which won the Sawiris Cultural Award for fiction in 2024, as well as “Pastures of Murder”, “The Wedding”, “The River of Heaven”, “Desert Masks”, and others. Embabi graduated from the Faculty of Engineering and was actively involved in the student movement of the 1970s. He has received several prestigious national and Arab prizes, including the State Encouragement Award for his novel “Pastures of Murder”.
(1995). His television series “Televisionia” aired in 2002.
