Congratulations Kendra Valentine, the winner of The de Groot Foundation Literacy is our Legacy Aspiring Writers Award with the FAWCO Foundation!
“Frozen Assets” explores Kendra’s fertility journey as a 40-year-old Black American woman in Europe, intertwining personal narrative with reproductive science. Beginning with egg freezing at 37, the book examines the intersection of aging, identity, time, and the fundamental question: “Do I want children?” Through conversations with fertility innovator Dr. Lynae Brayboy and reflections on choice, the book addresses intimate personal struggle alongside broader implications of fertility preservation. This award will enable a focused writing retreat to complete her manuscript’s first draft. She will spend two weeks writing in the German countryside at St. Oberholz, followed by one week conducting research interviews at Dr. Brayboy’s Portugal clinic, gathering scientific insights and personal reflections. Professional developmental editing feedback will help refine the narrative structure, balancing memoir with science writing, ensuring the manuscript is submission-ready for agents and publishers.
Applications for the award are currently closed. Check back here for updates and learn more on FAWCO’s website!