Freelance Writer What's Up Africa

The WUA team is looking to build on the success of its first 3 seasons on BBC by hiring the best comedy writer (or writer/performer) in Africa!

RNW Media

RNW Media uses media for change, connecting communities and change-makers through innovative use of media and training. We discuss sensitive topics in parts of the world where freedom of speech cannot be taken for granted. And we enable young people to make informed choices, because informed people shape a better future.

What’s Up Africa

What’s Up Africa (WUA) is a satirical, comedy video blog about African news. The show is broadcast twice weekly on BBC Africa’s programme Focus on Africa, each episode reaching a TV audience of 12 million people. The show is also shared online, including on BBC digital platforms. WUA is co-produced by the BBC and RNW Media.

The WUA team is looking to build on the success of its first 3 seasons on BBC by hiring the best comedy writer (or writer/performer) in Africa!

Freelance Comedy Writer
1-2 days per week for 2 months
Vacancy number: 16-005

What You’ll Be Doing

The writer (or writer/performer) will contribute to creating satirical, hilarious sketches and direct-to-camera videos in line with the well-defined WUA satirical voice that our fans have come to know and love, while inserting your own creative voice into the mix.
Specifically, that means:
• Develop funny, compelling and original scripts, concepts, ideas and pitches that work within WUA's voice and tone. (each WUA episode is between 90 - 120 seconds, so scripts need to be both witty and have punchy gags)
• Make deadlines and secure in writing to time and specifications (very quick turnaround)
• Collaborate with WUA’s main writer/performer Ikenna Azuike on scripts for new episodes.
• Be flexible and available for Skype phone calls and back and forth on script
• (If you are also a performer) Appear on camera in WUA as a performer when required.

Basic Qualifications

Must
• 2-6 years of writing experience with in-depth knowledge of short-form, scripted web video content or scripted television content.
• Knowledge of and an interest in African news, current affairs, pop culture and storytelling is essential.

Preferred
• Specific experience with online video series
• Directing/producing/performing experience for web, digital, TV.
• Living and working in sub-Saharan Africa

Your application should include

• Your CV
• An example of material already broadcast on TV or online, which was written by you.
• (If you’re also a performer) A few clips of your past comedic performances.
• 1 story pitch that you feel would be in line with the What’s Up Africa episode style. (Pitch should include: title, some comedy treatment/sketch ideas and an explanation as to why you think this show would work on the web)

Tell us:
o your personal, favorite thing you’ve ever done online, whether it’s a full web series, one sketch, a tweet- whatever
o your comedy hero/heroine and favorite web/TV show/tweeter or facebooker

Other Characteristics/Competencies
• Strong interpersonal, written and verbal communication skills.
• Professional attitude.
• Open to constructive feedback and criticism.
• Collaborative and proactive.

What we’re offering you

• A competitive fee
• The opportunity to work with an ambitious team to grow further a satirical format which has proven successful

Application process

To apply, please complete the application form below and upload your CV and letter of application before 31 January 2016.

Freelance writer WUA