ONLINE REsources
Journalism is a confusing field to navigate—and it’s even hazier for emerging Black writers, who often fight institutionalized racism and closed networks, often without connections or support. We’ve compiled a running list of free and low-cost resources in hopes of providing clarity for those looking for an entry point into the world of food writing. If you have any resources you think we should add, let us know—we’re looking to build a dope, robust, living list of useful information!
Girls write now
As the only non-profit dedicated to girls and non-binary people, Girls Write Now pairs mentees with established womxn writers and media professionals and aims to break down gender, racial and socioeconomic barriers for young womxn of all backgrounds.
While Twitter can be a cacophony of unsolicited opinions, it’s a useful resource once you wade through the noise. Follow Writers of Color. Reach out and interact with writers and editors and keep an eye out for dope stuff like this sample freelance tracking sheet you can use to track your pitches and invoices and this slideshow on navigating your career by Millie Tran.
Study Hall
From learning how to pitch (along with countless examples of pitches that worked for freelancers) to tips on how to get paid well and what publications to avoid, Study Hall’s 4000+ members have probably asked (and answered) almost every question you have about freelancing. The best part? You can get access to all of the resources for $1/month if you’re a media worker of color.
SUCCESSFUL PITCHES
Knowing how to pitch a certain publication is hard, so Naomi Tomsky created a growing database of successful pitches submitted by writers to over 50 publications, like Architectural Digest, The New York Times, Eater, and more.
Freelancing with Tim
Tim Herrera from the New York Times created a newsletter to demystify freelance writing—and it’s free! Along with weekly posts, Tim also hosts interactive Zoom panels where freelance writers can get all their questions answered by experienced editors and freelancers.
Max Falkowitz’s Freelancer Resources
Max doles out a healthy amount of advice and help for freelancers on his Twitter page and he also has a list of great freelance resources on his site, too!
recommended by Daniela Galarza
How to Write Pitches that Editors Accept
This hour-long workshop is from Jamie Lauren Keiles, an editor at New York Magazine. The workshop covers “writing a great pitch, how to find good places to pitch, how to form relationships with editors, and what to do when editors aren't responding, and more.” $5 allows you to stream the workshop as many times as you’d like over 24 hours.
recommended by Daniela Galarza
The Write Life
The Write Life covers almost every type of writing imaginable—from freelance writing and blogging to content marketing and self-publishing. With advice and tips from seasoned professionals, it’s an invaluable resource for new writers.