Write for Solace

Why Write for Solace?

Solace is a growing platform for uplifting, human-centred journalism. We publish original stories about progress, resilience, kindness, and innovation — the kind of news that reminds people the world is worth caring about.

We're building something different from the engagement-driven negativity cycle. If you believe stories can change how people see the world, you belong here.

Who We're Looking For

You don't need a journalism degree or a thousand followers. We're looking for people who can:

• Find a real story — something that happened to real people, with names, places, and verifiable details
• Report it honestly — talk to the people involved, gather quotes, check facts
• Write it clearly — engaging prose that respects the reader's time and intelligence
• Care about the mission — you genuinely want to tell stories that uplift without being saccharine

We especially welcome pitches from student journalists, early-career writers, freelancers building their clip file, and subject-matter experts who want to tell a story from their field.

What We Publish

Solace covers six categories. Every story should fit naturally into one:

1. Innovation & Progress — breakthroughs in science, technology, policy, or systems that make life better
2. Community & Connection — neighbours helping neighbours, grassroots movements, local wins
3. Nature & Renewal — environmental restoration, conservation wins, rewilding, climate solutions
4. Courage & Resilience — people overcoming adversity, standing up for others, rebuilding after hardship
5. Creativity & Art — artists, musicians, makers, and builders who create beauty and meaning
6. Kindness & Compassion — acts of generosity, empathy in action, human decency at scale

Submission Guidelines

Article length

1,500 to 1,800 words (approximately a 7-minute read). This is the sweet spot for engagement, shareability, and depth. We'll consider shorter pieces (800+ words) for tightly focused stories and longer pieces (up to 2,500 words) for in-depth features — but pitch first.

Article structure

Formatting

• Write in short paragraphs — 2 to 4 sentences maximum
• Use subheadings (H2) to break up sections
• Include at least one direct quote from someone involved in the story
• Suggest a hero image (your own photo, or a freely licensed image with credit)
• Include a one-sentence excerpt and a compelling title
• Add 3–5 tags that describe the story's themes

What to submit

You can submit at any stage:

• A pitch — 150–300 words describing the story, who's involved, why it matters, and any sources you have. We'll respond within 5 business days.
• A draft — A completed article ready for editorial review. We'll provide feedback within 7 business days.

Submit through our contribution form or email us directly at [email protected].

The Process

1. You pitch or submit — Tell us what you want to write, or send the finished piece
2. We review — Our editorial team reads every submission. You'll hear back within 5–7 business days
3. We collaborate — If your pitch is accepted, we'll work with you on structure, sourcing, and edits. This is collaborative, not adversarial
4. We publish — Your story goes live with your byline, author page, and social sharing. We promote it across our channels

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need writing experience?

Helpful but not required. We care more about the story than the CV. If you've found something worth telling and can write clearly, we want to hear from you.

Can I write about my own experience?

Yes — first-person pieces work well for Courage & Resilience and Community & Connection stories. Just make sure it goes beyond personal reflection: include context, other perspectives, and concrete details.

Can I pitch a story someone else should write?

Absolutely. Use the "I have a story to share" option on our contribute page. Give us the details and our editorial team will take it from there. You'll be credited as the source.

How long until my piece is published?

Typically 1–3 weeks from acceptance, depending on editorial workload and how much revision is needed.

Can I republish my Solace article elsewhere?

Yes. You retain the rights to your work. We ask for a 7-day exclusivity window after publication, after which you're free to republish with a link back to the original on Solace.