Jen Calleja is is an author, translator, and publisher. She has published seven books of fiction, poetry, and non-fiction, and has translated around 20 books from German into English for both large and small publishers.

Matt Abbott is a poet, lyricist, and educator whose work combines literature with social engagement. He began performing poetry in 2006 and has been a full-time poet since 2013, publishing collections, contributing to anthologies, and writing commissioned work for organisations and campaigns.

Polly Atkin is a poet, nonfiction writer, editor, and bookseller based in Cumbria. Her writing includes biography, memoirs, and nature writing, and she has been active in the literary and academic worlds for more than two decades. She also co-owns a long-established independent bookshop.

Mohamed Tonsy is is an Egyptian writer and bookseller based in Edinburgh. His debut novel was developed through Maslaha’s MFest Short Story Competition. He has been active in literary networks, including the Scottish BPOC Writers Network.

HOW TO VOTE: Voting is open to anyone who has been a Full Member of the Society of Authors since May 1. 🗳️ Ballot papers will be sent to you in the post. ✉️ You can only vote by post. 💰 Your voting pack will include a pre-paid envelope.

❗ All votes need to be received by Wednesday 22 October. We recommend posting yours by Friday 17 October if you live in the UK, earlier if you live outside the UK. If you don’t receive your voting pack by mid-September, email membership@societyofauthors.org to ask for another.

AFTER YOU VOTE: 🗣️ Remind at least 5 other members of the SoA to vote. 💪 Tell them why you're voting for Jen, Matt, Polly and Mohamed and why you think they can pave the way for better pay, protection against AI, refusing complicity in genocide, and freedom of speech. 🤳 Share these posts!