DRF David Miller Internship programme to return for second year

The DRF David Miller Internship Programme is to return for a second year, the organisers have announced. 

In May 2022, the Deborah Rogers Foundation (DRF) announced it was partnering with Creative Access to offer two internships in an effort to create publishing industry entry pathways for people in underrepresented groups. 

It meant the DRF David Miller Bursary, which the foundation initially awarded to a developing rights professional already working in the business, would be redirected to support two paid internships over a six-week period. The bursary was retitled The DRF David Miller Internship Programme in memory of RCW agent David Miller, who died in 2016.

The internship will be returning in 2023, offering an entry-level introduction to rights and agenting in publishing companies and literary agencies, providing a full understanding of the role of rights professionals within the wider industry. Companies committed to the programme and which will provide placements include Penguin Random House, Faber, Profile Books, David Higham, Greyhound Literary, ILA, PEW Literary and Eccles Fisher.

The organisation says this will be achieved through “first-hand experience and intensive training, with the specific aim of providing a significant stepping stone to the successful candidates in their search for future employment". Interns’ educational schedule will include involvement with The Frankfurt Book Fair in October, and they will be given mentoring and guidance throughout their placements.

Payment will be made in two stages, based on the current rate of the London Living Wage at £11.95 per hour for seven hours per day for six weeks (£2,510). Expenses of £100 per week will be included for travel and other costs. The total payable to each intern will therefore be £3,110, of which £2,000 will be paid at the start of the programme and the balance after four weeks. Accommodation will be provided and paid for if needed.

In 2022 internships were awarded to Valentia Adarkwa-Afari and Hannah Asikhia. Reflecting on their experiences, Adarkwa-Afari commented: “The DRF Internship has been one of the most invaluable experiences of my life. As a recipient, I have felt nothing but appreciation and gratitude towards everyone involved in creating such a wonderful programme for me.” Asikhia added: “I feel incredibly lucky to have been one of the recipients of the David Miller internship programme. The experience has provided an in-depth entry into the world of rights."

Laurence Laluyaux, head of international rights at RCW and trustee of the Deborah Rogers Foundation, said: “The first internship programme was a resounding success, thanks to our two impressive winners and to the generous partners who gave them the opportunity to explore many different aspects of the publishing world, both in London and during the Frankfurt Book Fair. We are much looking forward to repeating the adventure this year."

Bibi Hilton, chief executive of Creative Access, added: “At a time when financial obstacles continue to be a key barrier to entering the literary industry for so many people, it is brilliant to see the DRF David Miller Internship Programme offering support with accommodation and travel costs in addition to the fully paid internship.

“This is a really pioneering scheme, which sets a new standard for internships and will open up the sector to even more people from communities underrepresented in publishing and literary rights and agenting, we’re honoured to be a key partner.”

Applications should be made to Creative Access and will open in June. More information can be found here.