Overview

Features are Akhayar's long-form investigative journalism pieces. These are deep, reported stories (2,000-5,000 words) that take readers inside Myanmar's society, politics, culture, and the world.

What Makes a Good Feature?

  • Original reporting: On-the-ground interviews, first-person observations, and research
  • Narrative storytelling: Uses scenes, characters, and narrative arc
  • Deep context: Explains why this story matters to Myanmar and the world
  • Multiple perspectives: Includes diverse voices and viewpoints
  • Timeless quality: Should remain relevant 6 months or a year from now

Examples of Feature Topics

  • Inside Myanmar's underground book clubs
  • The Yangon artists preserving traditional painting
  • What happened to Myanmar's tech boom?
  • Life in Myanmar's diaspora communities
  • The new generation of Myanmar entrepreneurs
  • Environmental challenges facing the Irrawaddy Delta

Structure

  1. Lede (Opening): Start with a scene, character, or moment that captures the story
  2. Nut graph: Explain what this story is about and why it matters (around paragraph 3-4)
  3. Body: Alternate between narrative scenes and analysis/context
  4. Ending: Circle back to the opening or look forward

Requirements

  • Length: 2,000-5,000 words
  • Research time: 2-4 weeks minimum
  • Interviews: Minimum 5 sources
  • Photos: Provide 5-10 high-resolution photos if possible
  • Payment: $500-1,500 depending on length and exclusivity

Editorial Process

  1. Pitch: Send 200-word pitch with angle and access
  2. Approval: Editor approves and assigns word count
  3. Reporting: 2-4 weeks
  4. First draft: Submit on deadline
  5. Editing: 1-2 rounds with editor
  6. Publication: Within 2 weeks of final draft

Akhayar Voice

  • Serious but accessible
  • Myanmar-focused but globally aware
  • Analytical but not academic
  • Shows, doesn't just tell
  • Respects readers' intelligence

Contact

Email pitches to: editor@akhayar.com.mm