Kidwell-e Festival founder and author Julian Ruck said his event was important for new writers, and could be where the next self-publishing superstar author was plucked from obscurity.
The other change in the starting pack sees David Fa'alogo promoted from the bench in place of second rower Setaimata Sa, with veteran David Kidwell coming on to the bench.
Mr Ruck, author of the Ragged Cliffs Trilogy, said he set up the festival to provide young authors with a chance, and to promote literacy through a children's event running alongside Kidwell-e.