A national celebration to commemorate and champion the legacy of Benjamin Zephaniah, led by Qian Zephaniah, Benjamin’s wife. The first annual event is to be held on Saturday 12 April 2025, hosted by Brunel University of London.Coinciding with his birthday weekend, the inaugural Benjamin Zephaniah Day will champion the art and advocacy work of Benjamin in a celebratory day of family-friendly festivities. We’ll enjoy literary and musical performances, martial arts demos, community competitions, charity showcases, celebrity tributes, street food and varied workshops for all ages, throughout the day. All free and open to all. Join us in the main square of campus, renamed Benjamin Zephaniah Square in his honour.The evening will include a high-profile showcase of the extraordinary love and talent that surrounded Benjamin, with tributes from renowned writers, musical guests, and some of the many voices that he inspired. Special guests include Adjoah Andoh, Linton Kwesi Johnson, Hannah Lowe, Daljit Nagra, Michael Rosen, Lemn Sissay, with more to be announced.Register your details here to be the first to know more!
Portrait courtesy of Adam Docker Photography
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Professor Benjamin Zephaniah, Brunel Professor of Creative Writing
For more information about Benjamin and his legacy
To be announced
Organising an activity that celebrates the legacy of Benjamin Zephaniah? Get in touch. We're eager to champion the many activities taking place, from classroom to community workshops and beyond.