Brunel University of London opens its doors for a heartfelt tribute to the pioneering poet and professor. From literary performances to delicious vegan food, share the love and joy Benjamin brought to the world
The first ever Benjamin Zephaniah Day to celebrate the late poet’s life and legacy is fixed for Saturday 12 April 2025, at Brunel University of London.
Led by Qian Zephaniah, Benjamin’s wife, the gathering falls on the beloved poet, writer, actor and activist’s birthday weekend.
Treasured as ‘the people’s laureate,’ the pioneering dub poet used his work to fight injustice, and blazed brightly in post as Professor of Creative Writing at the university. He died in December 2023 only eight weeks after being diagnosed with a brain tumour.
The inaugural Benjamin Zephaniah Dayat the university’s Uxbridge campus in West London, will showcase Benjamin’s art and advocacy with family-friendly festivities. Expect celebrity tributes, music, martial arts, literary performances, workshops and tasty vegan street food. It’s free and open to all ages. Join us in the main square of campus, recently 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…
"When Benjamin was asked what he wanted his legacy to be, he said simply, 'love’,
Said Qian. “Benjamin Zephaniah Day is one of the ways we honour that legacy. It will be a day that shows what was close to Benjamin's heart, and people who loved him will be there to show that, too.
“We invite everyone who, like Benjamin, believes that love is one of the greatest gifts we can offer to one another. It will be an annual event dedicated to continuing the celebration of Benjamin Obadiah Iqbal Zephaniah and the legacy of his work and love.”
Friend and fellow poet Lemn Sissay describes Benjamin’s life as a poem, “one that pulses with the heartbeat of revolution and compassion. We don’t just celebrate your work today, Benjamin — we celebrate your spirit, your boundless energy, your unyielding belief in a better world. You are more than a poet, more than an activist — you are a brother, a beacon, and a blessing.”
More details will be announced on brunel.ac.uk/Zephaniah