Brunel University to Honour Benjamin Zephaniah with a Festival of Music, Poetry, and Activism

Brunel University of London will honour the life and legacy of the late poet, activist, and professor Benjamin Zephaniah with a day-long festival celebrating his impact on literature, social justice, and the spoken word.

The late Prof Zephaniah

Taking place on Saturday, 12 April 2025, during his birthday weekend, the inaugural Benjamin Zephaniah Day: A Festival of Rhythm, Unity and Revolution will bring together artists, writers, and activists for a powerful tribute to his enduring influence.

Professor Zephaniah, who passed away in December 2023, was widely regarded as a trailblazing poet and a fearless advocate for racial equality, veganism, and working-class voices. Throughout his lifetime, he challenged oppression in all its forms, famously rejecting an OBE in protest of Britain’s colonial past.

At Brunel University, where he served as a professor of creative writing, he was cherished as an inspiring teacher and a profound literary figure. The university has described him as a brilliant mind and the people’s laureate, committed to using words as a force for change. This festival aims to reflect his own wish for his legacy to be defined by love, uniting those who were moved by his work and activism.

Performances, workshops, and exhibitions dedicated to Professor Zephaniah’s passions. Renowned literary organisations such as the Black Writers Guild, WritersMosaic, and Apples and Snakes will take over the stage, while a Speakers’ Corner will invite attendees to share their own poetry and spoken word performances. Creative workshops will be available for both adults and children, offering interactive opportunities to explore storytelling, poetry, and activism.

Exhibitions and film screenings will highlight Professor Zephaniah’s work and the causes he championed, while live performances from poets, musicians, and artists will reflect his global impact. Contributions from the Royal Society of Literature Fellows and a performance by Fire Choir will add to the day’s celebrations, along with a Tai Chi demonstration by Clive Spring of the Black Dragon School of Martial Arts. In keeping with Professor Zephaniah’s advocacy for plant-based living, vegan food stalls will be present throughout the event.

A number of high-profile writers and performers will participate, including actor and director Adjoa Andoh, best known for her role in Bridgerton, legendary dub poet Linton Kwesi Johnson, former Children’s Laureate Michael Rosen, playwright and poet Lemn Sissay, Costa Book Award-winning poet Hannah Lowe, and Forward Prize-winning poet Daljit Nagra. Independent bookshop This Is Book Love will be in attendance, selling books by the featured artists and unveiling two new Benjamin Zephaniah publications.

Professor Zephaniah’s widow, Qian Zephaniah, has been instrumental in shaping the event to ensure it reflects his values and passions. She described the festival as a heartfelt tribute that will bring together those who loved him and those who continue to be inspired by his words.

Made possible through public funding from the National Lottery via Arts Council England, the event is expected to become an annual tradition, ensuring that Professor Zephaniah’s commitment to justice, creativity, and community remains an inspiration for generations to come. Tickets are free but must be booked in advance via Brunel University’s website: www.brunel.ac.uk/news-and-events.