Never Too Black: The Significance of Authentic Representation in Writing
“Never Too Black: The Significance of Authentic Representation in Writing”
Welcome to an insightful and empowering panel discussion centred on the theme “Never Too Black: The Significance of Authentic Representation in Writing.” This session delves into the vital importance of embracing and showcasing Black voices and experiences in literature.
Join our esteemed panel of accomplished Black authors Dean Atta, Babolua, xxx, xxxx, share their journeys and perspectives on authentic representation. Discover the transformative power of stories that truthfully depict Black characters, cultures, and narratives.
Through engaging discussions, we’ll explore how authentic representation fosters understanding, challenges stereotypes, and amplifies Black voices. This event celebrates the diversity and richness of Black storytelling and highlights the necessity of inclusion and representation in all forms of writing.
Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of an enlightening conversation that celebrates the beauty of being “Never Too Black” and sparks positive change in the literary world. Join us as we celebrate authenticity, unity, and the power of embracing diverse perspectives in writing.
Chair: James Barber – Screenwriter and Intersectional Storyteller James Barber is a South London-based screenwriter known for his critically acclaimed web series Flatshare, which gained fame in 2019 and later made its TV debut on London Live in 2021. His writing beautifully weaves grounded drama and comedy for both adult and YA audiences. Currently, James is working on a range of TV scripts, specs, and shorts that explore the intersections of race, sexuality, and neurodiversity.
Meet the panelists:
Chair: James Barber – Intersectional Screenwriter Known for his critically acclaimed web series Flatshare, James Barber is a South London-based screenwriter. His writing beautifully combines grounded drama and comedy for adult and YA audiences. Currently, James is exploring the intersections of race, sexuality, and neurodiversity in his works, including TV scripts, specs, and shorts.
Dean Atta – Acclaimed YA Author and Poet Dean Atta’s mesmerizing YA novels-in-verse, such as The Black Flamingo and Only on the Weekends, have earned him praise as one of poetry’s greatest modern voices. The Black Flamingo was a top-selling debut in 2020, earning nominations for prestigious awards like the Waterstones Children’s Book Prize and CILIP Carnegie Medal.
Temi Oh – Sci-Fi Enthusiast and Bestselling Author A neuroscience graduate from King’s College London, Temi Oh brings her passion for science-fiction to her works. Her debut novel, Do You Dream of Terra-Two?, earned acclaim from publications like The Guardian and Stylist, and was shortlisted for the Diverse Book Awards.
Bolu Babalola – British Nigerian Romcomoisseur Bolu Babalola is a master of love stories, writing captivating books, scripts, and culture pieces. Her short story collection, LOVE IN COLOUR, became a Times bestseller, and her debut novel, HONEY AND SPICE, was a Reese Witherspoon Book Club pick. She has also contributed cultural insights to esteemed publications like NYMag and Vogue.
