As part of Poetry for the People: Continuing the Transformative Work of Benjamin Zephaniah and Brunel Creates, a month-long celebration of creativity at Brunel University of London, on 13 May 2026 we bring you an afternoon of events in celebration and remembrance of late Professor of Creative Writing at Brunel, Benjamin Zephaniah. This includes community workshops led by leading poets, and poetry readings and performances from students, alumni and special guests. Supported by Arts Council England, we reflect on the inspiring and influential work of Benjamin Zephaniah and his continued legacy at Brunel and beyond.
The small-group workshops (maximum 12 participants), led by poets Wayne Holloway-Smith and Henry Stone, form part of the Benjamin Zephaniah legacy project, funded by Arts Council England – Poetry for the People. The project aims to sustain Benjamin’s important legacy through a programme of workshops with local community groups and libraries, led by leading poets, translators, and emerging artists. These workshops are open for anyone to join – from those thinking about writing poetry to published poets!
As part of this event, we are also inviting aspiring poets and artists to submit work inspired by Benjamin Zephaniah to the ForBenjamin website, to build a lasting legacy to his life and work. Submit your work here.
Sign up for the workshops and performance here.
