Benjamin Zephaniah, poet, writer, activist, Brunel University, UK

ForBenjamin.org

Poetry for the People: Continuing the Transformative Work of Benjamin Zephaniah

Benjamin Zephaniah (1958–2023) was one of Britain’s most powerful and beloved voices – a poet, novelist, actor, musician, activist and professor whose work was inseparable from his lifelong commitment to social justice.

Born into poverty in Birmingham, and leaving school at 13 after being failed by a system that neglected dyslexic students, Benjamin overcame enormous challenges to create a unique public voice. His poetry, music and writing spoke directly to people who had been silenced, urging them to discover their own power, creativity and sense of belonging.

For Benjamin, writing was always activism. He campaigned against racism, Islamophobia, homophobia and gender-based violence, and for animal rights, justice for the marginalised and the protection of the oppressed. His words inspired generations to believe that poetry is not an elite form but something that belongs to everyone.

From 2011 until his passing, Benjamin was Professor of Creative Writing at Brunel University London, where he worked tirelessly to nurture creativity in the local community. He visited schools and colleges, mentored young writers, and played a vital role in the Hillingdon Literary Festival. He gave his time generously, always returning to his principle: poetry must be for the people.

Benjamin’s sudden death in 2023 left a profound void, but it also lit a determination to continue his work. ForBenjamin.org exists to carry forward his legacy: to champion the idea that creativity is a universal right and to create spaces where diverse voices can be heard.

What we do

Community poetry workshops – free workshops in Hillingdon and beyond, bringing together local groups, refugees and emerging writers.
Poetry in translation – translating Benjamin’s poems into the many languages spoken in our community, celebrating the borough’s multicultural identity.
Festivals and events – annual celebrations beginning with Benjamin Zephaniah Day on April 12th 2025, featuring performances, workshops and readings.
Publications and anthologies – new writing from participants will be published in community anthologies and shared widely.
Digital platform – here, on ForBenjamin.org, we showcase poetry, performance videos and creative discussions, making space for writers of all backgrounds.

Our aim

By working with groups such as the Farsi Action Foundation, Hillingdon Refugee Support Group and others, we are creating lasting cultural connections. Our goal is to build a living legacy of Benjamin Zephaniah’s work: a legacy that continues to challenge injustice, celebrates diversity and to give poetry back to the people.