Book Launch: Eight Weeks by Baroness Lola Young

Eight Weeks is a memoir that tells the remarkable life story of Baroness Lola Young of Hornsey, from her childhood in foster care, to becoming one of the first Black women in the House of Lords.

In this compelling book Lola Young sites her care records, fragments of memory, and imagination to create a vivid portrait of a childhood in a system that often made her feel invisible and unwanted. Alongside glimpses into her life as a peer, activist, and campaigner for social justice, Eight Weeks tells the powerful story of her resilience and determination.

Join us at the gallery to celebrate its launch. The evening will feature a talk between Baroness Young and Director of the Clore Leadership Programme Hilary Carty where they will will delve into the eye-opening account of being a child in care and a Black child in a white family. Following the discussion, there will be a drinks reception and the opportunity to purchase the book.

Read more about the event on our website

Baroness Lola Young of Hornsey became one of the first Black Women members of the House of Lords in 2004. Raised in foster care in north London, she studied at the New College of Speech and Drama, then worked as an actress, before becoming Professor of Cultural Studies at Middlesex University.

Later, she worked in arts administration before receiving an OBE in 2001 and becoming an independent crossbench member of the House of Lords. She is active in campaigns on modern slavery and ethical fashion. In 2017 she was on the Man Booker Prize judging panel, and she is also Chancellor of the University of Nottingham.

Hilary Carty OBE is the Executive Director, Clore Leadership, a role she took up after six years as a consultant, facilitator and coach specialising in leadership development, management and organisational change. Hilary’s earlier roles include Director of the Cultural Leadership Programme; Director, London (Arts) at Arts Council England; Director, Culture and Education at London 2012; Director of Dance for Arts Council England; Visiting Professor on leadership (Austria); and HLF London Committee Member. In recognition of her contribution to the arts, culture and heritage, Hilary has been awarded three Honorary Doctorates and three Fellowships from UK Universities. Hilary is a Governor of the Royal Ballet.

Everyone is welcome at Autograph. Planning a visit? Have a look at our Visit Us page to find out more about getting to the gallery, accessibility and more.

Limited tickets: This is an intimate event with a limited amount of tickets. We highly recommend booking a ticket in advance.

Accessible venue: Autograph welcomes people with all types of disabilities.

Step free: Our building and entrance is step free. A wheelchair accessible lift goes to all floors.

Exhibitions: Both of our current exhibitions will be open to view during this event.

Location: The talk will take place in Gallery 1 on the ground floor.

Drinks: The drinks reception will take place in our Studio on the ground floor. You'll receive a complimentary drink at this event (while supplies last).

Contactless payment: Visitors are asked to use contactless payment.

Supported using public funding by Arts Council England.

Autograph ABP Registered in England no. 2285116 | Registered Charity no. 1127712

Images: 1) Cover of Eight Weeks: Looking Back, Moving Forwards, Defying the Odds. 2) Autograph. Photograph courtesy Zoë Maxwell.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Autograph, Rivington Place, London, United Kingdom