About this Event
Cultureword’s National Black and Asian Writers Conference takes place on Saturday 15th November 2025 in Oldham, bringing together renowned writers, influential publishers, and community leaders for a vibrant day of panels, networking, and entertainment.
Open to all, the conference is a fantastic opportunity for writers of any age and background to develop their grounding in literature and enjoy performances from literary stars.
About Cultureword
Cultureword is where writers emerge. Our workshops, events and creative networks support Manchester's writers to develop their talent and potential. The National Black and Asian Writers Conference is our key biennial event platforming crucial discussion and debate about the state of the UK’s publishing industry and representation for Global Majority writers.
w ww.cultureword.org.uk
@ cultureword
Agenda
🕑: 11:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Arrival & Mingling at Hack Oldham
🕑: 12:00 PM - 01:00 PM
You Are the Scene (Panel Discussion)
Host: Najma Khalid
Info: How can Global Majority creatives thrive and help shape a high-calibre cultural scene?
"You Are the Scene" spotlights the vibrant and evolving creative community in Greater Oldham. Panellists from across Oldham’s cultural sector will discuss creative opportunities in Oldham and the past successes of some of their inspiring projects. The panel will explore visibility, collaboration, and self-representation in building a thriving creative ecosystem
🕑: 01:00 PM - 02:00 PM
Lunch Break and Book Launch with Dean Atta
Host: Dean Atta
Info: Grab some food from a local vendor and join Dean Atta for the launch of ‘Person Unlimited: An Ode to My Black Queer Body’
🕑: 02:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Crossing Lines – Interdisciplinary Queer Creatives (Panel Discussion)
Host: afshan d'souza lodhi
Info: Bringing together queer multidisciplinary artists and writers this panel will explore the intersections of identity, creativity, and resistance. Expect a dynamic conversation highlighting how queer creators of colour are challenging genre boundaries and traditional narratives through innovative practices in literature, performance, visual art, and digital media.
🕑: 03:15 PM - 04:15 PM
How to Get Published (Panel Discussion)
Host: Anita Sethi
Info: Chaired by Anita Sethi, this panel will include Joelle Owusu-Sekyere from #Merky Books, Rawan Mohamed from Peepal Tree Press, and Rhoda Nuhu from Cassava Republic Press. The discussion will cover key steps in the publishing journey—from refining your manuscript and writing query letters to understanding traditional, independent, and self-publishing routes.
Whether you're just starting out or looking to take your work to the next level, this session will provide valuable tools and encouragement to help you bring your stories to the world. Bonus panellist: Cultureword writer Marcia Hutchinson will share her journey from workshop attendee to multiple book deals!
🕑: 04:30 PM - 05:30 PM
'Unlock Your Creativity' with Roger Robinson (Talk)
Host: Roger Robinson
Info: In this invigorating talk globally recognised writer and performer Roger Robinson will explore creative habits, inspiration and how writers can approach their practice in new and productive ways. Not to be missed!
🕑: 06:00 PM - 07:00 PM
Complimentary Dinner at Tammie's Lounge
Info: Following the afternoon programme attendees are invited to a delicious Nigerian meal at Tammie's Lounge accompanied by live entertainment. The restaurant is a 3-minute walk away from Hack Oldham.
🕑: 07:00 PM - 09:00 PM
Live Performance from Roger Robinson with support from Identity Live!
Host: Roger Robinson
Info: Expect a scintillating set from this literary giant & winner of the T.S Eliot Prize 2019 and RSL Ondaatje Prize 2020. With support from Cultureword’s Global Majority writers collective Identity Live!
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Hack Oldham, 38-44 Yorkshire Street, Oldham, United Kingdom
GBP 10.00
