Benjamin Zephaniah Plaque Unveiled at STEAMhouse

To honour the life and work of honorary doctorate Benjamin Zephaniah, a commemorative plaque has been unveiled outside of STEAMhouse. The plaque was accompanied by the planting of a ceremonial tree, and the launch of the Future Writers competition to encourage writers and poets to explore their literary talents.

The plaque was produced by local Midland’s artist and BCU alumnus Luke Perry which highlights Benjamin’s love of the natural world.

Attending the ceremony, Benjamin’s wife, Qian Zephaniah, spoke about the impact of her late husband’s work: “Forward Ever, Backward Never, this was what Benjamin would always say.

“Even though he is no longer with us, life moves forward and carries on through Benjamin Zephaniah Future Writers competition.”

Forward Ever, Backward Never, reflects the commitment we have here to innovation at STEAMhouse.

Professor Harris Beider, Pro-Vice Chancellor of Engagement, Enterprise and Innovation at Birmingham City University, hopes the competition will help reignite local pride: “It’s vital that we recognise Benjamin’s role as a BCU honorary doctorate by creating opportunities for future writers.

“Benjamin’s work took inspiration from Birmingham which brought joy and happiness to multiple generations of Brummies. We hope that the Future Writers competition will continue this tradition and encourage people feel proud of their own communities.”

The Future Writers competition is open to six categories including primary and secondary school children, and adults.

This year, the inaugural theme has been inspired by Benjamin Zephaniah’s poem “People Need People.” Benjamin wrote the piece at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, when lockdown measures made people feel socially isolated.

Judges are encouraging both school students and adults to submit stories and poems that explore their connection to their communities.

Winners will also receive a framed piece of their poem and a book of Benjamin’s poetry, and have their winning entries included in the Benjamin Zephaniah Future Writers Winners’ Anthology published by Poetry Birmingham Literary Journal (PBLJ).

For more information and to submit your entry, visit www.bcu.ac.uk/future-writers.