Akata Who?

What methods and tactics does speculative fiction offer when dealing with everyday encounters of racism, especially within the classroom? How can storytelling in spaces of solidarity give young adults both an emotional outlet and a sense of empowerment by helping them process their experiences of perceived “otherness” in a new light? Nigerian-American author Nnedi Okorafor’s Nsibidi Script Series (Akata Witch, Akata Warrior, and Akata Woman) poignantly weave in stories of the West-African colonial past, slavery, and racism, as well as the ongoing corruption, pollution, and wars in the Niger Delta with elements of Africanjujuism and Africanfuturism in an inspiring coming-of-age story. This event, led by Pırıltı Onukar, the English-to-Turkish translator of the novels, will activate the fantastical world of Okorafor, offering participants an opportunity to read and perform passages from the novels, to listen to each other, and fabulate their own narratives that deal with the topic of racism.

This is a small workshop designed for participants aged 10-16, with a limited capacity of 15 spots. Prior reading of the books is not required to take part in the event. Please note, this event is at the Bijlmer Parktheater in Amsterdam-Zuidoost.

Visit the website of Pakhuis de Zwijger, for speakers and details