9 May 2024
Recently, we welcomed the incredible Faridah Àbíké-Íyímídé, New York Times, International bestselling, and Award-winning author (of Ace of Spades and Where Sleeping Girls Lie) to meet with our students. The event proved to be an absolute hit, with Faridah talking about her experience at University and how it shaped her stories.
We decided to catch up with three Year 10 attendees to discuss what they enjoyed and the ways Faridah has motivated them since her visit. Overwhelmingly each student was blown away by just how humble Faridah is, especially considering her enormous success! The impact of meeting someone who ‘looks like me’, strong willed and determined to tell their stories has been incredibly inspiring. Naturally portrayed, Faridah’s characters break down walls of their distinctive and diverse backgrounds. With nuanced descriptions, readers look beyond stereotypes, relating to individuals for who they are not just what they represent. Students were encouraged to look at their lives and use their experiences, as fuel for their own creative thinking, writing, and reading. Each student felt empowered after talking with Faridah, and would like to thank her for taking time to talk with them, about references and influences (Shakespeare is a major one) and sharing in a mutual love of K Pop and Drama!
