Benjamin Zephaniah honoured by University

29 January 2010

Renowned poet Benjamin Zephaniah was honoured by the University of Hull today for his contribution to literature.

Mr Zephaniah is well-known for speaking out on political issues as well as writing reggae or ‘dub’ poetry, releasing records and writing books and articles for a wide range of publications. He has a connection with the city because Hull Truck theatre gave him a platform at the beginning of his career.

Professor Martin Goodman, Director of the University’s Philip Larkin Centre for Poetry and Creative Writing, was Mr Zephaniah’s presenting officer at the ceremony.

He said: “Benjamin Zephaniah is a true bard. His performances strike chords in audiences around the globe, and he has a special skill and passion for connecting with youngsters. We’re delighted to connect his brilliance and verve to Hull.”

Born and raised in Handsworth, Birmingham, the poet’s work is strongly influenced by Jamaican music and poetry and by what he calls ‘street politics’. He made his first public performance in church aged 10, and by the time he was 15 he had a reputation as a young poet capable of speaking on local and international issues. As an adult, he was invited by Nelson Mandela to host the Two Nations concert at Albert Hall in 1996.

He has appeared on television programmes ranging from Eastenders to The South Bank Show and is involved in a range of organisations from the Hackney Empire Theatre to the Vegan Society. He is the only living non-royal to have a hospital ward named after him: the Benjamin Zephaniah Ward in Ealing Hospital, London.

When receiving his degree, he said to students that the University is associated with some great poets and he encouraged them to put some poetry in their lives.

While at the University of Hull campus, Mr Zephaniah also took part in a Q&A session with creative writing students.

He is one of six honorary graduands at the winter graduation ceremonies. Other notable figures to receive honorary degrees were: footballer Nick Barmby, businessman Paul Sewell, forensic expert Dave Barclay, theologian Dame Mary Tanner and local historian Alec Gill.

They were chosen for their achievements in their field, and were an inspiration to the hundreds of students who graduated alongside them.

Vice-Chancellor, Professor Calie Pistorius, said: “The University is delighted to have conferred honorary degrees to such a distinguished and diverse range of people.

“Our graduation ceremonies give us the chance to congratulate our students, and wish them luck as they embark upon new careers or further study. Our honorary graduates have helped make the ceremonies even more special for our departing students.”

Ends.