BLACADEMIA is a unique mix of conference, chat show and TED Talk infused with interactive performance, screenings and visual art. This pioneering 2-day event introduces creative presentations of socially engaged research and community-based projects. Special guests include award-winning actor, theatre director, teacher and activist Josette Bushell-Mingo OBE; writer, playwright, artist/curator and scholar Michael McMillan; and photojournalist, filmmaker and producer Cathy Hassan. The state-of-the-art Ironworks Studios provides a relaxed platform for critical debate, knowledge exchange and intercultural dialogue for academics and non-academics from all walks of life – welcoming anyone interested in issues surrounding social justice, cultural awareness and lived experiences from rich and varied perspectives.

The presentations include “Jainaba – and other stories”, a performance and discussion with Rebecca Drammeh who remains the only trained black Global Majority deaf actress in Sweden. Trained at The Stockholm University of the Arts – Rebecca will share an excerpt of her ‘Jainaba Wouldn’t Stop Dreaming’ theatre piece followed by a discussion on themes of identity, language culture and inclusive structures. Voiced by Yamou Sosseh Bostrom, the performance reflects on Rebecca’s journey as a deaf person and her eventual visit to Africa.