Vol 8: Dawn Butler MP - A Purposeful Life

For this Black History Month bonus episode, Leah is joined by Stuart Lawrence, brother of Stephen Lawrence, a teenager murdered in a racially motivated attack in 1993. In Growing Up Black In Britain, Stuart talks to seven inspirational figures about their childhood experiences, as well as sharing insight into his own story. Contributors include, Alison Hammond, Kye Whyte and Lolly Adefope. This is a collection of courageous, thought-provoking and ultimately hopeful pieces set to educate and inspire young people. 

Leah is joined by rapper, author and broadcaster Guvna B to discuss his children's books 'Where Grandad Lives'.In 2017, Guvna B lost his dad unexpectedly and had to explain what had happened to his son Ezra. In response to this difficult time he decided with his wife Emma to write a story to help other parents and children discuss grief and loss together.

Leah is joined by change makers, sisters and founders of Everyday Racism Natalie & Naomi Evans. In this inspiring guide readers are delivered empowering advice for dealing with the issues we see, hear about and face every day, from racism and sexism to homophobia and ableism, providing you with achievable everyday actions to create change!

Leah is joined this week by podcaster, writer & actress Kelechi Okafor. Her debut story collection Edge Of Here combines the ancient and the ultramodern to explore tales of contemporary Black womanhood, asking questions about the way we live now and offering a glimpse into our near future. A thought provoking read for fans of TV series like Black Mirror. 

Leah is joined by Dawn Butler, the trailblazing Labour MP for Brent Central to speak about her book A Purposeful Life. She reveals a fascinating insight into both the personal and political sides of her journey and spills some tea along the way!

Leah is joined by Tskenya Frazer, an award-winning Forbes featured business leader and diversity, branding and sustainability specialist to speak about her new book. With the powerful rise of Black British culture, Black British entrepreneurship has rapidly become a point of great conversation. A Quick Ting On: Black British Businesses looks back on significant moments in Black British entrepreneurship, exploring the struggles, success and unique circumstances that face Black British businessesReading List: A Quick Ting On: Black British Businesses - Tskenya FrazerGreat Gatsby - F Scott FitzgeraldRosewater - Liv LittleHunger - Roxane Gay

Leah is joined by food critic and writer Jimi Famurewa. His book Settlers journeys through the hidden yet vibrant world of African London, exploring what it is to be Black, African and British.Reading List: Settlers - Jimi FamurewaThe Lonely Londoners - Same SelvonCross Roads - Jonathon FranzenWhite Teeth - Zadie Smith

Leah is joined by entrepreneur, author, and social commentator Kenny Imafidon to speak about That Peckham Boy.Kenny was charged with a murder on joint enterprise aged just 18, he spent 6 long months in prison before being freed. His real-life manifesto That Peckham Boy details it all and calls for positive change for those on the fringes of society

Leah is joined by author Catherine Joy White for a conversation about her book 'This Thread Of Gold' . She weaves together narratives that celebrate the triumph of Black female resistance, Catherine Joy White takes us on a unique journey through the eyes of positive and inspiring disruptors.From Alice Walker to Beyoncé, from Aretha Franklin to Zendaya, Catherine charts her own journey to self-discovery through the prism of extraordinary women to create a beautiful tapestry of Black joy.Reading List: This Thread Of Gold - Catherine Joy WhiteA Daughter Like Me - Jacqueline RoyJazz - Toni MorrisonComplicit - Winnie M Li

Leah is joined by legendary author Mike Gayle to discuss his brand new release A Song Of Me And You. Two heartbroken 18 year-olds part ways and meet again 20 years later, one a successful rockstar, the other a part time teacher in the lowest point of their life. Friendship, love, heartache and hope collide in this unforgettable emotional journey.Plus, Leah celebrates 25 years of Mike's incredible writing career.Reading List:Mike Gayle - A Song Of Me And YouUnreliable Memoirs - Clive JamesIn The Blink Of An Eye - Jo CallaghanGeneration X - Douglas Coupeland