Olatoun Gabi-Williams

3 weeks ago | pan-african.net | Olatoun Gabi-Williams

In May 2019, I attended a 3-day seminar in Nairobi hosted by the International Publisher’s Association (IPA) and titled, Africa Rising. If you were to ask me what I took away from that event, I would say the wealth of insights and knowledge generously imparted by two patriarchs of the African book industry. The men were, Ngugi wa Thiong’o, world renowned author and scholar and decolonization activist, and Dr. Henry Chakava of East African Educational Publishers (EAEP).

1 month ago | pan-african.net | Olatoun Gabi-Williams

Just two months ago, I found out about the Climate Fiction Prize. On 13th March 2025, the final day of the London Book Fair, it was my interest in sustainability that took me to the session  titled, Climate Fiction: The Rapid Rise of Climate Storytelling . Taking place in the Focus Theatre, Hall 1, rather than restrict itself to the survey outcomes implied in  the panel topic, I was glad to find conversation between the 2 discussants focusing almost exclusively on it.

1 month ago | pan-african.net | Olatoun Gabi-Williams

PART I – DAVID AGUILARThe Hand Solo Story: From Difference to StrengthOlatoun: You were born with Poland syndrome. Briefly explain what it is. How does it manifest? David: Poland syndrome is a congenital disorder characterized by the absence or underdevelopment of the pectoralis major muscle on one side of the body. It can also affect the shoulder, arm, and hand. It is believed to be due to an alteration in embryonic circulation during gestation.

2 months ago | pan-african.net | Olatoun Gabi-Williams

The London Book Fair brought me back to Olympia London after a two-year absence. The vast venue was buzzing with exhibitors and attendees. Navigating the sprawling hall, I eventually found the Media Centre, a spacious area on the upper floor offering workstations, lounges, and refreshments.

2 months ago | pan-african.net | Olatoun Gabi-Williams

LONDON, MARCH 2025The London Book Fair (LBF) in 2022 was a good memory for me. I had served as a panel speaker and met a cluster of people I am still in touch with. Having missed it over the last 2 years, I was glad to have flown into London early enough in March to participate. On Tuesday 11th March, it was a short journey on the London Underground to Olympia London. Stop and search at the entrance was brief.