Sir Ben Okri, OBE FRSL, is an acclaimed author and speaker whose voice resonates far beyond the literary world. Renowned for weaving African folklore, spirituality, and pressing social themes into his work, Ben inspires audiences to rethink the world around them. His internationally celebrated novel “The Famished Road” won the Booker Prize in 1991, making him the youngest recipient of the award at just 32. With a knighthood awarded in 2023 for services to literature, Ben’s life and career offer a deep well of wisdom and creativity. He is regularly invited to speak at major events for his rare ability to move and motivate audiences through intellect, empathy, and lyrical storytelling.
Ben’s early career is a story of tenacity and vision. After publishing his first novel “Flowers and Shadows” in 1980, he went on to serve as poetry editor at “West Africa” magazine and contributed regularly to the BBC World Service between 1983 and 1986. His early writing, often focused on themes of transformation and identity, set the foundation for a career defined by depth and innovation. Through personal adversity and professional perseverance, Ben forged a unique literary path that brought global recognition while staying grounded in messages of resilience and self-discovery.
In the decades since, Ben has continued to build an impressive body of work, spanning novels, poetry, theatre, and film. He adapted Camus’s “The Outsider” into a stage production and wrote the script for “N – The Madness of Reason”, a film that won the 2015 Ensor Award. His influence extends to major institutions, serving as vice-president for the Caine Prize for African Writing and the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama. Recognised with honorary doctorates from the University of Exeter and Nelson Mandela University, Ben remains a key figure in the global literary and cultural landscape, frequently called upon for keynote addresses, such as at the 2019 Berlin African Book Festival.
Organisations choose Ben as a motivational speaker because he offers more than just insight – he provides transformation. His talks, steeped in poetic expression and philosophical depth, challenge audiences to reflect, imagine, and act. Whether addressing creativity, cultural understanding, or environmental awareness, Ben leaves a lasting impression, making him a powerful and inspiring presence at any event.
