Lemn Sissay Talk

It was a real honour to welcome Lemn Sissay to CH on 22 March to speak to pupils from DG/Year 12 and UF/Year 10. Lemn is a high-profile, award-winning author and one of the most celebrated poets in the UK, who was awarded an MBE for services to literature by the Queen.

He spoke compellingly about his youth in care and kept his audience enthralled from beginning to end with his magnifying presence. He also read excerpts from his book My Name is Why, the powerful and inspiring account of his journey from neglect and despair to artistic and cultural recognition.

‘When I first read Lemn Sissay’s book, I was not only amazed because of how extraordinary his story was, but I also felt that I could relate to his experience about things which I have struggled myself to talk about and understand. Lemn’s visit inspired me to find out more about who I am, and reassured me that my circumstances don’t define me.’ Summer, DG/Year 12.