Veranda: Summer Shake Down

BORN::FREE is a literary arts agency founded in 2014 for established, young & emerging writers of all narratives, with a special interest in African/Afro-diasporic & experimental writing. Having presented work in the UK and internationally, partnering with the likes of the V&A, ICA, British Council, Southbank Centre and Somerset House, BORN::FREE is a staple in London’s poetry scene.

Veranda is London’s flagship poetry and music jam curated and hosted by BORN::FREE’s Co-directors Belinda Zhawi and malakaï sargeant, featuring a house band boasting London’s top emerging musicians, and an audience made up of minds ready for meditation, conversation and creative elevation. Veranda facilitates experimental live performance that prioritises Afro-diasporic narratives – opening up space for rhythmic dialogue + curious encounters.

The first Veranda of 2024 features JEMILEA WISDOM-BAAKO and KAREEM PARKINS-BROWN ft. a DJ set from MA.MOYO (RTM FM) and a house band led by NATE RICKETTS (Steamdown).

There will be an opportunity to perform on our open mic. If this sounds like a bit of you, get in touch with a sample of your work before 20 June with your name and 'Veranda open mic' in the subject line. Shout us on bornfreejam@gmail.com.