Universal Wider Reading: Authors of African & Caribbean Heritage Access

Emma Dabiri

Early Life

• Emma Dabiri was born to an Irish mother and a Nigerian father
• Grew up in Ireland as one of few mixed-race children
• Experienced racism and isolation, which influenced her later work

Education

• Studied at Trinity College Dublin, where she obtained a degree in African Studies and English
• Also holds an M.A. in Development Studies
• Completed a PhD at SOAS, University of London

Career

• Author of critically acclaimed books, including “Don't Touch My Hair” and “What White People Can Do Next: From Allyship to Coalition”
• Works as a broadcaster and presenter on various TV and radio programmes
• Teaches at both SOAS and London College of Fashion
• Has written for publications such as The Guardian, Vogue, and The Dublin Inquirer

Themes and Work

• Explores multiracial identity, colonial history, and racism
• Highlights the cultural significance of Black hair in her book “Don’t Touch My Hair”
• Advocates for intersectional approaches to activism and solidarity in “What White People Can Do Next”

Impact and Recognition

• Recognised for her insightful analysis and engaging communication on complex social issues
• Nominated for numerous awards, including the Non-Fiction Book of the Year at the British Book Awards
• Celebrated for providing a platform to discuss and challenge systemic racism and cultural appropriation

Interesting Facts

• Began her career as a model before moving into academia and writing
• Known for her engaging and approachable style, making complex ideas accessible
• Described by some as a public intellectual for her contributions to public debates on race and identity