Africa's first Nobel Laureate in Literature, Wole Soyinka, will be the distinguished VIP speaker at Africa Alive! 2024, a major gathering of Harvard alumni, faculty, and students passionate about Africa's future.
A statement signed by Tomas Felcman on behalf of Africa Alive!, the 2024 organizing committee, states that the event will take place from October 11 to 13, 2024.
“Professor Soyinka will grace our event and offer incomparable insights, reflections and stories. Their presence promises to transform Africa Viva! 2024 in an extraordinary and unforgettable experience.
''This is not just an opportunity to listen: it is a rare privilege to witness a titan of global culture in action. Prepare to be captivated, challenged, and inspired as we gather to hear from one of the greatest literary minds of our time! the statement said.
Soyinka is not only a renowned playwright, poet, author and essayist, but also a visionary whose works have inspired generations. His unwavering commitment to human rights and freedom of expression has left an indelible mark and ignited a global movement.
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In 1986, Soyinka became the first African to receive the Nobel Prize in Literature. His impressive body of work includes more than 25 plays, ten essays, seven poetry collections, five memoirs, three novels, and two translated works.
Soyinka was a political prisoner between 1967 and 1969 for his article calling for a ceasefire during the Nigerian civil war. His imprisonment inspired the 1972 memoir The Man Died: Prison Notes, a compelling account of his experiences, struggles, and resilience during extreme adversity.
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