Alliance Française Port Harcourt hosted a two-day literary gathering for writers and storytellers in the city of Port Harcourt. The event was organized by Noisy Streetss in collaboration with Art in the Garden City. The event provided a vibrant platform for creative exchange, reflection, and celebration of storytelling.
DAY 1
Conversations on Local Narratives
The first day featured an engaging session led by Modupe Daramola, founder and Editor-in-Chief, who facilitated a thought-provoking discussion with writers in attendance. A key focus of her address was the urgent need for writers to document and amplify stories from their local environments.
She emphasized that while Lagos often dominates literary and media narratives about Nigeria, many other regions remain underrepresented and underexplored in mainstream storytelling. She therefore challenged participants to write more intentionally about their communities, cultures, and lived realities, thereby contributing to a richer and more diverse national narrative.
The session encouraged honest reflection, creative responsibility, and renewed commitment among attendees to tell authentic stories rooted in their immediate surroundings.
DAY 2
The second day adopted a more celebratory tone with a literary party that brought together writers, creatives, and literature enthusiasts. A highlight of the day was a talk session centered on the book “Ponmo Is a Bird That Has No Place in the Cultured Culinary Sky and Other Stories.”
One of the authors, Tezor Dedam, was present to engage with attendees and respond to questions related to the writing process, publishing realities, and the various challenges writers encounter. His insights offered practical guidance and encouragement to emerging storytellers.
Also present was Chantel Anyanwu, a digital entrepreneur, who shared valuable perspectives on social media influence, personal branding, and the role of digital platforms in amplifying creative work. Her contributions bridged the gap between traditional literary practice and modern digital visibility.
Overall, the two-day event was a resounding success. It fostered meaningful dialogue, inspired creative introspection, and strengthened connections within Port Harcourt’s literary community. The gathering concluded on a high note, leaving participants energized and motivated to continue shaping narratives from their unique cultural contexts.
Alliance Française Port Harcourt remains committed to supporting literary and cultural initiatives that promote creative expression and intellectual engagement within the community.