The Transforming Words Foundation (TTWF) welcomed poets, supporters and community leaders to Stephens House in Finchley on Saturday 31 October for the Black in White Poetry Competition 2026 Awards and Book Launch, an inspiring evening celebrating creativity, lived experiences and conversations about racism, unconscious bias and belonging.
The event featured a vibrant programme of poetry, live music and award presentations. Guests were treated to a powerful opening performance of Free Your Mind by The Murray Sisters, followed by remarks from the Deputy Mayor of Barnet, Councillor Humayune Khalick, recognising the importance of Black History Month and the role of the arts in building understanding across communities.
A highlight of the evening was the announcement of the winners of the 2026 Black in White Poetry Competition, which invited poets to share experiences and reflections on racism, microaggressions and unconscious bias. The competition featured two categories: Childhood and Workplace.
In the Childhood Category, first prize was awarded to Matt Blaize for Girl Q, with Norah Jane taking second place for Gnats, Please Go Away and Emily Bright receiving third prize for Childhood in Shades.
In the Workplace Category, Aeman Abbasi won first prize for Hide The Seams, followed by Larissa Ribeiro in second place for The Filter and Georgia Nicholson in third place for Guppies.
The evening also recognised a significant number of highly commended poets whose work impressed the judging panel and contributed to the exceptional standard of entries received this year.
A special moment came with the unveiling of TTWF’s latest anthology, Hide The Seams, featuring 45 poems by 37 poets. The collection brings together voices from across the competition and serves as a powerful exploration of identity, race, inclusion and shared humanity.
Guests also enjoyed readings from competition entrants and other attending poets, and a rap musical performance from Danny B The Airhead.
The Foundation extends its thanks to the judges, performers, volunteers, supporters, participating poets and all those who helped make the evening a success.
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Below are the links to the Kindle edition of ‘Hide the seams’ in the UK and USA on Amazon.