Picture a British-Nigerian storyteller who’s shaking up journalism and literature with wit and wisdom—meet Yomi Adegoke! Born in 1991 in East London, this multi-award-winning journalist and author has become a cultural force, tackling race, feminism, and pop culture with authenticity. From her bestselling book Slay In Your Lane to her gripping debut novel The List, Adegoke’s work resonates with readers worldwide, earning her a spot on Forbes 30 Under 30.
With a knack for blending sharp commentary with relatable storytelling, Adegoke has carved a unique space in contemporary literature. Her journey from a law student to a literary star is as inspiring as her words—let’s dive into her story!
The Making of Yomi Adegoke
Born in Canning Town, East London, and raised in Croydon, Yomi Adegoke grew up steeped in her Nigerian heritage. She studied law at the University of Warwick but felt the pull of storytelling. In 2013, she took a bold leap, founding Birthday Magazine, a publication for Black teenage girls that tackled race, feminism, and pop culture. This early venture showcased her passion for amplifying marginalized voices, setting the stage for her illustrious career.
Adegoke’s journalism career kicked off with internships at outlets like The Croydon Guardian and The Telegraph. She soon became a multimedia producer at Channel 4 News and a columnist for The Guardian and British Vogue, where her incisive takes on social issues gained widespread acclaim. Her ability to weave personal experience with cultural critique made her a standout voice.
Yomi Adegoke’s Unforgettable Stories
Adegoke’s literary breakthrough came in 2018 with Slay In Your Lane: The Black Girl Bible, co-authored with Elizabeth Uviebinené. This empowering guide for Black British women, featuring interviews with trailblazers like Malorie Blackman and Denise Lewis, became a Sunday Times bestseller. Its candid exploration of work, education, and media representation struck a chord, inspiring a podcast and a journal to continue the conversation.
In 2023, Adegoke debuted her novel The List, a gripping tale of a journalist whose fiancé is named on an anonymous online list of abusers. This instant Sunday Times bestseller, now being adapted for TV by HBO, A24, and the BBC, dives into the complexities of social media, #MeToo, and cancel culture. Adegoke’s storytelling is bold yet nuanced, blending thriller elements with social commentary.
She also co-edited Loud Black Girls, an anthology of essays by Black British women, amplifying new voices on topics from activism to cultural identity. Adegoke’s style—accessible, thought-provoking, and laced with humor—makes her work both entertaining and impactful, cementing her as a literary changemaker.
Why Yomi Adegoke Matters
Yomi Adegoke’s influence extends beyond the page. Her work has sparked vital conversations about race, gender, and representation, particularly for Black British women. Recognized as one of London’s most influential people by the Evening Standard and honored with awards like the Groucho Maverick and Marie Claire Future Shaper, she’s reshaping cultural narratives. Her storytelling empowers readers to navigate a complex world with confidence and clarity.
As a trustee for Arts Emergency and an ambassador for the Eve Appeal, Adegoke’s commitment to social good shines. Her ability to bridge journalism, literature, and activism makes her a role model for aspiring writers and a beacon of change in a digital age.
- Born: September 25, 1991, Canning Town, East London
- Key Works: Slay In Your Lane (2018), Loud Black Girls (2020), The List (2023)
- Awards: Forbes 30 Under 30 (2021), Groucho Maverick, Marie Claire Future Shaper
- Fun Fact: Her novel The List was a Good Morning America Book Club pick!
Ready to dive into Yomi Adegoke’s vibrant world? Grab The List or Slay In Your Lane and get swept away by her bold, brilliant storytelling!