Cassava Republic Press launches Being Black in Publishing forum and internship

Cassava Republic Press has launched Being Black in Publishing, a month-long initiative aimed at encouraging the entry of African and Afro-diasporic individuals into the publishing industry.

Being Black in Publishing features a forum designed to connect experienced Black publishing professionals from across the world with aspiring young individuals interested in a publishing career. The programme will provide participants with insights, skills and networks, and is free and open for African and Afro-diasporic individuals from across the world. 

The initiative is part of the press’ ongoing mission to address the underrepresentation of African and Afro-diasporic voices and perspectives in the industry. It will be centred on sharing expertise, exploring career pathways and facilitating networking for participants. 

Publishing experts in the forum include Thabiso Mahlape, publisher at Black Bird Books, Anwuli Ojogwu, publisher at Narrative Landscape, and Ebyan Egal, studio manager at Penguin Random House. Illustrator Leah Jacobs Gordon is also taking part, as are Natalie Jerome, literary agent at Originate Agency, and Layla Mohamed, editor at Cassava Republic, among others.

As part of the forum, young people based in Nigeria can apply for a three-month internship starting in January 2024. The internship programme is aimed at allowing young publishing professionals to gain practical experience in various aspects of the industry, including editorial, marketing and sales. Partners in this programme include Nigerian publishers and booksellers Masobe Books, Narrative Landscape Press, Rasmed and Roving Heights.

Applications for the internship program will be open throughout the month of October and successful applicants will be announced in December 2023.

Editorial assistant Boluwatito Sanusi said: "While I always knew that I wanted to work with books, all I had at my disposal was Google. Navigating the intricate world of publishing from Ibadan, Nigeria, it felt like I was feeling my way through the arcane dark web of publishing.

"After a year of interning at Cassava Republic, I felt that there was a need for a simpler and more accessible path for young bookish people to get a sense of career opportunities in publishing. So, I pitched this forum to my boss who enthusiastically embraced the idea.

"I am happy to assemble this impressive lineup of Black publishing professionals who will generously share their expertise, shedding light on the various aspects of the publishing sector and providing guidance for those wishing to chart their course within it."