Hamdy and Land inspire students for Capital Crime

Authors Adam Hamdy, Ali Land and James Swallow were among the speakers addressing school children and their teachers about how to get into publishing.

The event on 2nd April was part of the Capital Crime Social Outreach Initiative, a collaboration between David Headley and Hamdy to help London students enter the writing and publishing world.

Capital Crime asked 10 state-funded schools to select two sixth-form students with interest and ability in creative writing. Those 20 students and their teachers were invited to attend a seminar evening in central London, where they heard from authors and professionals like Hodder publisher Ruth Tross and Goldsboro m.d. Headley.

Others who appeared included author Faridah Àbíké Íyímídé and Century and Arrow publisher Selina Walker. Speakers shared practical advice on how to build a sustainable, lucrative career in the industry.

The students have also been given passes to Capital Crime’s first festival in London at the Connaught. Held from 26th to 28th September, the event will feature David Baldacci, Robert Harris, Kate Mosse, Lynda La Plante, Peter James and Simon Mayo among others.

A spokesman said: “With more cuts than ever to creative programmes in schools and universities across the United Kingdom, Capital Crime wants to support the communities on their doorstep to ensure they do not miss out on the opportunity to meet leading industry professionals and authors.

“Capital Crime’s social outreach initiative hopes to inspire, educate and offer hope to aspiring talents.”