Opal22 Arts and Edutainment, in partnership with the Stephen Lawrence Research Centre, recently launched its Culture Comics: Graphic Novel Competition.
This nationwide initiative invites young people aged 12–18 to unleash their creativity by crafting original stories and graphics. Through two thought-provoking prompts, the competition aims to explore young people’s perceptions of Black culture while offering an educational platform to celebrate its richness on a national scale.
The competition will be judged by Bobby Joseph, a pioneering comic creator and the UK’s first Comics Laureate of colour. Renowned for his iconic works, including Skank Magazine and Scotland Yardie, Bobby’s influence extends to academia, where his graphic novel became the first of its kind studied in an English Literature MA course at King’s College London. His inspiring storytelling makes him the perfect mentor for this competition.
Participants are being challenged to create original graphic stories inspired by themes relevant to today’s society.
For ages 12–15: Answer the prompt “Black Culture is…” Show us what Black culture means to you – whether it’s ancient mythology, unforgettable tales, or the funniest story you’ve ever heard. Let your imagination run wild!
For ages 16–18: Answer the question “Why Vote?” Show us why voting matters. From campaigning for a National Ice Cream Day to advocating meaningful political change – make your case with creativity!
There are a lot of rewards for successful entrants. The top 50 creators will attend an exclusive workshop with Comics Laureate Bobby Joseph in Leicester; have their submissions published in a Graphic Novel Anthology; and see their work displayed in a public exhibition in Leicester.
Founded in 2016, Opal22 emerged from a profound commitment to preserving Black history and heritage, striving to deliver the Black experience to the community with unwavering authenticity, creativity, and passion.
The Stephen Lawrence Research Centre (SLRC) drives forward conversations that shape and influence how we think about race and social justice. The SLRC honours the enduring legacy of Stephen Lawrence’s life and his family’s ongoing pursuit of justice by asking new questions, debating critical issues, raising awareness, and advocating to bring about positive change.
