Akan Books Announced as Headline Sponsor for The Diverse Book Awards 2025
The Diverse Book Awards (DBAs) is thrilled to announce Akan Books as the headline sponsor for the 2025 awards, marking an exciting new chapter in championing underrepresented voices in publishing. Described as ‘one of the UK’s leading book prizes’ by Waterstones, The Diverse Book Awards is currently open for nominations until 31st March 2025.
Founded by author, broadcaster, and diversity advocate June Sarpong, Akan Books is a trailblazing imprint with a mission to amplify unheard voices and share untold stories. Their partnership with The Diverse Book Awards is a perfect synergy, as both organisations are committed to removing barriers, celebrating diverse talent, and ensuring that voices from marginalised communities are seen, heard, and valued.
June Sarpong said:
“I am delighted that Akan Books will sponsor The Diverse Book Awards in 2025. Our aim at Akan is to change the world, one book at a time, and The Diverse Book Awards shares our goals of shining a light on voices that may otherwise be unheard or overlooked. I am excited for our partnership to bring a wide range of writers from underrepresented communities to as many readers as possible, and to showcase and celebrate their talent.”
Abiola Bello and Helen Lewis, Co-Founders of The Diverse Book Awards, said:
“We are over the moon that Akan Books, founded by the iconic June Sarpong, are our headline sponsor this year. The Diverse Book Awards is proud to support under-represented writers, and Akan Books is specifically targeting three key demographics that we believe need way more representation in books: authors from ethnic minority backgrounds, authors who identify as working class, and authors with disabilities. Akan Books perfectly complements our mission here at The Diverse Book Awards and proudly sit alongside our category sponsors: Peters, Madeleine Milburn Agency, Sparx, and Renaissance Learning.”
Since its inception six years ago, The Diverse Book Awards has been dedicated to recognising the best diverse books published in the UK, celebrating stories that reflect the richness of the world we live in. With Akan Books as the headline sponsor, the awards will continue to expand their impact, championing inclusivity and broadening access to literature that resonates with a wide range of readers.
Seeking new talent across fiction and non-fiction, Akan Books will provide a platform for writers who have compelling stories to tell but lack the resources or industry know-how to get published. Submissions are open, and you can find more information about Akan Books at akanbooks.co.uk
