Source: Birmingham Lord Mayor
Image Credit: Janet Douglas (Feed My Creative)
Birmingham honoured the life and legacy of trailblazing poet Benjamin Zephaniah this week during a ceremony at Birmingham City University’s Benjamin Zephaniah Building, where his City of Birmingham Medal was formally presented.
The award was accepted posthumously on his behalf by his brother Tippa Napthali and his widow, Qian Zephaniah on 11 March 2026. Benjamin is the inaugural recipient of the medal, which has been designed by students at BCU’s renowned School of Jewellery.
Born in Handsworth, Benjamin started performing poetry at demonstrations and youth gatherings and his writing often responded directly to events. He was heavily influenced by Jamaican music and poetry and released several albums, as well as appearing on radio and television including his role as Jeremiah “Jimmy” Jesus in BBC drama Peaky Blinders.
Proud to call himself a ‘son of Birmingham’, Benjamin is recognised not only for his varied and pioneering career as a writer, poet, actor and musician, but also for his charitable and community work.
The award also acknowledges his lasting influence on modern British culture and literature. His work features on the national curriculum and continues to inspire generations of writers, rappers and poets.
Benjamin’s brother, Tippa Naphtali said: “We are extremely proud that it is Benjamin’s city of birth that is making this award and are grateful to the City Council for supporting several memorial initiatives since his untimely passing in 2023. We are also extremely grateful to all the parties involved in making this event possible.”
The Lord Mayor of Birmingham, Councillor Zafar Iqbal MBE said: “From his groundbreaking poetry collections to his iconic role in Peaky Blinders, Benjamin Zephaniah was a trailblazer and is a much-missed son of Birmingham whose work continues to shape our cultural and literacy identity. Fittingly the first recipient of the City of Birmingham medal, he embodied the spirit and creativity of our city, and I was honoured to present his family and widow with this award as we came together to celebrate his remarkable life and career.”
Professor David Mba, Vice-Chancellor of BCU, said: “Benjamin Zephaniah’s voice was fearless and compassionate, challenging injustice and celebrating the diversity that defines Birmingham. It is especially meaningful for Birmingham City University to host this ceremony in the building that bears his name. That the medal has been designed by students from our School of Jewellery makes this tribute even more special, connecting the city, our university and the next generation of creative talent.”
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