Writing Non-Fiction – with
Paula Akpan
Learn about the craft of non-fiction writing with historian, author and journalist Paula Akpan.
From how to plan out your manuscript through to the process of editing and refining, Paula will share the lessons learned from publishing her first book and a decade of journalism writing.
How much time should you set aside on a daily basis? How can you juggle writing and other work? How do you look after yourself while working on painful or difficult non-fiction topics? Get answers to your questions and more.
About the tutor
Paula Akpan is a historian, journalist and author. Her writing has appeared in British Vogue, Teen Vogue, The Independent, The i Paper, VICE, GAY TIMES, The Bookseller, DIVA Magazine, i-D and more. Her essays have featured in Loud Black Girls, The Queer Bible and The Black History Book.
Her debut book, When We Ruled: The Rise and Fall of Twelve African Queens and Warriors, was published by Trapeze in 2025 and selected as a Book of the Year by BBC History Magazine and History Today.
About First Tuesday Writers
First Tuesday Writers is here to keep your writing fresh. Taking place on the first Tuesday of every month, each 90 minute session offers a deep dive into a writer’s creative world – designed to challenge and energise you, and lead you to new creative discoveries.
Every writer and every form of writing has something unique that we can learn and put to use in our own work. These workshops are all opportunities to learn from radically diverse writers – including poets, bloggers, crime writers and much more. Drop in for one or two events or sign up to them all: either way, you’ll leave buzzing, and ready to do your best and most innovative work.
Low cost places available
We believe the price of our courses should never be a barrier to your learning. If you are unable to pay for a place on this event, contact us to apply for a bursary place.