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York Juba anthology now in its fourth year

Posted on 24 February 2015

A collaborative creative writing anthology set up by English student Anthea Gordon between the Universities of York and Juba (South Sudan) is now in its fourth year.

The York Juba anthology was created in 2011, following South Sudan’s independence after years of civil wars, and after Anthea Gordon, the first Editor of the anthology, personally visited the University of Juba. She was shocked at the pitiful amount of resources there, as well as a lack of a creative outlet for the students there – considering their rich history and turbulent personal experiences. On her return to York she worked with staff and students, here and in Juba, to create the first anthology, with the theme of ‘Change’ – to signify the change in opportunities happening in Juba.

The York Juba anthology involves creative writing pieces from students at York and students at Juba that fall under a specific theme. This year, to continue giving new outlets of creativity, the editors will include artwork for the theme of ‘Unity.’ Said Deputy Editor Rhianna Johnson, “As a committee we all assist in the editing process, dividing them between us, ensuring we all get a range of submissions to read from both universities. With the submissions from Juba, we try to never significantly alter their writing, only try and change certain words so the message is perfectly put across – as English is not their first language.”

This anthology gives students both here and in Juba a chance to fully express themselves, with the students in Juba able to share their experiences of a country and culture so different to what we are used to. It has increased the presence of creative writing at the University of Juba and ensures that their voices can be heard. It is also sold in a local bookshop in Juba, providing local business and showing a real and physical result of their hard work.

In York, also, the anthology gives students the opportunity to express themselves in a supportive and encouraging environment. Said Rhianna, “We try to give as few limitations as possible, hoping to give a chance to all to express themselves without boundary and share their stories with people halfway across the world.”