Advocate - by Lennina Ofori (Hardcover)

Book Synopsis

Lennina Ofori is a force of nature. A teen mother, a supportive older sister, a PhD student, a support system, a working woman, a survivor, above all, she is an Advocate. She has spent her life working for those who do not have a voice, for those relegated to the margins, and in this book, she lends her voice to them.

Starting with her own life story, from her beautiful family, to her hardest struggles, Ofori opens the door to intersections that are familiar to many: race, class and gender, and uses her expertise to explain and embolden readers to make active change in their own lives. Utilising expertise from across the globe, from the teachings of bell hooks to government reports, Ofori makes accessible topics that are so often ignored. From her unique perspective as a Black woman who has lived many lives, Ofori is a daring voice for change, and a voice for hope, in modern life.

Advocate is a tale of personal resistance, but also a manifesto for action. With great candour, wit and beautiful language, Ofori will call you to make change not just for your own sake, but for those in the margins.

From the Back Cover

'It is a hard truth that many people speak on varying issues within the margins, without themselves ever experiencing marginality or truly having empathy for those who have.

This is why I have been compelled to raise my voice from the margins.'

Advocate is a tale of personal resistance, but also a manifesto for action. With great candour, wit and beautiful language, Ofori will call you to make change not just for your own sake, but for those in the margins.

Review Quotes

Advocate offers vital and illuminating perspectives on various marginalised experiences, bringing rigour and insight to conversations that we, as a society, need to be having. I felt empowered and grateful to share in Lennina's story and lived experiences. Advocate is a book that is equally generous and insightful, putting much of modern British narratives into sharp perspective. Anyone with any interest in areas of social justice and the numerous intersections with identity needs to read this book. It's a gift. Highly recommended.--Jeffrey Boakye, author of Black, Listed and I Heard What You Said

About the Author

Lennina Ofori, a multi-award-winning DEI writer, researcher and educator, has steadfastly championed diversity, equality and inclusion for marginalised youth and adults throughout her career. With an MA in Theatre and the Criminal Justice System from the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama, Lennina is currently advancing her expertise through a Doctorate focused on Children and Young People Services, focusing on storytelling for systemic and social change. Her career is a testament to her passion for addressing and amending the disparities faced by marginalised communities through informed, creative and impactful storytelling, research and action.

A beacon in global, national, and community initiatives aimed at challenges such as workplace equity, social reform and community safety, Lennina uses her narrative prowess and rigorous research to challenge and change societal structures, fostering equity and understanding. As the founder of an indie production and social action research company, Lennina is focused on narratives and research that catalyse social justice, propelling discussions that lead to real change. As CEO and founder of a supported housing company, Lennina and her team provide looked-after children and 18+ care leavers with the guidance, skills and support they need to thrive as adults and build fulfilling, independent lives. Her work not only narrates a need for change but actively participates in the building of a more just and equitable society.