source: Birmingham Lord Mayor

first published: 12 March 2026

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 Naphtali 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.

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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