South Asian Heritage Month
Celebration of writingSaturday, 19th July 2025, Normanton Library, Derby
St Augustine’s Community Centre
Almond St
Derby
DE23 6LX
Join us as we celebrate the last day of South Asian Heritage Month at Normanton Library.
The day will feature a free writing workshop in the afternoon, with poet, Jay Sandhu.
And in the evening there will be spoken word, music and open mic slots, with readings and performances from poet Jay Sandhu and award winning punjabi bhangra and hip hop producer Tru Skool.
Hosted by writer Priya Gill and comedian Ishi Khan, the event will celebrate writing with South Asian roots. Tickets to the evening event are £3 (or free if you have a Derby City library card).
Please note – the events will be held in the upstairs space at Normanton Library which are accessed via stairs. If you have any accessibility issues, please email So progs@writingeastmidlands.co.uk
Jay Sandhu Writing Workshop 3-5pm – FREE
Ever wanted to take your poems from the page to the mic? This workshop’s all about turning your written words into killer performances—think playing with rhythm, rocking some bold gestures, and finding the swagger in your voice. We’ll mess around with pacing, tone, and even stage presence (no fancy skills needed!), then wrap up with a chance to test-drive your new-and-improved spoken word in a fun, no-pressure space. Time to make those poems pop! Sign up using the button above.
Evening Celebration 7pm for 7:30pm start – £3
If you would like to perform at the evening event, you can select this when registering on the button above.
Meet the evening performers
Jay Sandhu
Tru Skool
Priya Gill
HOST
Priya found her voice during her tenure as Deputy Youth Mayor of Derby. Being able to help young people is something she has always been passionate about. Having finished undergraduate studies in linguistics and creative writing, she hopes to use her skills and knowledge to inspire and motivate people to express their creativity.
Ishi Khan
HOST
Ishi is an internationally acclaimed and multi-award-nominated British comedian who has been making audiences laugh since birth! She emerged from her mother crying, surrounded by laughing. Whether performing at major festivals, headlining at packed comedy clubs, or supporting industry giants, Ishi’s unique voice and energy have earned her a loyal following.
With thanks to Normanton Library for providing the venue.
