Zodwa Nyoni

Zodwa Nyoni is a Lecturer in Scriptwriting at Manchester Metropolitan University. Born in Zimbabwe and raised in Leeds, her work explores black diasporic identities, spirituality, migration, and LGBTQ+ rights through theatre, film, and radio. She has produced acclaimed plays such as BOI BOI IS DEAD (winner of the Channel 4 Playwrights’ Scheme 2014) and THE DARKEST PART OF THE NIGHT (shortlisted for the Alfred Fagon and George Devine Awards). Her writing often addresses systemic injustices, particularly in immigration and asylum policies.

Her research focuses on the intersection of race, class, and queer identity, reflected in her publications and contributions to anthologies like Black British Queer Plays and Practitioners. Nyoni also serves as a dramaturg and mentor, working with organizations such as Fifth Word Theatre and Tiata Fahodzi. Her recent projects include commissions for Netflix’s CASTLEVANIA: NOCTURNE and an opera for the Buxton International Festival.

Awards include recognition from The Independent (UK) for THE DARKEST PART OF THE NIGHT as one of 2022’s best plays. She has taught across institutions like the University of Manchester and Leeds Beckett University, emphasizing creative writing and playmaking. Nyoni’s work bridges academic and artistic realms, addressing critical social issues through narrative innovation.