Baroness Lola Young: Inside the House of Lords

Baroness Lola Young, a pioneering voice in British public life and one of the first Black women members of the House of Lords, shares her moving new memoir, Eight Weeks, in this special event at Folkestone.

Baroness Young’s story begins with a childhood marked by instability — moved between foster placements and children's homes in North London from the age of eight weeks until she turned eighteen. In her memoir, she candidly reflects on how these experiences shaped her character and fuelled her drive to effect change.

In Eight Weeks, Baroness Young explores the resilience it took to overcome early adversity and to rise as a prominent advocate for social justice, equality and the arts. Her narrative is one of courage, transformation and an unwavering commitment to breaking down barriers, making her one of the most respected figures in British public life.

The event will be chaired by Lord Paul Boateng, another trailblazer who made history as the first person of African descent to serve in a British cabinet. With a distinguished career spanning law and politics, Lord Boateng has long been a force for positive change, addressing crucial issues from housing and healthcare to racial equality. His life experience and pioneering contributions provide a fitting and enriching backdrop for this discussion.

Together, Baroness Young and Lord Boateng bring unique perspectives on resilience, ambition and social change. Join us for a radical evening, as these two influential figures share insights into their lives, challenges and the tenacity required to redefine history. This is an unmissable opportunity to witness an inspiring exchange between two respected public figures.

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Folkestone Book Festival is our annual celebration of books, ideas, reading and writing in many magical forms. This year's festival has been curated by award-winning author and journalist Sophie Haydock. Sophie is our new Curator: Books, Ideas and Community.

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This year's festival is for everyone and we want to make it possible for more people than ever before to be able to come together and enjoy a packed festival. To make this possible we have introduced a £5 ticket. This is a no questions asked ticket for those that may be struggling to afford events and performances.

Or grab a festival pass and enjoy the whole festival for just £140. Click here to book your festival pass

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We thank our sponsors Eurotunnel, Friends of the Folkestone Book Festival and our Education Partner Canterbury Christ Church University for making this year's festival possible.

Creative Folkestone is also supported by Arts Council England, Folkestone and Hythe District Council, Kent County Council and The Roger De Haan Charitable Trust.