Caleb Azumah Nelson

Caleb Azumah Nelson is a British Ghanaian writer and photographer whose debut novel, Open Water, has established him as one of the most compelling voices in contemporary literature. Set in South East London, where Nelson grew up, Open Water is a tender and profound exploration of love, identity, and Black creative expression. The novel has received widespread acclaim, winning the Costa First Novel Award and the British Book Awards’ Debut Fiction Book of the Year, among other honours. 

Nelson’s storytelling transcends the page; he is also an accomplished photographer and filmmaker. His ability to capture the nuances of human connection is evident in his upcoming adaptation of Open Water for the BBC, where he will serve as lead writer, director, and executive producer. His work highlights the richness of South East London’s communities and celebrates underrepresented voices with authenticity and grace. 

A champion of Black creative expression, Nelson’s achievements align closely with Goldsmiths’ commitment to diversity and innovation. His evocative prose and visual artistry continue to inspire audiences worldwide, and we are proud to honour this remarkable artist with an Honorary Fellowship for his contributions to arts and culture. 

Set in South East London, where Nelson grew up, Open Water is a tender and profound exploration of love, identity, and Black creative expression. The novel has received widespread acclaim, winning the Costa First Novel Award and the British Book Awards’ Debut Fiction Book of the Year, among other honours. 

Nelson’s storytelling transcends the page; he is also an accomplished photographer and filmmaker. His ability to capture the nuances of human connection is evident in his upcoming adaptation of Open Water for the BBC, where he will serve as lead writer, director, and executive producer. His work highlights the richness of South East London’s communities and celebrates underrepresented voices with authenticity and grace. 

A champion of Black creative expression, Nelson’s achievements align closely with Goldsmiths’ commitment to diversity and innovation. His evocative prose and visual artistry continue to inspire audiences worldwide, and we are proud to honour this remarkable artist with an Honorary Fellowship for his contributions to arts and culture.