Get to know: Screenwriter, blogger and east London native Chinwendu
Chinwendu Akus is a writer from Ilford, East London, working at the intersection of academia and humour. Always conversational, her work is honest, funny and vulnerable in equal measure. Shaped by a working-class upbringing and grounded in the importance of community, she is on a mission to archive, document, and capture stories for the generations that come after.
Her writing spans the deeply personal and the incisive, from a moving piece on the death of Jason Arday, to sharp reflections on class identity, tracing what it means to still feel working class after her family's move to a lower middle class neighbourhood.
We spoke with her about creativity, inspiration and how they feel about the future…
How would you describe yourself and your work?
I’m pretty laid back, just happy to be here. My work? I’d say it’s a mix of diary, critical theory and jokes. That’s what makes it unique, because it’s purely conversational.
Where did you grow up, and how did that shape you?
I grew up in Ilford, East London. It’s predominantly working class and was pretty run down. People kinda stuck to themselves, but there was always a community for everyone. It made me want a better life for East Londoners, as most of the time people always just wanted out.
What is the mission / intention of your work?
To archive and document. It’s key for any generation – something to pass on to the adults of tomorrow.
What's something people wouldn't know about you from following you online?
I’ve been playing regional basketball since I was 14 years old. I don’t talk about it much, but it’s probably one of my biggest accomplishments, as well as school, sixth form, university – I’ve done it all.
What makes you tick?
People. Everyone has a story to tell, something to say. Everyone’s life is a story to be shared – and if I have the opportunity, I’d like to help share it.
When do you feel most creative?
I feel the most creative when I’ve gone somewhere! Or when I’m processing my feelings about recent events. It allows me to get vulnerable, which is something everyone’s looking for.
Who or what is inspiring you right now?
I’d say this guy called ‘abluffersguide’ on Instagram. Seeing his work made me realise that there’s no harm in putting your own stuff out there.
Three things you are reading, watching or doing right now that you'd recommend?
The Sopranos, Boys Don’t Cry by Malorie Blackman, and going on the slowest walks possible – they all help with engaging how you feel about things.
Are you optimistic or pessimistic about the future?
Neutral. The world is a tough place indeed, and I often wonder if things will ever be put right in my lifetime. But I’m not the first person to think that. I also think that joy is both abundant and subjective. You look for it, you’ll find it. So, my answer is, neutral.