November Itoju Social: A literary open mic and book swap

Theme: For the Love of African Literature

Please read the full event description for important event details and registration requirements.

Is there a book, poem, story, or piece of African literature that has stayed with you?

For our November Itoju Social, we’re gathering for an afternoon centred on African literature, storytelling, and community.

We will open the gathering with a selected piece of African Literature and guide the room through a conversation and then we will will open the floor for others to share.

Attendees will be invited to read a short excerpt from a book, an essay or poetry, an original piece, talk about a book or author you love, or share reflections on what African literature means to you.

Attendees are also welcome to simply listen and take in what others bring to the room.

If you would like to participate in the book swap, bring a book that you’re ready to pass along. The book has to be by a Black author.

✨ Here’s What to Expect

An opening reading and conversation facilitated by Aanu

A low-pressure literary open mic

Engaging, facilitated conversations

An optional book swap

Time to connect, socialize, and discover new pieces of African Literature

A cozy gathering

💡 Good to Know

There is no required reading or preparation before the event

Sharing during the open mic is completely optional. Listening is participation too

This is a free, community event. Come as you are

The event will run for four hours, including a break and dedicated time for the book swap and socializing

Who its for: African, African Diaspora folks, and lovers of African Literature. This includes current and former African international students

Transportation support is available for international students in Ontario. Indicate if you need assistance

Come ready to listen, share if you feel moved, discover something new, and spend time with the Itoju community.

🎟️ Spaces are limited, so register asap! Please see notes below

Refundable Attendance Deposit

To help us plan for refreshments, materials, and a comfortable experience for everyone, a $10 refundable attendance deposit is required to confirm your spot at this event.

How it works:

Register for the event through Luma. Your registration will initially be pending approval.

Send a $10 e-Transfer to [email protected] within 48 hours of registering. Please include your full name and the event name in the transfer message.

Once we receive your deposit, we'll approve your registration and you'll receive your confirmation through Luma.

Attend the event and receive your full $10 deposit back when you arrive

Cancellations and refunds

If your plans change, please cancel your registration at least 48 hours (2 days) before the event. Deposits will be refunded for cancellations made before this deadline.

Late cancellations and no-shows are not eligible for refunds, except in exceptional circumstances (such as illness and medical emergencies, family or personal emergencies or unexpected circumstances beyond your control)

We understand that financial circumstances differ. If the deposit presents a barrier to your participation, please reach out to us at [email protected] so we can explore an alternative.

What happens to unrefunded deposits?

Any deposits that are not refunded due to late cancellations or no-shows will go directly back into Itoju's monthly socials, helping us cover refreshments, materials, and other costs associated with creating accessible and engaging community gatherings.

If Itoju cancels the event, all deposits will be fully refunded.

Thank you for helping us make these gatherings accessible, intentional, and enjoyable for our community. We look forward to seeing you!