Onyi Nwabineli is an inspirational Nigerian British lady who cofounded Surviving Out Loud, a fund that provides financial support for survivors of sexual assault; founded Black Pens, a UK-based writing retreat for Black womxn; and is an acclaimed author.
Onyi was part of a small group of UK-based black women who set up Surviving Out Loud to provide practical financial support to women survivors of rape, sexual assault, predatory behaviour, violence and coercion, who are often subsequently threatened with legal retaliation (gagging orders, threats to sue for defamation etc), violence, blackmail and isolation.
In 2022 Onyi set up Black Pens to provide a valuable, unique opportunity for aspiring Black women writers in the UK to come together; build community; learn from each other and industry experts; rest, relax and work; in a safe and encouraging environment. Onyi’s successful first Black Pens retreat in 2022 also provided attendees with the chance to access opportunities that might not have been available or accessible to them otherwise.
Onyi’s debut book has already received high praise from the likes of Derek Owusu (a British writer and podcaster) and Bolu Babalola (herself an acclaimed British author, screenwriter and journalist.