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The Sheffield culture guide written by in-the-know locals

Photos from Off the Shelf 2022

Autumn in Sheffield is pretty much synonymous with literary delights, as Off the Shelf Festival of Words hosts a programme packed with talks and readings from world renowned authors and poets, famous folk off the telly, and a few knowledgable locals.

Each year, the festival absorbs audiences in topics ranging from pop music to politics, fine art to feminism.

Look out for our top picks from the 2025 Off the Shelf programme in the coming months.

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Warda Yassin

A British-Somali poet born and raised in Sheffield. Winner of the 2018 New Poets Prize, Warda is dedicated to her craft and encouraging young people to reap the benefits of writing.

Spirit of Independence Film Festival

Fri. 26 September 2025 — Sun. 28 September 2025

The Light, The Moor, S1 4PF

A celebration of fiercely independent filmmaking, showcasing raw, bold and passionate films from around the world.

Yusuf Yellow

A lyricist reflecting on authenticity, masculinity, existential angst and the power of creativity, especially as expressed through rap.

Akeem Balogun

Writer Akeem Balogun talks to Annalisa Toccara about his short story collection about human survival, and why he co-founded independent publishing company Okapi Books.