Bauder Book Talk 2026: Reimagining the Future with Nnedi Okorafor

Nnedi Okorafor is a global leader of African-futurist literature, which centers African cultures, histories, and identities as a way to envision futures shaped by those perspectives. She is widely recognized as a leading voice in speculative fiction through her acclaimed novels, graphic novels, and work for Marvel. Okorafor embodies this year’s Bauder Lecture theme of Reimagining the Future because her stories challenge readers to think beyond the world as it currently exists to consider what could be possible when culture, technology, imagination, and innovation come together. Her work encourages students to see themselves as creators of the future rather than simply observers of it.

With African-futurism, she offers possibilities that move beyond familiar Western visions of tomorrow. Her books explore how technology, climate, migration, identity, disability, and traditions can intersect in unexpected ways. Okorafor consistently expands literary boundaries, inviting readers to imagine new and different futures shaped by voices that have too often been left out of the story.

A New York Times bestselling author, her honors include the Wole Soyinka Prize for Literature, Nebula, World Fantasy, Locus, Eisner, and multiple Hugo and Lodestar awards. Born in the United States to Nigerian/Igbo immigrants, Okorafor draws deeply from African cultures to create captivating worlds, unforgettable characters, and powerful, evocative stories. She holds a PhD in literature and two Master’s degrees in journalism and literature.

Bauder Book Talks is made possible by a generous gift from Dr. Lillian Bauder, a community leader and Columbia resident. HCLS presents an annual endowed author event for under-served students in grades 6-8 attending public middle schools in Columbia with high percentages of African American and BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) students. Authors and titles selected are high-interest and high-quality on topics of social issues, equity, and related matters. Students have the opportunity to hear from and engage with the author. The event honors the memory of Don Bauder, late husband of Dr. Lillian Bauder and a champion of civil rights and social justice causes.

* ASL interpretation provided. Registration is required for every attendee. Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis with the exception of reserved seats for bussed HCPSS staff and students. Additional standing room is available once all seats are occupied.