Croydon author Leodara Darlington launches awards to support Black writers

Leodara Darlington, a 33-year-old author and publicist from Croydon, is launching new initiatives to support writers from underrepresented backgrounds. Her efforts are focused on dismantling barriers within the publishing industry and promoting diverse voices, with a particular emphasis on young Black writers.

Debut Novel Success

Darlington's debut book, 'The Exes', has achieved significant recognition. It was chosen as a Good Morning America Book Club pick and has been shortlisted for the McDermid Debut Award 2026. This success has provided a platform for her to address systemic issues in publishing.

She told MyLondon that she feels passionately about Croydon, her home, despite its reputation. Darlington stated that she wants to give back to the community by sharing her expertise and inspiring the next generation of writers. Her mother, who was a teacher, instilled in her a love for reading and writing and would have been delighted by her career path, Darlington said.

Breaking Down Barriers

Darlington has observed that writers from underrepresented backgrounds, particularly young Black writers, often face challenges in accessing the industry. She aims to help by explaining industry processes and providing guidance on pitching stories. She believes that the system needs to actively promote more diverse voices.

To achieve this, Darlington has launched her own novel awards for underrepresented writers. The winner will receive mentorship from publishing agencies. She also plans to host a creative matchmaking event named Never One Thing. This event will feature a panel of experts from various creative fields, including actors, authors, musicians, and directors.

The winning creative match from the Never One Thing event will receive seed funding to develop their project and personal mentorship from Darlington. She explained that diversity in publishing should not be feared but seen as a way to level the playing field, supporting writers from various backgrounds, including working-class individuals, carers, and those with disabilities.

Darlington actively engages with organisations like the London Writers Centre, giving talks and participating in panels to share her knowledge and bridge the gap in understanding how the publishing world operates.