Leila Aboulela Awarded PEN Pinter Prize for Advocacy in Literature

Leila Aboulela, the acclaimed Sudanese author, has been honored with the prestigious PEN Pinter Prize for her literary contributions that address themes of migration, faith, and the experiences of Muslim women. The announcement was made during English PEN's summer party, held on July 9, 2025, in London. Aboulela, who has resided in Aberdeen since 1990, expressed her surprise and gratitude, stating that the recognition is significant for a Muslim Sudanese immigrant writer who explores the nuances of faith and secular tolerance in her works.

The PEN Pinter Prize, named after the late British playwright Harold Pinter, recognizes authors who demonstrate an unwavering commitment to unveiling the truth of societal issues. Aboulela’s literary portfolio includes six novels and two short story collections, with her latest work, "River Spirit," published in 2023. This prize not only celebrates her artistry but also highlights her role in amplifying voices often marginalized in the literary world.

Judges praised Aboulela’s ability to center the lives of Muslim women in her narratives, describing her writing as “a balm, a shelter, and an inspiration.” Nadifa Mohamed, a fellow novelist and judge, highlighted how Aboulela’s work offers rich perspectives on contemporary issues, stating, “In a world seemingly on fire, her writing is a necessary refuge.”

The significance of this award extends beyond personal accolades; it underscores the importance of diverse narratives in literature. Ruth Borthwick, chair of English PEN, noted that Aboulela’s recognition could potentially broaden her readership, encouraging a wider understanding of migration and faith experiences. Borthwick emphasized the hope that Aboulela’s stories will open minds to new possibilities in a time of global uncertainty.

Aboulela is set to receive her award on October 10, 2025, at the British Library in London. During this ceremony, she will also announce her selection for the PEN Pinter Writer of Courage award, which honors authors who actively defend freedom of expression, often at great personal risk.

Previous winners of the PEN Pinter Prize include renowned authors such as Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and Salman Rushdie, reflecting the award's longstanding commitment to celebrating literary excellence and advocacy for free expression. Aboulela's win serves as a reminder of the transformative power of literature to reflect and address critical societal issues, particularly in the context of migration and faith, which remain pressing topics in today’s global landscape.

As the literary community celebrates this milestone, Aboulela's recognition may inspire a new wave of writers to explore complex identities and experiences, further enriching the dialogue surrounding these vital themes in contemporary literature.