Discover the Story Behind Sajid Javid

Growing up in 1970s Rochdale as the son of a Pakistani immigrant father, Sajid Javid faced numerous challenges, from poverty and racism to the complexities of navigating multiple cultures. It was against this backdrop that he developed the drive and determination that would eventually propel him to the highest echelons of British politics. In his acclaimed memoir, The Colour of Home, Javid shares a deeply personal story of family, identity, ambition, and belonging, one that transcends the conventional boundaries of a political memoir.

On Sunday, 15 November 2026, Javid will discuss his memoir in a candid and compelling conversation at the Quarterhouse in Folkestone. This event will be chaired by Parul Bavishi, co-founder of London Writers' Salon, who brings a wealth of experience in helping writers find their voice and tell their stories. With her thoughtful and curious perspective, Bavishi is the ideal host for this conversation, which promises to delve into the intricacies of Javid's story and the themes that emerge from it.

The event is part of the Folkestone Book Festival, a vibrant celebration of stories, ideas, and conversation that takes place by the sea. This year's festival features over 60 events, showcasing a diverse range of writers, thinkers, and storytellers. The festival is curated by novelist Sophie Haydock and is part of the broader Folkestone is a Library initiative, which aims to make Folkestone one of the UK's most exciting literary destinations.

As Javid's conversation with Bavishi will undoubtedly reveal, his story is one of remarkable resilience and determination. From his early experiences of poverty and racism to his later successes in politics, Javid's narrative is a powerful exploration of what it means to find one's place in modern Britain. This event offers a unique opportunity to hear Javid's story firsthand and to gain insight into the experiences that have shaped him.

Tickets for this event are with the button beside the article. The Folkestone Book Festival is proudly supported by a range of organizations, including Eurotunnel, Canterbury Christ Church University, and the Friends of Folkestone Book Festival. With its commitment to making great conversations accessible to everyone, the festival offers a £5 Cost of Living Ticket for each event, available with no questions asked.