– Spirit of Adventure –
Damian presented the inaugural Tom Grass Spirit of Adventure writing prize on Thursday, June 5, 2025 as he read an excerpt from Praise Ukpai’s winning story, Where the Sky Ends. The Tom Grass Spirit of Adventure Literary Prize is a writing prize for emerging writers and dedicated to celebrating the spirt of adventure of Tom Grass, a multi-talented writer, avid reader, and fearless traveler.
Tom Grass was a storyteller and a brilliant maverick with a unique sense of adventure. He travelled the world, on foot, bicycle and motorbike, and lived for long periods in Africa and India.
He studied History at Oxford and wrote in many forms, from novels, to screenplays, to advertising copy, to hundreds of powerfully observed and often funny letters, emails and messages to friends.
Winner Praise Ukpai is a bold and evocative writer whose work explores feminism, identity, and African cultural narratives with clarity and heart. She writes to enlighten, challenge, and inspire, blending personal stories with sharp social commentary. By crafting thought-provoking essays and powerful scripts, Praise brings a fresh, authentic voice to every piece. Her writing is both a mirror and a megaphone—reflecting lived experiences while amplifying the voices of women and underrepresented communities. She represented Nigeria.
Runner-ups were Jay McKenzie for Bucket who represented Australia and Laura Hall for And Where Do You See Yourself in Five Years’ Time who represented Denmark.
Read more about The Tom Grass non-profit foundation here.