AKEMNJI NDIFORNYEN
Sketch writer • Script Writer • Actor
Akemnji Ndifornyen is an award-winning writer, known for creating and producing the BBC comedy Famalam. The former Hackney schoolboy has built a multidisciplinary career spanning writing and performance, while creating space for Black British storytelling in comedy.
Akemnji grew up in Hackney and developed an interest in performance from a young age. His parents encouraged him to attend a Saturday drama club, which he has described as an important part of his childhood, giving him a creative outlet and the opportunity to explore different forms of performance.
Alongside acting, Akemnji developed his skills as a writer through working on The Javone Prince Show before creating Famalam, a BBC Three sketch comedy series rooted in the Black British experience that brought together a diverse group of emerging performers. Akemnji’s cultural contribution earned him the 2019 BAFTA Breakthrough Talent award as the show’s writer, composer and producer.
Why Hackney Matters
Growing up in the borough, he was introduced to performance through local creative opportunities that allowed him to explore dance, music, acting and improvisation from a young age. His journey reflects the borough's important work of giving young people access to spaces where they can experiment, develop confidence and discover their creative potential.
Did you know?
When creating and co-writing the BBC comedy-thriller Black parts of the series was filmed in Hackney Marshes, he described the location as particularly meaningful because he is a “Hackney kid”.