Scientists worked out the maximum age a person can actually live to after conducting study

Science and Health

In his script for the 1966 film A Man for All Seasons, screenwriter Robert Bolt stated: “Death comes for us all; even at our birth, death does but stand aside a little.”And you know what? He’s pretty spot on because the only thing that’s certain in life is death… and taxes, as the idiom goes.While eating a well-balanced diet, not smoking cigarettes and enjoying an active lifestyle may potentially increase your life expectancy, death does eventually come knocking.But thanks to medical advancements and documented economic growth the modern-day human’s life span is much longer than our ancestors.The Office for National Statistics claims life expectancy at birth in the UK from 2020 to 2022 was 78.6 years for males and 82.6 years for females.This beats out the US, where it sits at around 74.8 years and 80.2 years for males and females, respectively.But just because there’s an average doesn’t mean there aren’t anomalies, just look at Jeanne Calment.The Frenchwoman was at the ripe old age of 122 when she died in 1997, making her a supercentenarian – a person who is 110 years or older.While most people get nowhere near that, the question of just how long the human body theoretically can survive is one of science’s most pressing questions.Scientists believe they know how long the human body can survive (Getty Stock Image)In 2022, researchers from Singapore biotech company Gero and the Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center in Buffalo, New York, studied human resilience and the body’s ability to recover from damage.Using AI, they combed through the medical data of hundreds of thousands of volunteers to estimate a human’s maximum lifespan.Factoring in age, illness and lifestyle factors, they found that somewhere between 120 and 150 years, the human body’s ability to recover completely gave out, meaning that a person couldn’t really survive beyond then.Other studies into the science of ageing suggest the record for the world’s oldest person will probably be broken again by 2100, but not everyone’s going to be making it past Calment’s grand old age.Meanwhile, drugs which could try to slow down the body’s ageing process and theoretically let someone live for up to 200 years are being tested, but the idea that we’re all about to live to 200 is a long way off.The oldest person to ever live managed to make it to their 122nd birthday (Getty Stock Image)Of course, you could always hope that space travel advances to the point where you could move to another planet we discovered where people could live over 3,000 years.Although, that’s because that planet has much shorter years, orbiting its sun once every 2.7 Earth days.While you could technically call that living for plenty of years, by human standards it’d be cheating, and it wouldn’t make you live longer.Still, if you could make it to 150 that’d count as pretty good innings, and maybe by then we’d have invented a way for people to actually live forever – perhaps as robots.

County criticized after Indigenous history book re-classified as fiction 

Arts & Culture, Books

The re-classification of a children’s book on Native American history in a Texas library has caused an uproar among consumers, activists and library organizations nationwide.Last month, a citizen committee in Montgomery County, Texas made the decision to re-classify the children’s book, “Colonization and the Wampanoag Story” by Linda Coombs from children’s non-fiction to children’s fiction in the Montgomery County Memorial Library. Following weeks of public complaints, including an open letter signed by 13 organizations, about the decision, the Montgomery County Commission retracted the re-classification on Tuesday, moving the book back to the children’s non-fiction section of the library.Teresa Kenney, owner of Village Books in Montgomery County, said she was thrilled by the commissioners’ decision.”This move, to move it (the book) back into nonfiction was the right one, the only decision they could make,” Kenney told USA TODAY on Thursday.In addition to the book’s re-classification, the county commission approved the creation of a committee to revise the policy that created the citizens review committee and placed a hold on all committee actions made since Oct. 1. Established in March, the committee is made up of five Montgomery County residents who have the ability to provide oversight to the Montgomery County Memorial Library’s materials.Per requests made by community members, the committee is able to reassign material to a “more restrictive portion of the library” and remove material from library circulation altogether, according to the policy. The policy does not explicitly permit the committee to re-classify books.Published in 2023, “Colonization and the Wampanoag Story” tells the story of colonization in the New World from the perspective of the New England Indigenous Nations, according to publisher Penguin Random House. The book is intended for children ages 10 and up.The book was written by Linda Coombs, an author and historian from the Wampanoag Tribe of Aquinnah. She’s written several books for the Boston Children’s Museum’s Native American Program and worked for 30 years in the Wampanoag Indigenous Program, including 15 years as the associate director. Today, Coombs is involved in museum consulting and cultural presentations.Kelly Delaney, senior editor of Crown Books for Young Readers and editor of “Colonization and the Wampanoag Story,” said she is relieved by the reversed decision announced on Tuesday.”The book is part of a series, ‘Race to the Truth,’ which tells the true history of America from the non-white, non-European perspective. This perspective is new to a lot of readers, and it can make them uncomfortable, and that’s exactly why it’s so important that we publish it,” Delaney said in a statement to USA TODAY. “As publishers, we are committed to amplifying historically underrepresented voices and narratives. We will always support our authors in telling their stories and histories, and fight for the public’s freedom to read them.”Why did the citizen committee try to re-classify the book?Per the policy that established the Montgomery County Citizens Review Committee, committee meetings are to be held privately, so the committee’s decision-making process is unknown. However, which books the committee discusses is public information.Montgomery County Commissioner James Noack, who presides over the precinct where the library is located, told USA TODAY that he is unsure why County Judge Mark Keough, who developed the policy, made it to where the committee meets privately. USA TODAY contacted Keough’s office but was unsuccessful in connecting with him for an interview.In early October, Kenney filed a public information request to obtain information about what books the committee had received reconsideration requests about since March. It was through this request that she learned of the committee’s decision to re-classify “Colonization and the Wampanoag Story.”Noack said the committee received a request for reconsideration on Sept. 10 and met to review the book on Oct. 3. Kenney added that, according to the information she received from her request, the library was instructed to move the book to the children’s fiction section by Oct. 10.State, national organizations join public rebuttalAs the committee’s final decisions are not shared with members of the public directly, Kenney felt the need to shed light on its decision. Initially, she contacted Penguin Random House and the Texas Freedom to Read Project, an organization that aims to mobilize community members against censorship and book bans in Texas.From there, “it very much took a life of its own,” Kenney said.On Oct. 16, 13 organizations shared a public letter to the Montgomery County Citizens Review Committee, asking its members to reverse the decision on “Colonization and the Wampanoag Story.””‘Colonization and the Wampanoag Story’ is a carefully researched, fact-based account of the Indigenous perspective of the tribes of the New England area on the impacts of European colonization,” the letter states. “Moving it to the fiction section communicates distrust of material that reflects the truth of our American history. It diminished the legitimacy of Coomb’s perspective as a member of the Wampanoag Tribe and the Indigenous educators who recommend its use.”The letter was signed by the American Indians in Children’s Literature, American Indian Library Association, Authors Against Book Bans, Authors Guild, Every Library, FReadom Fighters, National Coalition Against Censorship, PEN America, Penguin Random House, Texas Freedom to Read Project, Texas Library Association, Village Books and We Need Diverse Books.Laney Hawes, co-founder of the Texas Freedom to Read Project, said she was “really, really happy” about the commission’s decision made on Tuesday, but she remains worried about decisions moving forward.”It is unconstitutional for a government committee to arbitrarily decide what is fiction and nonfiction. It’s not right,” Hawes told USA TODAY on Thursday. “We think it’s really terrifying for the future, because if the government here − it’s a government-appointment committee, so we’re going to call it the government − is going to declare these stories and these perspectives … as fiction … what does that mean for all perspectives that may push back against the political ideology of those that are in power?”What happens next?As approved by the Montgomery County Commission on Tuesday, the citizen committee will be put on hold until the current policy is reviewed.USA TODAY contacted the Montgomery County Memorial Library but was unsuccessful in reaching a team member for comment.Greta Cross is a national trending reporter at USA TODAY. Follow her on X and Instagram @gretalcross. Story idea? Email her at [email protected].

How Fracking Technology Could Drive a Clean-Energy Boom

Technology

From our collaborating partner Living on Earth, public radio’s environmental news magazine, an interview by Paloma Beltran with Jamie Beard, the founder of Project InnerSpace, which aims to kickstart geothermal power generation.

Earth’s crust holds an abundant supply of heat that can be turned into electricity through geothermal technology. 

So far, geothermal power generation has been mostly limited to volcanic areas like Iceland, where that heat is easy to access. But advances in deep drilling technology are revolutionizing the field worldwide.

In 2006, research led by MIT for the national labs pointed to the huge opportunity of this deep geothermal as an always-on renewable that some say could be a game-changer for the climate. And recently, the Interior Department greenlit the massive Fervo Energy project in Utah that should produce as much as 2 gigawatts, enough to power more than 2 million homes. 

Jamie Beard is the founder of Project InnerSpace, which aims to kickstart geothermal with drilling expertise from oil and gas. This interview has been edited for length and clarity. 

Explore the latest news about what’s at stake for the climate during this election season.

Anglia Ruskin University’s MA in children’s book illustration attracts students from all over the world

Arts & Culture, Books

The MA in children’s book illustration at Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) attracts students from all over the world – many of whom go on to win awards for their work. New Jersey-born Shelley Jackson is associate professor and course leader for the MA. Shelley Jackson. Picture: Richard Marsham Shelley, who moved from Austin, Texas, in…

Meet 10 talented African women writing children’s books in the diaspora

Arts & Culture, Books

A group of African women writers in the diaspora is significantly contributing to children’s literature. These authors draw upon their diverse experiences and backgrounds to create stories that resonate with young readers. Each writer brings a unique perspective shaped by their journeys across continents, addressing themes of identity, culture, and belonging.
Their works not only entertain but also educate, providing children with insights into the richness of African heritage and the complexities of life in a globalised world. Through their narratives, they foster a sense of connection and understanding among children from various backgrounds, encouraging empathy and curiosity about different cultures.
Read also: 8 countries with the highest share of female managers – ILO data
Here are 10 talented African women writing children’s books in the diaspora, compiled by BusinessDay.
1. Vese Aghoghovbia

Vese is a Nigerian writer focused on empowering young people to love and believe in themselves. She founded Philly & Friends, a children’s brand supporting underprivileged children globally. Recognised as a Top 100 Female Entrepreneur by Natwest & The Telegraph, Vese also won the 2021 Consumer & Luxury Rising Star award from the Black British Business Awards.
A Chartered Engineer with over ten years in strategy and operations, she has worked in FTSE-100 firms and the Baby & Child industry. Vese has spoken on platforms like the BBC and contributed to HuffPost Parent and Mother Mag. She lives in England with her family.
2. Olamidotun Votu-Obada

Olamidotun is the founder and lead author of Inspire HQ. She is a senior executive, social entrepreneur, children’s book author, speaker, and podcast host. Olamidotun created the Be Inspired Book Series, which includes titles such as Be Inspired By MKO, Be Inspired By Fela, and Be Inspired By Me Picture Book. In 2024, Be Inspired By MKO was presented to the Canadian Prime Minister, her books promote diversity and inclusion. Her books have received several awards, including two acknowledgements from the Ontario Government in 2024, and Olamidotun was listed as one of the “50 Most Inspiring Women” in 2019.
With a background in Business Economics and International Financial Economics from the University of Warwick and the University of Reading, Olamidotun has worked in management consultancy and business advisory, collaborating with NGOs and serving on boards in Africa. Olamidotun is a Canadian Nigerian and lives in Ontario with her husband and three daughters.
Read also: These 8 countries have female leaders running the government
3. Ariyike Lawal-Akinbobola

Ariyike is a Nigerian author, television presenter, talk show host, model, blogger, and lawyer based in Canada. She is also known for her occasional acting roles. Her children’s book, The Beautifully Coloured, has become a bestseller on Amazon. The book promotes kindness, diversity, inclusion, and positive affirmations for children.
Ariyike has worked as an associate producer and TV presenter for Spice TV, a fashion and lifestyle channel on DSTV. She hosted Spice TV’s flagship programme On the Couch and has been involved in producing and presenting fashion news. In addition, she has presented several other shows, including Sugar and Spice, Urban Spice, Instant Beauty Queen, and Project Swan. Ariyike also hosted Spice TV’s gadget show, Spice Toys.
4. Louisa Kiwana Olafuyi

Louisa is the co-founder of Kunda Kids, a black-owned publishing and media production company focused on teaching children about African history and culture. She and her husband, Oladele, launched Kunda Kids in 2020 after struggling to find books that could teach their son about ancient African history. Today, Kunda Kids works with over 20 writers, illustrators, and animators.
Louisa has authored over 50 children’s books and created the 3D animation Kunda & Friends. Through Kunda Kids, she seeks to address the underrepresentation of African culture in children’s media and promote global citizenship. The company’s mission is to inspire and educate children, helping them embrace their identities and dream big. Louisa is from Uganda, she lives in the United Kingdom with her family.
Read also: 8 remarkable African Queens who shaped history
5. Dora Owusu
Related News
Dora is from Ghana and now lives in the United States with her family. With a degree in Social Work, she has a deep interest in African and African-American history, which inspired her to write stories for children. Her books include Princess Nana Afia: The Majestic African Hair Show and I’m Wrapped in Pride with My Kente!.
Her work focuses on connecting people of African descent to the African continent. She encourages children to embrace their natural hair and see characters that reflect their identity. Dora’s stories aim to create a sense of belonging and pride in African heritage.
6. Ekiuwa Aire

Ekiuwa was born and raised in Benin City, Edo, Nigeria, and moved to Canada in 2007. As a mother, she noticed a lack of resources to introduce African history to her children, which motivated her to write. Her first picture book, Idia of the Benin Kingdom, was inspired by this need.
Initially driven by the desire to teach her children, Ekiuwa’s mission now extends to preserving African heritage through her books. She also speaks at seminars, libraries, and classrooms, sharing her knowledge with others. Ekiuwa lives with her husband and two daughters in Ontario, Canada, and remains committed to making African history accessible to all children.
Read also: 5 African Queens who have held Miss World title
7. Lara Oseghale

Lara was born and raised in Nigeria. From a young age, Lara’s commitment to her family led her to seek wholesome and durable resources for her children. However, she struggled to find books and toys that aligned with her values. This inspired her to create her line of faith-based resources. Her venture, Curious Berries, aims to provide high-quality, engaging materials for families like hers, focusing on promoting virtues that are often overlooked.
Lara’s passion for numbers led her to study accounting at the University of Reading, where she graduated with a first-class degree. She later earned a Master’s in finance from Imperial College, London, and became a chartered accountant. Beyond her career, she enjoys travel, cooking, and dancing. Through her venture, Curious Berries, she continues to inspire children to be confident, kind, and connected to their faith. Lara lives in the UK with her family, focusing on her faith and devotion to them.
8. Tolulope Adejumo

Tolulope also known as Tolulope Solutions, is committed to intentional parenting and stewardship. She shares her faith through her book, Memory Verses with Soteria, a 30-day journey for children that combines scripture memorisation with affirmations and fun. In this devotional, children follow Soteria, a young adventurer, as she explores the Bible, making learning Scripture engaging.
Tolulope’s work goes beyond her own family. Through mentorship, she guides the younger generation towards faith and purpose, helping them anchor their lives in Christ. She believes that by sharing her devotion to God, others will be inspired to live a life aligned with their calling. Tolulope is a Nigerian living in Canada with her family.
Read also: 10 Countries with remarkable female representation in National Parliaments 
9. Oge Mora

Mora is a Nigerian-American children’s book illustrator and author. Her work has garnered significant recognition, with her picture book, Thank You, Omu!, earning a Caldecott Honor, the Coretta Scott King/John Steptoe New Talent Award, the Ezra Jack Keats Book Award, and being named a New York Times Notable Book and Editors’ Choice.
Oge is also the author of Saturday and has illustrated several other works. Her illustrations have been featured in major publications, including The Washington Post, The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and The Boston Globe. She was also listed in Forbes 30 Under 30 – Art & Style (2021). Her story continues to inspire readers and fellow creators in the world of children’s book publishing. She lives in America with her family
10. Evelyn Olutola Logan

Evelyn Olutola Logan is a Nigerian-American author who writes about the simplicity and experiences of life. Her debut book, On the Streets of Ondo, draws on African folktales and traditions, introducing readers to the stories passed down through generations in Nigeria. She shares her childhood memories of growing up with a diverse group of family members and community friends, capturing the essence of Nigerian-American life.
Evelyn introduces children to Nigerian culture, storytelling, and traditions, sparking curiosity and a love for learning about Africa through her writing. Evelyn enjoys connecting with young readers and hearing their interpretations of her stories. She lives in America with her husband and their children.

Chisom Michael
Chisom Michael is a data analyst (audience engagement) and writer at BusinessDay, with diverse experience in the media industry. He holds a BSc in Industrial Physics from Imo State University and an MEng in Computer Science and Technology from Liaoning Univerisity of Technology China. He specialises in listicle writing, profiles and leveraging his skills in audience engagement analysis and data-driven insights to create compelling content that resonates with readers.

Meet 10 talented African women writing children’s books in the diaspora

Arts & Culture, Books

A group of African women writers in the diaspora is significantly contributing to children’s literature. These authors draw upon their diverse experiences and backgrounds to create stories that resonate with young readers. Each writer brings a unique perspective shaped by their journeys across continents, addressing themes of identity, culture, and belonging.
Their works not only entertain but also educate, providing children with insights into the richness of African heritage and the complexities of life in a globalised world. Through their narratives, they foster a sense of connection and understanding among children from various backgrounds, encouraging empathy and curiosity about different cultures.
Read also: 8 countries with the highest share of female managers – ILO data
Here are 10 talented African women writing children’s books in the diaspora, compiled by BusinessDay.
1. Vese Aghoghovbia

Vese is a Nigerian writer focused on empowering young people to love and believe in themselves. She founded Philly & Friends, a children’s brand supporting underprivileged children globally. Recognised as a Top 100 Female Entrepreneur by Natwest & The Telegraph, Vese also won the 2021 Consumer & Luxury Rising Star award from the Black British Business Awards.
A Chartered Engineer with over ten years in strategy and operations, she has worked in FTSE-100 firms and the Baby & Child industry. Vese has spoken on platforms like the BBC and contributed to HuffPost Parent and Mother Mag. She lives in England with her family.
2. Olamidotun Votu-Obada

Olamidotun is the founder and lead author of Inspire HQ. She is a senior executive, social entrepreneur, children’s book author, speaker, and podcast host. Olamidotun created the Be Inspired Book Series, which includes titles such as Be Inspired By MKO, Be Inspired By Fela, and Be Inspired By Me Picture Book. In 2024, Be Inspired By MKO was presented to the Canadian Prime Minister, her books promote diversity and inclusion. Her books have received several awards, including two acknowledgements from the Ontario Government in 2024, and Olamidotun was listed as one of the “50 Most Inspiring Women” in 2019.
With a background in Business Economics and International Financial Economics from the University of Warwick and the University of Reading, Olamidotun has worked in management consultancy and business advisory, collaborating with NGOs and serving on boards in Africa. Olamidotun is a Canadian Nigerian and lives in Ontario with her husband and three daughters.
Read also: These 8 countries have female leaders running the government
3. Ariyike Lawal-Akinbobola

Ariyike is a Nigerian author, television presenter, talk show host, model, blogger, and lawyer based in Canada. She is also known for her occasional acting roles. Her children’s book, The Beautifully Coloured, has become a bestseller on Amazon. The book promotes kindness, diversity, inclusion, and positive affirmations for children.
Ariyike has worked as an associate producer and TV presenter for Spice TV, a fashion and lifestyle channel on DSTV. She hosted Spice TV’s flagship programme On the Couch and has been involved in producing and presenting fashion news. In addition, she has presented several other shows, including Sugar and Spice, Urban Spice, Instant Beauty Queen, and Project Swan. Ariyike also hosted Spice TV’s gadget show, Spice Toys.
4. Louisa Kiwana Olafuyi

Louisa is the co-founder of Kunda Kids, a black-owned publishing and media production company focused on teaching children about African history and culture. She and her husband, Oladele, launched Kunda Kids in 2020 after struggling to find books that could teach their son about ancient African history. Today, Kunda Kids works with over 20 writers, illustrators, and animators.
Louisa has authored over 50 children’s books and created the 3D animation Kunda & Friends. Through Kunda Kids, she seeks to address the underrepresentation of African culture in children’s media and promote global citizenship. The company’s mission is to inspire and educate children, helping them embrace their identities and dream big. Louisa is from Uganda, she lives in the United Kingdom with her family.
Read also: 8 remarkable African Queens who shaped history
5. Dora Owusu
Related News
Dora is from Ghana and now lives in the United States with her family. With a degree in Social Work, she has a deep interest in African and African-American history, which inspired her to write stories for children. Her books include Princess Nana Afia: The Majestic African Hair Show and I’m Wrapped in Pride with My Kente!.
Her work focuses on connecting people of African descent to the African continent. She encourages children to embrace their natural hair and see characters that reflect their identity. Dora’s stories aim to create a sense of belonging and pride in African heritage.
6. Ekiuwa Aire

Ekiuwa was born and raised in Benin City, Edo, Nigeria, and moved to Canada in 2007. As a mother, she noticed a lack of resources to introduce African history to her children, which motivated her to write. Her first picture book, Idia of the Benin Kingdom, was inspired by this need.
Initially driven by the desire to teach her children, Ekiuwa’s mission now extends to preserving African heritage through her books. She also speaks at seminars, libraries, and classrooms, sharing her knowledge with others. Ekiuwa lives with her husband and two daughters in Ontario, Canada, and remains committed to making African history accessible to all children.
Read also: 5 African Queens who have held Miss World title
7. Lara Oseghale

Lara was born and raised in Nigeria. From a young age, Lara’s commitment to her family led her to seek wholesome and durable resources for her children. However, she struggled to find books and toys that aligned with her values. This inspired her to create her line of faith-based resources. Her venture, Curious Berries, aims to provide high-quality, engaging materials for families like hers, focusing on promoting virtues that are often overlooked.
Lara’s passion for numbers led her to study accounting at the University of Reading, where she graduated with a first-class degree. She later earned a Master’s in finance from Imperial College, London, and became a chartered accountant. Beyond her career, she enjoys travel, cooking, and dancing. Through her venture, Curious Berries, she continues to inspire children to be confident, kind, and connected to their faith. Lara lives in the UK with her family, focusing on her faith and devotion to them.
8. Tolulope Adejumo

Tolulope also known as Tolulope Solutions, is committed to intentional parenting and stewardship. She shares her faith through her book, Memory Verses with Soteria, a 30-day journey for children that combines scripture memorisation with affirmations and fun. In this devotional, children follow Soteria, a young adventurer, as she explores the Bible, making learning Scripture engaging.
Tolulope’s work goes beyond her own family. Through mentorship, she guides the younger generation towards faith and purpose, helping them anchor their lives in Christ. She believes that by sharing her devotion to God, others will be inspired to live a life aligned with their calling. Tolulope is a Nigerian living in Canada with her family.
Read also: 10 Countries with remarkable female representation in National Parliaments 
9. Oge Mora

Mora is a Nigerian-American children’s book illustrator and author. Her work has garnered significant recognition, with her picture book, Thank You, Omu!, earning a Caldecott Honor, the Coretta Scott King/John Steptoe New Talent Award, the Ezra Jack Keats Book Award, and being named a New York Times Notable Book and Editors’ Choice.
Oge is also the author of Saturday and has illustrated several other works. Her illustrations have been featured in major publications, including The Washington Post, The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and The Boston Globe. She was also listed in Forbes 30 Under 30 – Art & Style (2021). Her story continues to inspire readers and fellow creators in the world of children’s book publishing. She lives in America with her family
10. Evelyn Olutola Logan

Evelyn Olutola Logan is a Nigerian-American author who writes about the simplicity and experiences of life. Her debut book, On the Streets of Ondo, draws on African folktales and traditions, introducing readers to the stories passed down through generations in Nigeria. She shares her childhood memories of growing up with a diverse group of family members and community friends, capturing the essence of Nigerian-American life.
Evelyn introduces children to Nigerian culture, storytelling, and traditions, sparking curiosity and a love for learning about Africa through her writing. Evelyn enjoys connecting with young readers and hearing their interpretations of her stories. She lives in America with her husband and their children.

Chisom Michael
Chisom Michael is a data analyst (audience engagement) and writer at BusinessDay, with diverse experience in the media industry. He holds a BSc in Industrial Physics from Imo State University and an MEng in Computer Science and Technology from Liaoning Univerisity of Technology China. He specialises in listicle writing, profiles and leveraging his skills in audience engagement analysis and data-driven insights to create compelling content that resonates with readers.

Sharjah book fair to host over 80 comic-related workshops

Arts & Culture, Books

The book fair has a range of activities to keep young minds occupied.

Gulf Today, Staff Reporter
The 43rd Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF) is set to ignite the imagination of comic enthusiasts and aspiring artists from November 6-17, 2024, at the Expo Centre Sharjah. Under the theme “It Starts with a Book,” this year’s fair promises an exciting array of 87 comic-related activities and workshops led by talented illustrators and artists from around the globe.
Featuring an expansive lineup of 14 diverse topics, SIBF 2024 will enable attendees to explore various techniques in comic creation, crafts, voice acting, character development, 3D design, and more. Visitors will have the unique opportunity to learn from industry experts and explore innovative methods that breathe life into their creative visions. Whether it’s crafting compelling narratives or mastering the intricacies of character design, these workshops promise to inspire and empower the next generation of comic artists and storytellers.
A comic enthusiast’s paradise
Participants can immerse themselves in workshops such as ‘Giant Comics’, where they will create life-sized comic panels that can be displayed on walls or used as theatrical props. ‘Creating a Comic Book Cover’ will cover how to design an eye-catching comic book cover, providing insights into essential elements such as composition, character design, and effective title placement.
An expert conducts a workshop.

In the ‘3D Comics’ workshop, attendees will design unique comic characters using clay or 3D printing technology while discovering techniques for transitioning from 2D to 3D art. Additionally, the ‘Voice Acting for Comic Books’ workshop offers an exciting opportunity for participants to explore vocal performance, adding a dynamic dimension to their favourite comic characters.
Exploring deeper themes
For attendees eager to delve into the narrative aspects of comics, SIBF 2024 offers workshops that focus on storytelling and character development. The ‘Dialogue and Caption Writing’ workshop emphasises crafting natural dialogue and enhancing narratives through effective captions, allowing participants to write snappy, character-driven conversations. In the ‘Writing for Genre-Specific Comics’ workshop, participants will explore conventions across various genres — such as superhero, horror, romance, and sci-fi — learning how to utilise and subvert these conventions in their own work.
A participant sharpens her creativity at the workshop.

The ‘Exploring Themes Through Comics’ workshop teaches how to integrate meaningful themes into stories using symbolism, recurring motifs, and narrative structure for deeper resonance. For those interested in character dynamics, the ‘Heroes and Villains’ workshop highlights the complexity of crafting multi-dimensional characters, emphasising that even villains see themselves as heroes in their own narratives. Additionally, the ‘Superhero Comic Workshop’ combines storytelling with character design, giving participants the chance to create their own superheroes and develop exciting storylines that captivate audiences.
Workshops for all ages
The fair caters to comic enthusiasts of all ages, offering a range of engaging activities tailored for younger audiences. Children can unleash their creativity in the ‘Chibi Keychain Workshop’ by designing polymer clay keychains inspired by beloved manga and anime characters, and the ‘Polymer Clay Fridge Magnets’ workshop will invite young artists to create personalised fridge magnets, enhancing their artistic skills while providing a fun keepsake to take home.
The ‘Naruto Soap Making Workshop’ introduces kids to the fun process of crafting character-inspired soaps using moulds. The ‘Silver Superheroes’ workshop encourages children to craft superhero figures from simple aluminium foil, fostering hands-on creativity. Lastly, the ‘Design Your Own Bag Patches’ workshop offers a creative outlet for participants to personalise their bags by designing unique patches that reflect their individual style.