The Gibraltar Tourist Board have confirmed a series of Lightning Talks for this year’s Gibunco Gibraltar Literary Festival. The dynamic, ten-minute presentations by a selection of local speakers are set to be informative, inspiring and entertaining. 

On Thursday 14^th November, join Giordano Durante, Jonathan Teuma, Bethany Gadd, David Bentata and the Tiny Minds team as they share their unique literary journeys and experiences.

Giordano Durante

Founder and Editor of Patuka Press

Discover the vibrant world of Gibraltarian literature with Giordano Durante, one of the key figures behind Patuka Press. This independent press is dedicated to publishing and promoting the rich language, culture and identity of Gibraltar. Durante will discuss the three vibrant pamphlets already published and the ongoing efforts to spotlight the unique literary voices of Gibraltar.

Jonathan Teuma

Visiting Professor at URJC Madrid and Founder of Poetry Slam Madrid

Jonathan Teuma will take you through his evocative exploration of Llanito identity, drawing from his two poetry collections and memoir. As a pivotal figure in Madrid's poetry scene, Teuma will offer insights into how his work delves into the essence of Gibraltar's unique cultural identity.

Bethany Gadd
PhD Researcher, University of Gibraltar

Bethany Gadd will share her fascinating research on the perceptions of Gibraltar's residents towards Barbary Macaques. Her talk will highlight the symbolic significance of these animals and the complex interactions between humans and wildlife. Gadd’s presentation will underscore the importance of social science in wildlife conservation efforts.

David Bentata
Poet, Storyteller, and Entrepreneur

Join David Bentata on a nostalgic journey through a Gibraltar that is almost lost to time. His book, filled with over 80 vivid scenes from his life, blends memories, humour and local flair to capture the true essence of being Gibraltarian. Expect light, entertaining stories sprinkled with local expressions.

Tiny Minds

Young Enterprise A-Level students

Join members of the Tiny Minds team as they revisit their inspiration and research for the Llanito book for children 'Vamonos! Let's Go', which explores some of the Rock's destinations and local lifestyles and traditions. These young entrepreneurs will draw on their experiences when compiling this interactive publication aimed at promoting Gibraltar's unique culture and will revisit the engaging storytelling sessions as part of the initiative.

The Minister for Tourism and Culture, the Hon Christian Santos, said: ‘These Lightning Talks will be a whistlestop journey through the authors’ unique literary perspectives and cultural reflections, which I’m confident will prove to be a local highlight of the Festival.’