Behind that larger-than-life persona that has taken the world by storm and redefined the comedy landscape, who is Trevor Noah?
Get up, close and personal with ‘The Most Influential South African’ Trevor Noah, as the 40th Sharjah International Book Fair creates a one-of-a-kind opportunity for the UAE and the region to hear how a humble, funny South African guy emerged from his local comedian community to take on one of the biggest jobs in American late-night television.
Noah, whose The Daily Show have resonated with people from all walks of life for several years, will use the powerful tool of laughter to bring SIBF audiences together at the Expo Centre Ballroom on Friday, November 12, at 9 pm.
SIBF, which has built a formidable reputation for attracting top cultural talents and personalities every year, is hosting the 37-year-old as Guest Speaker for its milestone 40th edition, which runs from November 3 – 13 in Expo Centre Sharjah.
In a session, Noah, author of the 2016 memoir Born a Crime: Stories from a South African Childhood, will share with the audience the inspiring story of his life and career that saw him shift from radio, acting and deejaying to become the most successful standup comic in his native South Africa. The book has been published in a young readers’ edition and is recommended for ages 11 up.
The New York Times best-selling author’s memoir, which gives readers an intimate look at the world that shaped him, will be available for purchase during SIBF 2021.
HE Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, the SBA Chairman said: “We are delighted to host Trevor Noah at SIBF this year. His unique perspectives and colourful commentary on global events have ignited important conversations on some of the pressing realities of our world. His key accomplishment in using his talent and ever-growing fame is the fact that he has been to turn the youth’s attention to these realities in a way that very few have. It is well known that SIBF is always looking to deepen the diversity and meaningfulness of offerings, and we believe that Noah, who has defined himself on his own terms, will especially inspire our younger audience to dream bigger and never let obstacles stand in their way.”
An established star on several continents, Noah was virtually unknown in the US when he was chosen in 2015 to lend his name and face to one of the most popular television franchises. In no time, Noah soon put his own distinctive stamp on The Daily Show, setting it on a new course as he commanded the attention of a more young and diverse audience with his engaging content and insightful take on global current events.