Hansib publications was founded in 1970 by Arif Ali. Following the sale of his north London-based West Indian food business.
Arif had no formal experience in publishing. However, after migrating from Guyana to Britain, he recognised among his fellow travellers and contemporaries an epic sensibility. Which the mainstream media ignored or failed to recognise.
Hansib’s first title was the monthly West Indian Digest magazine. Hansib soon expanded its activities and produced newspapers, magazines and periodicals for Britain’s Caribbean, Asian and African communities. These included the Caribbean Times and West Indian World.
Hansib’s role as curator of legends and anecdotes has led to the publication of biographies, memoirs, poetry and prose compilations, novels, history books and the acclaimed nation series publications. These include Dominica – Nature Island of the Caribbean and Guyana at 50 – Reflection, Celebration and Inspiration.
With a network of distributors and sales outlets, Hansib books are available in bookshops, libraries and centres of learning. They’re also available from online booksellers including Amazon and Waterstones.
Hansib is proud of its reputation in providing an outlet for voices that remain unheard. Its legacy of promoting Caribbean voices and perspectives has made it an invaluable resource for those seeking to understand and appreciate the rich cultural heritage of the Caribbean.
Guyana Speaks – Celebrating 50 years of Hansib Publications and Arif Ali