Stand Up for the World

One night with 4 of the UKs best global heritage comedians: Shazia Mirza, President Obonjo, Tadiwa Mahlunge, and Yuriko Kotani.

Get ready for a night of fun, laughter and gloriously unpredictable comedy as Horizons Festival 2026 takes over HOME Manchester with a truly international line-up of stand-up talent. 

Featuring four of the most distinctive voices on the UK comedy circuit, this special showcase brings together perspectives from across the globe — all delivered with razor-sharp wit, cultural insight and the kind of punchlines that make you laugh first and think later. 

Headlining the evening is Shazia Mirza, the acclaimed British-Pakistani comedian known for her fearless satire, brutally honest observations and appearances on some of the UK’s biggest comedy and TV stages. 

Joining her is the unforgettable President Obonjo— the self-proclaimed dictator-turned-comedian will be your evenings Master of Ceremonies taking no prisoners with his surreal political chaos and unapologetic crowd work. 

Also appearing is Tadiwa Mahlunge, the Zimbabwe-born, Cardiff-raised comic rapidly becoming one of the breakout names in UK stand-up, blending laid-back storytelling with brilliantly offbeat takes on modern life. 

Completing the line-up is Yuriko Kotani, the award-winning Japan-born comedian whose deadpan delivery and brilliantly awkward observations have earned her a devoted following nationwide. 

One stage. Four international comedy powerhouses. Zero chance of a quiet evening. Come along for an evening of smart, diverse and laugh-out-loud stand-up.