Three Merrifield pupils whose isixhosa poems won gold at the East London Eisteddfod are proud of elevating their home language.
Lilitha Madikizela, Zizikazi Bidla and Mbutokazi Mavuso said impressing the judges with their native language while delivering their poetry was a fulfilling feeling.
The three pupils said the language had the ability to express emotions and draw the attention of an audience.
Lilitha, in grade 11, was awarded a double gold and said it was her first time taking part in the isixhosa section but she had participated in the annual arts and drama festival for a number of years.
She said isixhosa was a beautiful language which needed to be embraced.
“Xhosa is a beautiful, emotive and powerful language. The adjectives convey meaning in such an exceptional manner with an emphasis on the message,” Lilitha said.
She said she felt like it was an honour to perform among beautiful and talented humans who understood their craft.
“All participants were highly talented. It was such a remarkable moment to be surrounded by such gifted people.”
Zizikazi, in grade 10, received a double gold for her poetry and said performing and seeing other talents was fulfilling.
“It felt great being able to compete with other learners and see how they had prepared their piece and performed them in front of everyone. The atmosphere was warm and safe. Everyone was there to see others shine with their skill.”
Zizikazi had been in the competition over the past years but had competed in the English section.
She said the beauty about performing in one’s own language was being able to express feelings and emotions.
“The poetry in your language makes the audience feel what you want them to feel at that very moment.”
“My language is isixhosa. This was the best thing to do because it is my home language and something I am proud of.”
She said her shining moment was walking bravely to the stage to share her craft and coming back victorious.
“My highlight was going to the stage and reciting my poem in front of a crowd I did not know and coming back with my double gold at my first isixhosa Eisteddfod,” she said.
Mbutokazi, in grade 12, scooped gold for her poetry.
“It felt empowering to compete at such a level in my language but exciting because of the support each performer received from the competitors.
“I enjoy performing in isixhosa because it is my native language. The cheering and the laughter inbetween our performances were the greatest highlights of the day,” she said.
