Mbali mesmerizes the audience with her hit #poem title 'I Am Africa'

The picturesque venue, nestled in what appeared to be a bush adorned with rocks and rustic structures, provided a stunning backdrop for a memorable event.

Amidst the natural beauty, a charming opening with lush, well-manicured green grass set the stage for a delightful picnic outing that had attendees enchanted.

Local poets Duchess and Mbali added a touch of elegance and artistry to the gathering, mesmerizing the audience with their poignant verses. As each poet recited two poems, their unique talents captured the hearts of all present, from young to old.

A particularly heartwarming moment unfolded when a baby girl, captivated by Mbali's moving poem 'I am Africa,' couldn't resist dancing alongside the poet, showcasing the universal appeal of creativity and expression.

To enhance the atmosphere and foster a sense of intimacy, attendees brought along cooler boxes, picnic baskets, blankets, and camp chairs, creating a cozy ambience for all to enjoy.

The soft strains of background music further enriched the experience, setting the tone for a harmonious and engaging gathering that celebrated the beauty of nature, poetry, and community.

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#Poetry for change!

Poetry has played a crucial part in the peace movement, the civil rights movement, the women's movement, the gay liberation campaign and the struggle against apartheid in South Africa.

In a world teeming with injustice, it is more urgent than ever to read (and write) poetry that engages with social realities and inequities. 

Poetry, as Audre Lorde memorably stated, "is a vital necessity of our existence. It forms the quality of light within which we can predicate our hopes and dreams toward survival and change".

In our social media-driven era, where it often feels as if nuance is in jeopardy, it is timely to think about how poetry can embrace the political while not succumbing to the lure of rhetoric.

During the Arab Spring in 2010, Abu Al-Qasim Al-Shabi's poem The Will to Life captured the emotions of Tunisian protesters in their struggle for democracy and change.

In Afghanistan, women are harnessing the power of the landay (a two-line form of poetry) as a vital lifeline in resistance against the Taliban, who can be threatened by the simple act of composing and sharing couplets.

The poignant concision of the following landay is especially striking:
When sisters sit together, they always praise their brothers.
When brothers sit together, they sell their sisters to others.

Last December, the tragically prophetic poem of Palestinian professor Refaat Alareer, who was subsequently targeted and killed by an Israeli bomb, called us to bear witness, as global citizens, and speak out about the horrors in Gaza:
If I must die,
you must live
to tell my story.

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Reading #poetry is not a luxury! #TheMommyClub

The journey of a poet, much like the evolution of their craft, is a tapestry woven with threads of experience, introspection, and societal influence. 

Adrienne Rich's poignant question, "To say that a poet is responsive, responsible – what can that mean?" serves as a guiding light for poets navigating their roles as witnesses and conscience-bearers within their communities.

Growing up amidst the tumult of 1980s Ireland, the specter of violence across the Northern Ireland border cast a somber shadow over the consciousness of the author. Yet, it was through the verses of Wordsworth, Yeats, and Emily Dickinson that solace and understanding were sought, providing a sanctuary amidst the chaos.

The tragic fate of Ann Lovett, her death emblematic of the injustices faced by unmarried mothers in a rigidly patriarchal society, served as a catalyst for the author's burgeoning feminism and social consciousness. The inauguration of Mary Robinson, Ireland's first female president, further ignited the flames of hope and possibility, her nod to the poetic voices of Eavan Boland and others signaling a new era of representation and resistance.

With the publication of her debut collection, "No Vague Utopia," the author grappled with the dichotomy between lyrical expression and social commentary, navigating the expectations imposed by societal norms and the predominantly male literary canon. However, as life unfolded and perspectives shifted, so too did the poet's voice, culminating in the release of "Conditional Perfect" in 2019—a testament to the evolving emotional landscape and unyielding resolve to confront oppression in all its forms.

While the journey towards embracing the mantle of a political poet may have been gradual, the author now stands firmly in recognition of the power and responsibility inherent in their craft. 

Poetry, as Alice Walker eloquently posited, serves as the lifeblood of rebellion, revolution, and the awakening of collective consciousness—a truth embraced wholeheartedly by those who dare to bear witness to the world's injustices and advocate for change through their verse.


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From Pageants to Prose: Palesa Molefe Pens Debut Children's Book #MMA24

Former Miss Botswana, Palesa Molefe, known for her grace and poise on the runway, has embarked on a new chapter in her career - as an author.  Her debut children's book, "O Shapo, O Sho?" written in Setswana, aims to empower young Batswana readers through a collection of positive affirmations.

The story follows a young girl who navigates feelings of fear, sadness, and shyness, ultimately discovering the strength within herself through the power of positive thinking.  Molefe's book encourages self-discovery and resilience, providing young readers with valuable tools to overcome challenges and build self-confidence.

"I believe that every child deserves to feel empowered and believe in their own potential," shared Molefe. "With 'O Shapo, O Sho?' I hope to inspire young Batswana to embrace their unique qualities and face life's challenges with courage and positivity."

Molefe's talents extend far beyond the world of pageantry.  She is also an accomplished actress, producer, and the founder of Botswana United Artists, a non-governmental organization dedicated to promoting the value of artists and mental health awareness in society.

With her diverse skillset and passion for empowering others, Palesa Molefe's transition from Miss Botswana to children's book author is an inspiring journey.  "O Shapo, O Sho?"  promises to be a valuable addition to Batswana children's literature, fostering a generation of confident and resilient young minds.

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The Africa Centre CEO departs

After a transformative seven-year tenure, Uzodinma Iweala will be stepping down from his role as CEO of The Africa Center, leaving behind a legacy of innovation and growth. Founded in 1984, The Africa Center, situated in Harlem, New York, serves as a vital platform for contemporary African engagement.

Under Iweala's leadership, The Africa Center navigated challenging times, notably the pandemic, and achieved remarkable milestones. The New York Times highlights his success in securing substantial funding for a significant construction project at the Center's current location atop Museum Mile. This effort reflects Iweala's commitment to enhancing the institution's physical infrastructure.

Throughout his tenure, Iweala expanded The Africa Center's programming, adapting creatively to pandemic constraints. The institution hosted an array of events, including lectures by heads of state, outdoor dance parties, and film screenings. These initiatives underscore Iweala's dedication to fostering diverse cultural experiences and strengthening connections within the African diaspora.

Moreover, Iweala's tenure witnessed significant exhibitions like "States of Becoming," showcasing works by 17 African artists from the continent and its diaspora. Initiatives like the media index to track Africa's coverage in the media and the Future Africa Forum underscored Iweala's vision to amplify African voices and narratives globally.

Reflecting on his departure, Iweala expressed pride in the institution's growth, noting, "I'm really proud of what we've been able to build over the past few years, especially in a challenging environment. It's the right time to leave for me and for the institution." Jendayi E. Frazer, co-chair of The Africa Center's board, lauded Iweala's impact, emphasizing his role in advancing the institution's interdisciplinary mission.

As Iweala prepares to transition from his role, The Africa Center stands poised to build upon the foundation he laid, continuing to foster dialogue, celebrate African culture, and strengthen connections between Africa and the global community.


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DUT Drama and Production students are gearing up to showcase their latest production, After Isimangaliso #FreedomDay

 The Drama and Production students at DUT are gearing up to showcase their latest production, After Isimangaliso (After the Miracle), which delves into the themes of democracy and hope. Created, devised, and directed collaboratively by Dr. Tanya van der Walt and Dr. Tamar Meskin, along with Mduduzi Mtshali and Zenneth Cibane, this production explores South Africa's journey from the hope of transitioning into democracy to the disappointments faced 30 years later.

Drawing inspiration from the works of Antjie Krog and Athol Fugard, as well as materials from the archives of the Denis Hurley Centre, After Isimangaliso is a thought-provoking piece that challenges the audience to consider the country's current state and the potential for a better future, especially for the youth.

Part of the Challenging Indifference series, hosted by the Denis Hurley Centre, Diakonia Council of Churches, and DUT Drama, this production aims to spark conversations about democracy and social justice.

The theme of challenging indifference was also explored in the annual Good Friday Service and will continue to be unpacked in The Bridge, a virtual pilgrimage leading up to the national elections.

Don't miss the opportunity to catch After Isimangaliso at the DUT Courtyard Theatre on May 6, 7, and 8 at 18h00.

Tickets are priced at R50 (R20 for students) and can be purchased through the secretary Bawinile. Join the conversation and be part of the journey towards a more hopeful future for South Africa.


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Submit to the 2025 Cave Canem Prize #WeDoMoreWednesdays

Submissions are now open to the 2025 Cave Canem Prize. if you have a debut manuscript of poems, we highly recommend you apply by the deadline of May 13.
Cave Canem was founded by Toi Derricotte and Cornelius Eady in 1996 to remedy the underrepresentation and isolation of African-American poets in the literary landscape. The prize was launched in 1999 with Rita Dove's selection of Natasha Trethewey's Domestic Work. Last year's winner was Nigerian writer Ajibola Tolase.
The Cave Canem Prize is awarded annually to the best debut collection of poems submitted by a Black poet. At some point, all poets face the challenge of communicating their work beyond the first manuscript. To assist Black poets in surmounting that obstacle, Cave Canem established the Prize and created a direct route to three publishers: Graywolf Press, University of Pittsburgh Press, and University of Georgia Press.
This year marks the 25th anniversary of the Prize and Cave Canem is offering a prize of $10,000 for the selected manuscript, the largest prize in the organization's history. In honor of the 25th anniversary, inaugural winner Natasha Trethewey will judge the 2025 Cave Canem Prize. In addition to the $10,000, the winner will be published by Graywolf Press in Fall 2025 and receive 15 copies of the book as well as a feature reading with Trethewey.
Submission Guidelines:
All unpublished, original collections of poems written in English by Black poets who have not had a full-length book of poetry published by a professional press are eligible. Cave Canem defines Black poets as any poet who identifies as a member of the African Diaspora.
Black authors of chapbooks and self-published books with a maximum print run of 500 may apply. Simultaneous submission to other book awards should be noted: immediate notice upon winning such an award is required. Winner agrees to be present in the continental United States at her or his own expense shortly after the book is published in order to participate in promotional reading(s).
Current or former students, colleagues, employees, family members and close friends of the judge; current or former employees and members of the board of Cave Canem Foundation or University of Pittsburgh Press; and authors who have published a book or have a book under contract with University of Georgia Press are ineligible.
Upload manuscript as a .doc or .pdf document. Include a title page with the title only and table of contents. Author's name should not appear on any pages within the uploaded document.
Include a cover letter in the Submittable text box—DO NOT include within the .doc or .pdf document of the manuscript. Cover letter should include author's brief bio (200 words, maximum) and list of acknowledgments of previously published poems.
Manuscript must be paginated, with a font size of 11 or 12, and 60-75 pages in length, inclusive of title page and table of contents. A poem may be multiple pages, but no more than one poem per page is permitted.
Hard copy submissions will not be considered.
Only one manuscript per poet is allowed.
Deadline: May 13, 2024

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All set for annual Motse wa Setso Cultural Festival in Botswana #RiseAboveTheNoise

The second edition of the annual Motse wa Setso Cultural Festival is creating a buzz in the second capital city, Francistown.

Known as a melting pot of both traditional music and local cuisine, this all inclusive Family Fun Day event is slated for April, 27 at the Old Francistown Stadium.

The brain child of Councilor Ontiretse Bakaile, a founding member of Dinkwe-nkgoga Traditional group and Francistown Cultural Ensemble, Motse wa Setso aims to promote and celebrate the country's diverse cultures through dance, music and fashion.

In an interview on Tuesday (April 16th, 2024) morning Bakaile, who's now the event's Patron told Voice Entertainment that they went for the Vintage and African Attire theme to cater for both the young and old.

"The show is headlined by Johnny Mokhali and Culture Spears, so we expect both a very mature and also a young crowd," he said.

"We want revellers to turn up clad in the yesteryear outfits, with others rocking their African attires," Bakaile said.

The Councilor said fun lovers can expect an epic day of fun which will start as early as 900hrs with an official opening by the Assistant Minister of Youth, Gender Sports and Culture Buti Billy.

"This should be an outing for the entire family. Kids will have their jumping castles, horse riding, quad bikes, trampoline, chess and even snooker," he said.

The councilor said the event which is part of Botswana Tourism Organisation (BTO) calendar of events has not received any financial backing from government or private companies.

"We still appeal to private companies to come on board and support what by stature is one of the biggest cultural events in Francistown," Bakaile said.

The patron also urged government departments and parastatals to purchase stalls at P5000 each where they can sell their products and services to thousands of potential clients in a more relaxed atmosphere.

The complete line-up includes the four string guitar maestro Solly Sebotso of 'Pidipidi' fame, Dinkwenkgoga, Nkwita, Mazganda.Com, Bantolo, Francistown Cultural Ensemble, and local DJs such as Bunz, DVJ Dreazy, Bafana and Cue Deck.

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World Book Night - It's time to turn a page for an hour #MondayMotivation

Every year on April 23rd, World Book Night brings people from all backgrounds together to celebrate books and reading. It's also a time to encourage adults to take the time and read at night.

What do you do with your free time? According to a recent survey, most people around the world spend their free time sleeping. Others use their free time to complete household chores or go shopping.

Some use it to volunteer. Many people also spend their free time hanging out with friends, listening to the radio, watching television, or looking at social media.

Sadly, not very many people spend this time reading. In some countries like the UK, only 69 percent of adults read during their free time. In the United States, individuals between the ages of 15 to 44 read l an average of 10 minutes a day. 

What these people don't realize is the benefits they are missing out on.

Reading includes many surprising benefits, too:

Reading increases empathy, which helps to improve relationships with others.

It makes people feel more connected to a wider community.

Reading books reduces symptoms of depression and increases a sense of wellbeing.

It helps provide insight into the worldview of others.

It helps students to enlarge their vocabularies and perform better academically.

Reading provides a better understanding of one's own identity as well as the identity of others.

For those who love to read or want to read more, the good news is, there are so many great books from which to choose! Even better than that is you don't even have to buy a book. 

Simply check out books from the library. There are also many websites, such as Open Library, that allow you to download free e-books.

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Melinda Ferguson's book about AKA and Anele Tembe's relationship receives more "battering"

Moses Tembe has reportedly distanced himself from a book  detailing his daughter's relationship with slain South African rapper, Kiernan 'AKA' Forbes.

According to media reports, a spokesperson for the Tembe family said they did not commission the writing of the book. 

The spokesperson further stated that the Tembe family did not contribute to the book and it is based on the author's own views and research.

According to The South African, Tembe categorically denied sharing the author's views.

Last week, IOL reported that author Melinda Ferguson had penned a book, "When Love Kills: The tragic tale of AKA and Anele", detailing the couple's relationship and ultimately Anele's death in April 2021,  when she reportedly fell from the 10th floor of the Pepperclub in Cape Town.

 Two years later, AKA was gunned down outside the Wish on Florida restaurant in Durban.
Ferguson, responding to her Facebook followers, shared that she spoke intensively to both sides of the families and received permission.

However, earlier this week the Forbes family released a statement denying Ferguson's claims.

"We are not in any way associated with Melinda Ferguson's book and we do not endorse it. In the same breath, we distance ourselves from the contents of the book.

"When Melinda reached out to us, we respectfully and rightfully declined to contribute to her book.
"At this stage we cannot give any further comment on the book as we are unaware of its contents. We do, however, find the intended publication of the book and the timing distasteful and opportunistic," the family said.

Ferguson told The Citizen that she's been receiving criticism and threats over the book.

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International Poetry & Visual Art Family Festival - Commemorating 30 Years of Democracy

Embark on a 'Poetic Journey' where words dance and emotions sing. Join us for an enchanting evening of spoken word where great poets will weave tales evoke emotions and ignite the imagination with the power of their voices.

Prepare to be captivated moved and inspired. Step into a world of creativity and wonder as we proudly host award winning Visual Artists.

 Join us for an unforgettable journey through the minds of prominent artists each showcasing their mesmerizing work that will ignite your imagination.

Entertainment: Award Winning Comedian & DJs on Deck.

Mark your calendars and prepare to be inspired!

Sat Apr 27 2024 at 03:00 pm to 11:00 pm (GMT+02:00)

The Art Farm, Plot 56 Shorthorn Road, R550, Eikenhof, 1447, South Africa, Johannesburg

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Exceptional company, good food and drinks set to rock Kingsmead Book Fair in Rosebank #GotGame

The Kingsmead Book Fair has become a significant event on South Africa's literary calendar.

 Kingsmead College is proud to host its 12th annual Book Fair on Saturday 25 May 2024, opposite the Rosebank Gautrain station.

What Can I Expect From The Kingsmead Book Fair 2024?

The event organisers invite you to enter the realm of the literary world with them on 25 May and enjoy in-depth discussion and heated debate mixed with some exceptional company, good food and drink. 

This year's programme participants include Caster Semenya, Jonathan Ancer, Naledi Shange, Jo Watson, Shafinaaz Hassim, Pip Williams, Natalie Conyer, Oyama Mabandla, Kobby Ben Ben, Shubnum Khan and Darrel Bristow-Bovey, to name a few. Under 3's free. Discourse tickets are on sale for R100 per person.

 
For More Information
Book your tickets for the event here: https://www.webtickets.co.za/v2/Event.aspx?itemid=1546388927

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Emen Bassey is the undeniable queen of African romance fiction #WWERaw

Emem Bassey's dedication to championing plus-size women in her romance novels is truly revolutionary in the world of African literature. By featuring plus-size heroines as the focal point of her stories, Bassey is breaking down stereotypes and barriers that have long plagued the representation of women in literature and media.

In a genre where traditional beauty standards often prevail, Bassey's decision to highlight plus-size women as strong, desirable, and worthy of love is a breath of fresh air. Her commitment to inclusivity and diversity in her storytelling is not only empowering for plus-size readers but also sends a powerful message about the importance of representation in literature.

Bassey's passion for romance is evident in her writing, where she seamlessly weaves together elements of love, passion, and intrigue. Her novels are not only entertaining but also thought-provoking, as they challenge readers to rethink their preconceived notions about beauty and romance.

Through her work, Bassey is paving the way for more diverse voices to be heard in the world of African literature. Her dedication to creating stories that resonate with readers from all walks of life is a testament to her talent and creativity as a writer.

As we celebrate Emem Bassey and her groundbreaking contributions to the genre of African romance fiction, we are reminded of the power of storytelling to inspire, uplift, and empower. Bassey's work serves as a reminder that love knows no bounds and that everyone deserves to see themselves represented in the stories they read.

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Renowned author Wole Soyinka shares stage with South African creatives #NoNameBreakfastShow

Nigerian Nobel laureate Wole Soyinka, South African artist William Kentridge, and musician Neo Muyanga came together for a captivating event on Saturday, April 4 in Joburg. The gathering of these three brilliant minds was a legendary moment that showcased the power of interdisciplinary collaboration in the arts.

The event, organized by the Centre for the Less Good Idea in Johannesburg, was a platform for creativity and innovation. Founded by William Kentridge and Bronwyn Lace, The Centre is a space dedicated to fostering experimental and cross-disciplinary arts projects. Their goal is to explore and celebrate the "less good idea" by pushing boundaries and embracing creativity in all its forms.

The evening kicked off with a reading of Wole Soyinka's play, The Bacchae of Euripides: A Communion Rite, setting the stage for a thought-provoking conversation between Soyinka and Kentridge, expertly moderated by Neo Muyanga. 

The discussion touched on Soyinka's commitment to Pan-Africanism in his work, the concept of African tragedy, and a forthcoming publication that features collaboration between Soyinka and Kentridge.

One of the highlights of the evening was the performance of "Notebook of a long day's journey into a Hillbrow night", a production that revisited Aimé Césaire's iconic decolonial poem through the contemporary lens of teenagers living in Hillbrow.

 This collaborative effort between The Windybrow Arts Centre, Césaire Youth, and The Centre for the Less Good Idea showcased the power of art to transcend boundaries and tell stories that resonate across cultures and generations.

The event was a testament to the transformative power of art and the importance of collaboration in pushing creative boundaries. The photos captured at the event serve as a reminder of the magic that can happen when diverse talents come together in pursuit of a shared vision.

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Poet walks away with €10,000 in the 2024 John Pollard Foundation International Poetry Prize #TCIF #FridayFeeling

Patrick James Errington has been awarded the prestigious 2024 John Pollard Foundation International Poetry Prize for his debut collection "the swailing" at a ceremony held in Trinity College Dublin. 

The annual prize, valued at €10,000, recognizes exceptional debut poetry collections in the English language and is sponsored by the John Pollard Foundation and administered by the Trinity Oscar Wilde Centre.

Errington, a Canadian-born poet, translator, and researcher currently residing in Scotland, expressed his gratitude for being recognized alongside esteemed past winners and the remarkable works on this year's shortlist. He acknowledged the significance of the prize, stating, "It took me the best part of 10 years to find the words for the swailing – give me another 10 and maybe – maybe – I'll be able to articulate what an honour this is to me."

Chair of the judging panel, Prof Eoin McNamee, praised Errington's collection, describing it as a work of remarkable virtuosity that delves into profound themes with emotional depth and poetic craftsmanship. The judges were captivated by Errington's ability to ground his poetry in the raw emotions and complexities of the human experience.

Patron of the John Pollard Foundation, Stephen Vernon, congratulated Errington on his achievement, commending him for his evocative poems and distinctive voice. Vernon expressed his delight in adding Errington's name to the list of esteemed poets who have received the prestigious award, highlighting Errington's talent and the impact of his work on the literary landscape. 

The John Pollard Foundation International Poetry Prize continues to celebrate emerging literary talent and honor exceptional poets like Patrick James Errington for their contributions to the world of poetry.

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And the nominees are.... 2024 International Booker Prize shortlist announced #thursdayvibes

The shortlist for the prestigious International Booker Prize was announced on Tuesday.

This esteemed prize is awarded annually to the most exceptional work of fiction globally, with the book having been translated into English and published in the UK and/or Ireland. 

The six books featured on this year's list were penned by authors from Argentina, Germany, Sweden, Korea, the Netherlands and Brazil and translated from Dutch, German, Korean, Portuguese, Spanish and Swedish.

Acclaimed Canadian writer and broadcaster of the literary show Writers and Company, Eleanor Wachtel, chaired the 2024 judging panel, and was joined by the Pulitzer Prize-winning poet Natalie Diaz, Booker Prize shortlisted author Romesh Gunesekera, writer, editor and translator Aaron Robertson and (our very own!) renowned visual artist William Kentridge. 

The 2024 shortlisted titles are:

Not a River by Selva Almada (translated from Spanish by Annie McDermott)

Kairos by Jenny Erpenbeck (translated from German by Michael Hoffman) 

The Details by Ia Genberg (translated from Swedish by Kira Josefsson)

What I'd Rather Not Think About by Jente Posthuma (translated from Dutch by Sarah Timmer Harvey)

Mater 2-10 by Hwang Sok-yong (translated from Korean by Sora Kim-Russell and Youngjae Josephine Bae) 

Crooked Plow by Itamar Vieira Junior (translated from Portuguese by Johnny Lorenz)

The winning title will be announced in a ceremony at London's Tate Modern on May 21. 

The prize money of £50,000 is divided equally between author and translator, with each master of their craft receiving £25,000.

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"When Love Kills" - Real story about AKA and Anele Tembe told in a book #RHODurban

Prepare to be captivated by the upcoming book that delves into the tumultuous relationship of AKA and Anele Tembe. Renowned journalist Melinda Ferguson, known for her gripping exposés, has once again taken on the task of unravelling the complexities of a celebrity romance gone wrong.

Ferguson, who has previously written about Kelly Khumalo's fall from grace and the infamous Oscar Pistorius case, is set to release "When Love Kills" in April 2024. Published by NB Publishers, this book promises to shed light on the tragic events that unfolded between AKA and Anele during their ill-fated relationship.

The narrative of "When Love Kills" takes readers on a journey through the life of hip-hop sensation AKA, whose world turned upside down upon entering a relationship with the young and vibrant Anele Tembe. The book explores the toxic fixation, alleged substance misuse, and violence that characterized their time together.

Tragically, Anele met her untimely demise in April 2021, falling from the 10th floor of the Pepper Club after a night of heated arguments. Less than two years later, AKA himself met a violent end, sparking speculation of retribution for Anele's death.

With "When Love Kills," Ferguson weaves a compelling narrative that unravels the web of toxicity and tragedy surrounding this ill-fated couple. The book promises to keep readers hooked as it explores the dark underbelly of their relationship, ultimately leading to their heartbreaking demise.

Get ready to be immersed in a story that reveals the harsh realities of fame, love, and the consequences that can arise when toxic relationships take hold. "When Love Kills" is sure to be a gripping read that will leave readers contemplating the complexities of celebrity romances and the devastating impact they can have.

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Afro Poetry Times April 2024 issue is out!

Get ready to be entertained and inspired with the latest edition of Afro Poetry Times for April! This month's issue is packed with captivating content that will leave you in awe and craving more.

Featuring a Botswana poet who is deeply connected to the poetic spirit, an award-winning author who has launched a book in his hometown, and a talented poet who has had the honor of performing for the president, this edition is sure to ignite your passion for literature and creativity.

Discover the story of a young lady who is making her mark in the poetry world and climbing her way to the top. Plus, don't miss out on the exciting competitions where you can showcase your writing skills and have the chance to win real cash prizes.

Immerse yourself in unpublished short stories and poems that will transport you to different worlds and evoke a range of emotions. Get your digital copy of Afro Poetry Times from PressReader and get ready to be swept away by the power of words and storytelling.

https://www.pressreader.com/canada/afro-poetry-times/20240401/

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Tawanda Mulalu scoops US$1,000 in the Glenna Luschei Prize for African #Poetry

Tawanda Mulalu's poetry collection, "Please Make Me Pretty, I Don't Want to Die: Poems," has been announced as the winner of the prestigious Glenna Luschei Prize for African Poetry 2023. 

The award, named in honour of poet, publisher, editor, and philanthropist Glenna Luschei, is administered by the African Poetry Book Fund and recognizes outstanding works by African poets. Mulalu's collection, published by Princeton University Press, stood out among the finalists selected by judge John Keene, a MacArthur Fellow and esteemed writer, translator, and professor.

In his assessment of Mulalu's work, Keene praised the collection for its poignant exploration of contemporary realities faced by diasporic Black Africans in White spaces across America. Mulalu's poems, characterized by deadpan irony, humor, and a rich tapestry of literary and musical references, offer a unique perspective on personal and public events. 

From reflections on isolation and exile to poignant responses to societal issues like police violence, Mulalu's poetry navigates a wide range of themes with depth and originality.

Mulalu, originally from Gaborone, Botswana, expressed gratitude for the recognition, emphasizing his love for the people and poetry of the continent. The poet's debut collection has garnered critical acclaim, being hailed as the best poetry book of 2022 by esteemed publications such as The Boston Globe, The New York Times, and The Washington Post.

As the recipient of the Glenna Luschei Prize for African Poetry, Mulalu will receive a cash prize of US$1,000. 

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