Spiritual guide Dr Radebe's new book sparks excitement

Visitors to the Walmer Park Shopping Centre were treated to a spectacle of excitement and intellectual fervor as a lively crowd gathered outside Exclusive Books on Friday. 

The scene resembled a grand parade, complete with a red carpet and a group of cadets adding to the festive ambiance, all in anticipation of the book launch by the esteemed Imboni (spiritual guide) Dr Uzwi-Lezwe Radebe.

Dr Radebe's latest work, "An Introduction into Afrikan Indigenous Spirituality," delves into the intricate realms of spirituality, distinguishing between religion, universal spirituality, and African indigenous spirituality. This marks a significant shift for the author, who has previously focused on children's literature, including his recent release, "Trillion Dollar Kids: Agriculture and the Economy."

In discussing his motivations for the new book, Dr Radebe emphasized the need to reclaim and understand the spiritual heritage that has been obscured by colonial influences. He highlighted the impact of colonization on African spirituality, noting that the loss of this knowledge has contributed to the marginalized status of Africans worldwide.

"We must go back and trace our spiritual footsteps," Dr Radebe urged, underscoring the importance of reconnecting with indigenous spiritual practices that once informed every aspect of African life. He expressed concern over the prevailing lack of awareness about African spirituality and emphasized the need for relearning and unlearning outdated narratives.

The book challenges common misconceptions about African spirituality, debunking the notion that Africa is solely a religious continent. Drawing on research conducted by his institution, African Hidden Voices, Dr Radebe weaves together personal experiences and revelations to present a compelling narrative that calls on readers to explore their spiritual roots.

Shop manager Tiaan van der Merwe praised the book for adding a unique dimension to their shelves and acknowledged Dr Radebe's growing popularity among local readers. 

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Teens releases second book which hopes will inspire #BookLaunch#MiWayMondays

14-year-old Leila Phoenix Alexander from Mitchell's Plain has done it again; she will be launching her second book next month.

Barely 18 months after launching her first book, her second, titled: Invisible Teen Truth Hurts, on April 27, on Freedom Day.
Leila's first book, Young Mind Unspoken Thoughts: A Collection of Poems, brought her into contact with renowned authors and earned her recognition through a nomination for the 6th AfriCAN Annual Global Honoree Authors Awards, which featured 18 authors from the Western Cape.
Leila's mother, Karen Alexander said the latest book focuses on mental health, race, drug abuse and other issues.
The book is a compilation of poems and will be part of a series.
Extract: Addiction
Thinking it was a one time thing. Then it turned into a daily routine. Sniffing, puffing, smoking, choking.
Until it's just the right amount of zing.
Alexander said they were proud of Leila's maturity and desire to spread positivity and a message to other
youths.
"Although her first book was inspired by her grandmother, this opened up a new world for her," she said.
Invisible Teen will be a series of books she is writing whether it's poetry, short stories or art.
"Her poetry touches on race, drug abuse, mental health, discrimination, and helps boost confidence. It will help many realise that they do not need validation to see who they are.
"She also shares some background on what inspires her writing, including her artwork."
Alexander added Leila was writing her second portion for Invisible Teen.
Leila is currently in Grade 8 and is part of an online school academy.
"As parents, we are proud of her," added Alexander. She inspires young people to write and to be themselves.
"Everywhere she goes, she always finds a way to brighten someone's day even with a simple compliment."
Alexander said she could relate to the second book's poetry despite it being written by a child author which meant it would appeal to a wider audience as well.
"My opinion on this book is that it is stronger than her first," she said.
"Her voice is growing and one day it will be heard by many."
Leila explained she wanted her writing to have an impact on people's lives.
"I like the book because it has meaning and it has purpose," she said.
"It is something I did for myself and others, and I want to share whether one person reads it or millions."
To find out more about the book, contact Alexander.

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Mashoto Seropo becomes a published poet at the tender age of 16 #GirlTalkZA

A grade 12 learner from Rantobeng Senior Secondary School in Limpopo has published her first poetry book, aimed at healing people from the hardships they encounter in life.

At just 16 years old, one could be intrigued by what prompted the young, talented, and passionate poet to pen a poetry book.
Speaking to The Star, Mashoto Seropo said she had published her first Sepedi poetry book, Dikeledi gotšwa pelong yaka, which translates as "Tears from my heart". According to Mashoto, the high rates of oppression, violence and corruption in her province are the driving force behind the book of 42 poems.
"Every day I would wake up to saddening news that someone was raped or brutally killed and I hope this book will serve as a beacon of hope for people going through tricky times in their lives," she said.
Mashoto said it only took her a week to write all the poems in the book.
She explained that because of her love for writing, it was a piece of cake.
"It was not hectic, but instead it was fun and awesome. However, I had a lot of pressure but in a good way," she grinned.
Her poetry journey began at a young age, and it was fuelled by her love for writing and reading different books.
"I was only 11 years old in primary school, I vividly remember the day, and my Sepedi teacher would tell us to write down our poems and present them in front of other learners," she reminisced.
Following that, she said she was declared the top of her class, and this was when her passion for writing grew to another level.
Through her poetry, Mashoto also aims to motivate people from all walks of life, and to soothe the hearts of those who are going through difficult times in their lives.
"I want to motivate and remind people that life is unpredictable, and things don't
always go as planned. Hence, we must keep going, as the Pedi saying goes: kgotlelelo e tswala katlego, which translates to perseverance births success," she explained.
One of the poems she penned is Lehu (Death), which underscores the life experiences of death.
Mashoto emphasises that death can cause trauma and depression to those who lost their loved ones.
"The poem seeks to reassure people that there is life after death, regardless of how the death of our loved ones has broken our hearts."
She added: "At the end of the day, we have to heal and accept that as it is God's will and there's nothing we can do about it."
Filled with happiness and satisfaction, she said her book will keep the readers glued to their pages as she utilised a variety of Sepedi idioms that will keep them wanting to read more.
This young woman with a gift of writing poems is thrilled to have published her first poetry book and anticipates writing more in the future.
"I aspire to write more poetry books and would be beyond excited if my books could be read and examined in schools."

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Afro Poetry Times exclusive interview with Alysia Harris who was recently in South Africa

The Afro Poetry Times caught up with revered American poet Alysia Harris, who was recently in Pretoria attending a poetry workshop which was organised by the US Embassy and Consulates in South Africa.

The workshop brought together 15 aspiring poets from across South Africa with the final slam being held on March 19 at the Javett Center.

Harris rubbed shoulders with some of South Africa's renowned poets such as Xabiso Vili and Busisiwe Mahlangu.

Interview was done by Farai Diza.

More information about the program can be found here:  YOUR VIEW – YOUR VOICE – YOUR POETRY – YOUR VIDEO - U.S. Embassy & Consulates in South Africa (usembassy.gov)

What inspired you to start writing poetry, and how did you develop your unique voice and style over the years?

 

Inspiration literally means to breathe in. Originally it had a spiritual connotation. Inspiration was something that was breathed into you by the Divine. So I would say that the Holy Spirit inspired me to start writing poetry. 

 

I first started writing when I was 10. My 5th grade teacher, Ms. Christiano, wrote a Shakespearean sonnet on the board and instantly I recognized a kindred spirit. I knew I could do that. I already was doing that in my mind, I just didn't know that it was called poetry. I'm so grateful to her for giving me a name for my impulse to seek out curious and gorgeous words. 

 

I wouldn't say I intentionally developed my poetic style, though I still hope to do that. I think my creative self developed like a child develops. Of course there was direct instruction, but there was a lot I picked up by passive observation and absorption. I learned a lot, probably the most, from my peers: Ben Alisuag, Joshua Bennett, Aysha El Shamayleh, Chloe Wayne, Ibrahim Jaaber, Ibraheem Basir,  Zora Howard, Jasmine Mans, Carvens Lissaint, Miles Hodges, and Raliq Bashard. I also learned from mentors like Just Greg, Queen GodIs, and Carlos Andrés Gomez, and from the other poets I was slamming against. Some of these people won't be names others recognize, but my friends were the poets I looked up to. They were the people I wanted to impress. 

 

Can you discuss your creative process when crafting a poem? Do you have any specific rituals or routines that help you in your writing?

 

Recently, I haven't been writing poems. I say that to my heartache. The poems are on vacation for the time being while I've been working on a book about biblical wisdom. 

 

But when it comes to routines. I typically write first thing in the morning. Before I start writing anything, I begin with a prayer of invitation to God, thanking him for inspiration, the gift of being able to write, and for whatever emerges from the process. I find this helps me to write from a place of faith rather than anxiety. Approaching the blank page can sometimes be daunting for me. A prayer reminds me that I don't have to approach it alone. 

 

How do you approach themes and topics in your poetry? Are there recurring motifs or subjects that you find yourself drawn to? 

 

I used to write a lot about love and heartbreak. Those themes can apply personally but they can also apply politically. These days I am writing poems that are more geared towards the relationship between the body and the spirit. What spiritual insights arrive at me from my body, from my female anatomy? What spiritual insights help me live into my body more deeply? Everything whispers of God. I'm trying to quiet my anxiety long enough to listen. 

 

As an international poet, how do you navigate cultural differences and language barriers in your work? How does your background influence your poetry?

 

I have the fortune of writing in the world's current lingua franca which gives my poetry a pretty big audience. 

 

About seven years ago though, I was teaching poetry workshops in Amman. This program was also hosted by the US embassy. While teaching and performing, I had to work through a translator because I knew very little Arabic.

 

I couldn't appreciate the full beauty of the participants' poems because the language and its particular poetics was lost to me. But it was an incredible experience to see how poetry could still bring people together despite being separated by language and culture. 

 

Can you share some insights into the impact of your poetry on different audiences around the world? How do you connect with readers from diverse backgrounds?

 

 Frazelle Arries from Cape Town wrote me a letter. In it she thanked me for choosing to be the kind of poet who cares for an audience. Receiving letters like that means everything to me. 

 

For years I was seeking validation when I went on stage. But now I more so hope to tell the truth of my life, and by doing that, I hope that someone feels cared for and a little less alone. That's the bottomless ache of all human beings. It's an ache that needs endless tending. I think poems can help clean and bandage those wounds. 

 

What advice would you give to aspiring poets who are looking to make a mark in the literary world? How can emerging poets hone their craft and find their voice in a competitive landscape?

Read a lot of poetry. Listen to a lot of poetry. Ask questions of the poem and try to find the answers in the poem. Treat poems as little worlds of wonder. 

 

Perform as much as possible to build your comfort with the stage. Surround yourself with other poets and you'll grow just by the nature of the company you keep. 

 

As for finding your voice—I'm not sure that you find your voice. It's always there within you. You just have to trust it. That takes patience and courage and a lot of encouragement from others. 

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Talented student pens hearty poetry journal

Talented Redwood College grade 7 pupil Lutho Nongogo Mtila used spontaneous moments of expression when she wrote her published poetry journal, Colours of the Rainbow.

It highlights the importance of diversity, coexistence and respect for one another.
Lutho follows in the footsteps of her father, Philani Nongogo.
He is the principal author of the book Umbhoxo: Making Rugby an Afrikan Game, which was launched in the metro in January.
Lutho said her work emphasises the importance of people coexisting despite having different backgrounds.
Her work can be found in Imbiza Journal for African Writing: Nourishing the Mind Volume 1, Issue 4.
"What led to my writing was that I was struggling with issues of racial abuse and people close to me were downplaying my experience.
"I was able to express my frustration and hurt, and get comfort through poetry.
"It is a way that helps me communicate my deep emotions."
She said she used spontaneous moments to take a few minutes to write down her emotions and ideas.
"Writing is my way of life and form of expression.
"My father always encourages us [she and her siblings] to read and write what we want and like.
"It could be for fun and for expressing ourselves together."
Lutho said she was always encouraged by her father to make reading part of her routine.
Her poetry is targeted at both young and old.
"It is targeted at everyone, I believe, but more so my peers and teachers."
She said she wrote poetry on the go and whenever she was inspired.
She uses it to pour out her heart — and she uses a pen and paper, rather than a phone or computer, to do so.
Lutho is working closely with Kwazithina publishers, which is run by Nomawele Njongo, where she shares her most recent ideas and work.
Teacher Marita Venter said Lutho was an exceptional pupil who was friendly and wellmannered.
"Last year she was one of the pupils who did really well.
"She excelled in her tests and she really worked hard.
"She has mastered the English language, especially her grammar.
"Even during orals she reads well."

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Dont miss Poetry Pod, a monthly poetry sharing session at the Goethe-Institut South Africa

 Poetry Pod is a poetry reading circle for anyone who is interested to share their poetry in their chosen language with others and celebrate freedom of expression.
The Poetry Pod is our monthly poetry sharing session at the Goethe-Institut South Africa; it is a relaxed and emotionally safe space intended for poetry lovers to come share their work and give each other thoughtful and constructive feedback. All who want to attend are asked to bring three poems to share.
Express yourself in your mother tongue! Join our poetry circle and share your poetry. Receive feedback and learn to express yourself succinctly. Every 3rd Wednesday of the month, 18:30 – 21:00. No registration needed. We look forward… and back.
Learn more: https://www.goethe.de/ins/za/en/ver.cfm?event_id=25231070 

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Angela Makholwa to take part at the Franschhoek Literary Festival 2024

Bookworms are in for a treat in the month of May as the Franschhoek Literary Festival 2024 has announced its programme list of esteemed local, pan-Africanist and international authors.
The three-day literary festival will host authors and lovers of their masterpieces from May 17 to 19 in the Cape Winelands.
The festival, which is held annually over the third weekend of May, boasts an eclectic mix of voices from various genres, providing attendees with a unique opportunity to engage with their favourite authors.
The Franschhoek Literary Festival is regarded as "the literary event of the year".
Programme director Jennifer Ball says the festival promises an enriching experience, featuring a thought-provoking panel of discussions, in-depth author interviews, poetry readings, interactive writing workshops and Melodies in Words.
"We are thrilled and honoured to include these authors on our programme this year, and to celebrate and amplify voices and stories from the
African continent," she said.
This year's festival guest list has heavyweight local authors and poets, with their featured work. They include
Angela Makholwa, author of The Reed Dance Stalker – her book Red Ink has been adapted as a series on Showmax; Busisekile Khumalo, author of
Sunshine and Shadows and the best seller The Harvard Wife; and Collective Amnesia poet Koleka Putuma whose new collection of poems is titled We Have Everything We Need To Start Again.
Other featured writers are Andrew Brown, author of The Bitterness of Olives, and Margie Orford, author of the long-anticipated memoir, Love and Fury, among other local writers.
The festival will be treating guests with a list of both established and new pan-Africanist voices such as Adekeye Adebajo, columnist, editor and author of The Curse of Berlin: Africa after the Cold War and Thabo Mbeki: Africa's Philosopher-King, and crime fiction writer Femi Kayode, author of Gaslight, who grew up in Nigeria and lives in Namibia; and Kenyan rookie author Irene Muchemi-Ndiritu, whose debut novel, Lucky Girl, will be featured. She has been shortlisted for the Commonwealth Short Story Prize.
In addition to these respected and stimulating voices, the festival will host esteemed international authors who will be adding a global perspective to the event, such as British-Nigerian writer Bolu Babalola. Her 2022 debut novel, Honey & Spice, was shortlisted for the British Book Awards and won the TikTok Book Awards of the Year.
Among other trailblazers is bestseller novelist from Dublin in Ireland, Cecelia Ahern. Her book PS, I Love You
has been translated into 35 languages and sold over 25 million copies in more than 50 countries. Her latest novel, In a Thousand Different Ways,
was released last year.
Another featured international guest will be David Walliams, whose novel The Boy in the Dress has sold more than 56 million copies globally, and whose books have been translated into 55 languages across 40 titles.
Popular English crime writer Lynda la Plante will be featured virtually. She is the author of more than 40 novels. Her latest work is Alibi: A Trial & Retribution.
Franschhoek Literary Festival members will receive early access to tickets, with sales having gone live on Webtickets since March 8.
Ticket sales for the general public open today.
For further information, email info@webtickets.co.za

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