Keorapetse Kgositsile Memorial Lecture October 2024 at Poetry Africa

Sarah Godsell voices responses with keynote speaker Dr Uhuru Phalafala, and poets Afurakan, Makhosazana Xaba and Frank Meintjies, and Siphindile Hlnongwa

The Keorapetse Kgositsile Memorial Lecture celebrates the legacy of one of Africa’s most influential poets. This event will delve into Kgositsile’s profound impact on poetry and his contributions to the literary world, with reflections and discussions on his lasting influence. Dr Uhuru Phalafala will present the lecture, hosted by Siphindile Hlongwa. The stage will also feature responses from Afurakan, Makhosazana Xaba, Frank Meintjies, and Sarah Godsell.

Source: Poetry Africa Festival 2024

Danai Mupotsa on the Cheeky Natives podcast

danai mupotsa, phd, dr danai mupotsa, cheeky natives, interview
Dr Danai Mupotsa, writer and lecturer in African Literature.

As a scholar and a writer Mupotsa is committed to feminist, queer and anti-racist praxis. At the time of the recording of the podcast, the final touches were being put to Danai’s first collection of poetry titled ‘feeling and ugly.’ Dr Alma-Nalisha Cele sat down with the quietly brilliant Dr Danai Mupotsa to discuss the practical application of her politics in both academic and lived practices as both a writer and academic. The conversation touched on motherhood and the interesting ways it has changed her feminism in both lighthearted and poignant ways that may resonate with many of our listeners.Of course, the interview would be incomplete if the literary influences of this scholar of African literature were not explored. There are entire reading lists for young Black readers contained in this podcast.At the time of release, Dr Danai Mupotsa’s collection of poetry had just launched to great acclaim. This podcast in many ways serves as a great prologue to her work, a recommendation of the highest order. “We are the ones we have been waiting for” – June Jordan The works of Danai Mupotsa are proof of just that.

Source: Cheeky Natives podcast

Folklore Festival 2024, Friday, 30 Aug

Folklore Festival 2024 FRINGE JHB: SPOKEN WORD
with vangile gantsho & MoAfrika Wa Mokgthi

Join the inter-generational conversation on our creative platform #WeTheFolk for 30 days of Contemplating 30 years of Freedom in 3 Cities on 30 August 2024 at the NSA Theatre

Fri Aug 30, 19:00 – 23:30
NSA Theatre, Tyrwhitt Ave & Cradock Ave, Rosebank, Johannesburg

Book: Quicket
Folklore community:

Sarah Godsell at Future Nation Schools

Sarah Godseel at Future Nation Schools

An honour beyond measure: Dr Sarah Godsell’s inspiring words filled our hearts at the Future Nation Schools’ Queen’s Day High Tea.

Sarah Godsell is a renowned South African poet, academic, and activist known for her profound insights and passionate advocacy for social justice. Born and raised in South Africa, Sarah’s journey has been marked by a commitment to using literature and academia as tools for empowerment and impactful change.

Watch how we celebrated the incredible mothers who light up our school community…

Video: Instagram

All African Women Poetry (AAWP) Festival wraps up, hosted successful four days Poetry & Play event, vangile gantsho was there!

vangile gantsho far left is a member of the small girl rising trio

Some of the scheduled guests, panelists and performers who attended the poetry festival were Moyosola Olowokure, Winnie Madoro, Nyangari Macharia, Claudia Owusu, Deborah Johnson, Effie Nkrumah, Titilope Sonuga, Maryam Bukar Hassan (Alhanislam), Mo’Africa Wa Mokgathi (born Muriel Mokgathi-Mvubu), vangile gantsho, Theresa Ankomah, Agness Panfred and Vivian Boeteng.

Source: AAWP festival

Video: vangile gantsho

Busisiwe Mahlanga

This is the sixth in a series of long-form interviews by Patron Makhosazana Xaba that focus on contemporary collections by Black women and non-binary poets.

An extended interview with Busisiwe Mahlangu

Busisiwe: I used to think ‘House’ was my most popular poem (and I stopped performing it because I wanted to be known for other works). A vivid moment stands out: during my Current State of Poetry showcase at the Joburg Theatre, the audience began reciting the poem with me on stage! It felt like the poetry version of a sing-along.  

Read more: Johannesburg Review of Books