By: Vuyo Cebekhulu
Tshwane University of Technology students unite each other by hosting a poetry day at Soshanguve South Campus, 16 May 2024 that took place from 15h00 to 18h00. As the event began, they started with rejoicing by singing and doing a little dance.
Poetry day is a celebration of the art and power of poetry, and for students, it is a day that brings creativity and expression to the forefront of their educational experience. Poetry day encourages students to engage with poems, both classic and contemporary, and to explore their own poetic talents. Poetry day is more than just an event, it is a movement that aims to ignite a passion for poetry among young minds. The event accommodated everyone including, Zulu, Pedi, Xhosa and many more. By delving into the world of verse, students are introduced into the beauty of language and the profound impact words can have.
Sindiswa Hlongwane, popularly known by her stage name ‘Sindiswa Izwi Elisha’ is a student at Tshwane University of Technology. She started writing poems at Grade 09 in High school and realized in Grade 10 that she loved poetry. “At first I thought it was a hobby only to realize finding myself sometimes writing them at night out of the blue,” she said.
Sindiswa performed at the South Campus poetry day in front of other students who attended the event. “Okay at first, I was scared to actually see a lot of people, especially those who I do not know. Sometimes what scares the most is that people won’t understand what you are saying or how they will take it.”
“After I stood at the stage and did my poem, I felt relieved and got the confirmation that
what i am doing is a great thing from the crowd and it is soothing to other students who
attended,” she continued.
Participating in Poetry Day has numerous benefits for students. It enhances their language skills. As students immerse themselves in the rhythm and resonance of poetry, they not only celebrate an art form but also discover the limitless possibilities within themselves.
(PICTURE OF A STUDENT DOING POETRY)
The Soshanguve poetry show was formed by Bongumenzi Zungu, he mentioned that the reason why he formed this show is because he is the kind of person who loves poetry, loves watching events that are more about poetry, and other related to it. Bongumenzi commented,” here in Soshanguve poetry is something that is unknown to the people, I mostly see this being done in KZN, so that is why I ended up thinking I should try it out here and gather students to experience such beauty, and I want to gather those who are also interested in poetry,” he said.
“i work hand-in-hand with the INGOBOCO CULLTURAL GROUP and the creators of the cultural group namely, Sakhile Mpanza, Sphesihle ‘Gcwabe’ from main campus, Gadla from Ga-Rankuwa, Mcebisi Nzibande ‘kiss weqaba’, and the DSD Thulani,” he said.
