Mashudu Mambo
Nomqhele Nkomo from Bulawayo has defied all odds and created a successful career as a poet, model and fashion designer.
Nkomo is a member of the WeCre8te, an initiative that was founded by Sox the Poet that mentors female poets.
Nkomo’s journey as a poet started earlier this year and she has managed to secure a number of gigs and share stages with a number of prominent spoken word artists.
“My journey started when l was in primary school, I used to write poems and my first performance was when l was in high school. This was when l realised my love and passion for the craft. In January this year, l started doing poetry professionally and I am glad that I am starting to see its rewards ,” she said.
She stated that she has had the opportunity to perform with a number of artists in the city. “As a newbie in the industry, l have performed at a number of WeCre8te events and over the past weekend, l had an opportunity to perform as an opening act for Frank Charisa’s Funny Stories That Heal. It was the greatest experience of my life as l was given a platform to showcase my skills, and I am glad that the audience was amazing and super responsive,” she said.
Nkomo indicated that there are a number of stereotypes associated with poets like depression. “There is a myth that poets are depressed, which is not true because poets simply use lyrics to express themselves. There is a lot of authenticity in poetry. These stereotypes have affected the growth of the craft in the city as there are a few people who can clear their schedules to attend poetry shows,” she said.
Nkomo urged people who are looking forward to being poets to work hard and find their niche. “I would like to urge aspiring poets to work hard on their craft and look for various platforms to showcase their skills. The first few months may not be rewarding, but persisting and developing your skills has results in the long run,” she said.
