MBABANE – Dynamites come in small packages!
This couldn’t be any truer as a seven-year-old, second grade pupil, young poet Siya Goje is set to take on one of his biggest challenges yet, headlining the 3rd Edition of Poetry In Comfort.
The young poet has already made a name for himself through his appearances on some of the country’s major stages and events. His selection as the headliner for this year’s Poetry In Comfort is being viewed as an exciting opportunity to showcase the incredible talent and potential that exists among Eswatini’s young people.
For Siya, the opportunity comes with both excitement and a sense of responsibility. At his young age, he is excited to take on the challenge of being the face of a major poetry production and to share his gift with an audience that appreciates poetry and the performing arts. “I am very excited and grateful for the opportunity to headline Poetry In Comfort. I know it is a big challenge, but I am ready to give my best and show people what young poets can do,” he said. His participation is also expected to inspire other young people to believe in their abilities and pursue their talents regardless of their age. The Director of Poetry In Comfort, Sibonokuhle Simelane, says he is extremely excited about this year’s edition and believes the decision to place Siya at the centre of the production represents the spirit of the event creating a platform where talent can be celebrated and experienced differently. “I am extremely excited about this year’s Poetry In Comfort. Having Siya Goje as our headliner is very special because he represents the incredible young talent we have in Eswatini. At only seven years old, he has already demonstrated courage, confidence and an impressive passion for poetry,” Simelane says.
He adds that this year’s production will bring together some of the country’s finest poets and musicians, creating an experience that combines poetry, music and comfort in one setting. “Poetry In Comfort is not simply a poetry show. It is an experience. We want people to come, relax on our comfortable couches, listen to powerful poetry, enjoy great music and celebrate the talent that Eswatini has to offer,” said Simelane.
Siya will, therefore, not be performing alone. He will be joined on stage by other outstanding poets and musicians, with the full line-up set to be unveiled as preparations for the event continue. As preparations intensify, the Poetry In Comfort team is appealing to the people of Eswatini, businesses, companies, organisations and other stakeholders to support the initiative. Simelane says support can come in different forms, including purchasing tickets, sponsoring the event, partnering with the production, providing services or contributing towards the development of the arts and young talent. He believes that supporting Poetry In Comfort goes beyond supporting one event, as it contributes towards creating platforms for young poets, musicians and creatives to develop, perform and be recognised.
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