Local writer rallies forces to revive writing culture in Alex
Siyabulela Mokebe is calling on authors from Alexandra to join forces and create a WhatsApp group that will foster a community of writers to share experiences and support each other in their writing journeys.
With a vision to revive the writing culture in his hometown of Alexandra, author, Tamanna for Change co-founder, and teacher at Hyde Park High School Siyabulela Mokebe is rallying authors from Alex to join forces with him in creating a WhatsApp group.
Mokebe said he had the opportunity to connect with authors from Ekurhuleni through a different WhatsApp group where they shared experiences, supported each other, and learned from one another.
“I benefitted a lot from being in that group. I even had the opportunity to visit Thobela FM because of some group members. Also, people share their triumphs and disappointments for moral support. Being in that group was worth it, even though I sometimes felt like an outsider when I couldn’t attend some of the events at Ekurhuleni because of the distance.
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“This made me realise that creating a similar group in Alexandra will be much more beneficial and convenient for me since I grew up there, and I’m much more passionate about the development of my township,” Mokebe said.
Mokebe said he envisions a platform where Alex authors can come together, share their work, and support each other in their writing journeys.
“We can use this platform to share our writing, receive constructive feedback, collaborate on projects and anthologies that showcase the diverse voices of Alexandra, offer moral support and encouragement to help each other overcome writing obstacles, and share resources and opportunities for professional development. Discuss topics relevant to our community and how we can use our writing to make a positive impact.
“By doing so, we won’t only improve our craft, but also inspire the Alex youth to develop a love for reading and writing so that we can try and curb the illiteracy that has been reported as plaguing the grade 4s’ of RSA,” Mokebe said.
Mokebe added that he cannot change the country because he is not affiliated with anyone in power, but he can do ‘a little amongst like-minded people’ to help each other write about their own experiences, avoid common pitfalls, and take any advantages they may find.
Details: Siyabulela Mokebe 068 085 5073.
