Vendagalpoet sets sight on being published

LIMPOPO – It has been more than 10 years since Phathutshedzo Nembilwi first started writing and reciting poems, even though her work remains unpublished.

Popularly known as Tgal Vendagalpoet, the 22-year-old who hails from Fefe in Mutale recites some of the 40 Tshivenda and 49 English poems she has penned.

In 2021, she won the 4th Annual African Print Authors and Poetry Awards (Apapa) held at Soweto’s Uncle Tom’s Hall where one of her poems was voted poem of the year.

She also won the 2022 Niani Talent Show and this year won the Balethavha Talent Show (poetry category).

All she is aiming for now is to have her work published.

She said she first fell in love with poetry at her local ZCC church.

“We used to recite verses in church and then I started reciting poems at school. This was way back in 2013 whe I was in Gr 6. I became a top poet at secondary school. I have a big dream of one day becoming a national poet who recites my work in parliament and other places of importance. But my priority this year is to have my work published.”

Tgal Vendagalpoet indicated that she relies on shows and performances to spread her message.

“I am also assisting up-and-coming poets through my agency, Intelligent Young Gifted Agency which I founded in 2021. To the young girls out there I want to say young girls rise and unleash your full potential.”

Publishers who would like to assist can get into contact with her by phoning 079 323 4155.