WINNING several KZN poetry titles was just a beginning for eSikhaleni-born poet Mbali ‘Magcwabe’ Mkhize (24).
The emerging Zululand ‘Queen of poetry’ in now a finalist for two major SA awards.
She has been nominated under the Best Poet category, in both the South African Traditional Music Achievement Awards (SATMA), and the South Africa Volunteer Awards 2015 (SAVA).
The former North Coast Radio current affairs presenter shares both categories with well-known poets, Sbo-The Poet and Siyabonga Mpungose.
‘It’s an honour to be nominated for such big awards, especially alongside people I respect in the industry,’ said Magcwabe.
She is a third year accounting student at uMfolozi TVET College, and she is no stranger to Zululand.
This vibrant poet has made a name for herself on big stages.
Tackles social issues
She has performed alongside the best in the country including The Soil, Ntando, Mxolisi Mtshali, Syabonga Mpungose to name a few.
Her stage presence and unique poems such as ‘Bayeke bagqoloze’, ‘Kwanele Manje’ and ‘Africa Unite’ have scooped numerous accolades including Best Poet during the KZN College Roadshow in 2013 and 2014.
She has also been part of the Vuka Mzansi show with Linda Sibiya in, and the poetry show by Bongani Mavuso on uKhozi FM.
Through her writing, she tackles social ills, politics, women and human rights.
Mbali is also part of the eZulution Thursday, and teaches other inspiring poets to master their talents.
Last year not only was she honoured by her college, she was also granted an opportunity to write a poem about road safety by the KZN MEC Transport and Community Liaison, Willies Mchunu.
Her love of languages, recitals and praise for Amakhosi keeps moving her up the entertainment ladder.
