While the majority of his peers are mainly focusing on completing their National Senior Certificates (NSC) 20-year-old Momelezi Kanyiwe is currently making a name for himself.
The Grade 12 learner from Matthew Goniwe High School in Site B has published his debut anthology, a collection of his poetry, to inspire other young writers.
- His book, titled consists of 46 isiXhosa poems.
Kanyiwe says he uses pen and paper to express himself, and started writing at an early age.
“I like playing with words, even when I’m speaking,” he said. “I write about everything depending on the mood at a particular time.”
Kanyiwe started assembling the collection in 2019, and his objective was to preserve his language.
He stated the vernacular languages in South Africa are fading away, with most young people preferring to speak English.
“To me it is not about writing Xhosa poems, but I want to demonstrate and encourage young people to believe in themselves. Speaking your own language can take you far.”
Talking about his artwork, Kanyiwe said he writes about different things, which include love, his experience and current affairs. His wish is to see a surge in the number of young black writers.
The soft-spoken writer highlighted lack of funds as major obstacles for many young writers. “My biggest wish is to see my book being part of the school curriculum so the learners can read it,” he said, adding that his favourite writer is Nolubabalo Rani.
Kanyiwe said his book is available from Clarke’s Bookshop in Long Street, Cape Town at R150 per copy, or from him.
- Those wishing to buy it can contact him on 076 374 4979.