THE SAILORS REVIEW 63RD ISSUE (23 OCTOBER 2022)

il o rs Review

“If I read it! Then everyone will read it”

STUCK TO THE ROOTS WITH PRINCESSLY

PUBLISHER’S NOTE PRINCESS D MUSONZA STUCK TO THE ROOTS WITH PRINCESSLY ART

Getting to know Her Royal Highness better

Myname is Princess D. Musonza a.k.a Princess The Poetess. I got crown named Your Highness at birth. I am proud and happy to introduce myself to everyone. It is an honour to not only have graduated from The Sailors Club this year, but to have sailed with VaChikepe and the rest of the Sailors for over 5 years to date. The experience has been educational to me as an artist and earnestly speaking, that alone motivates and inspires me to be the best artist I can ever be.

Foremost, it was through my Grade 6 teacher's marking comments that I realized I am a writer. This was Mrs Nyirenda at Mwanandishe Primary school in Tafara, Harare. At one point, she asked me to write an essay which was meant to be presented at a schools competition. The topic of the essay was "How would you like to see Zimbabwe in 10 years from now?" I can vividly remember how that gracious opportunity beckoned. However, it was very unfortunate that I got disqualified for not wearing a proper uniform. In 2005 I joined the now defunct Young Africa Arts Club, which used to be a part of the famous Chitungwiza-based Young Africa Skills Centre. My active participation saw me fluidly showcasing my talent of writing poetry. I should quickly mention that I am not involved in any other form of art, although I used to act and dropped this theatrical side some years back.

PUBLISHER’S NOTE

PRINCESS D MUSONZA STUCK TO THE ROOTS WITH PRINCESSLY ART

I conceptually define poetry as the best way to communicate ideas, information and perceptions. It is a good medium to use to get through to the people. For this reason, I could not be left out on contributing towards the compilation and publi cation of Don't Give Up Africa in 2018. I submitted two poems namely, The warrior of my life and Nehanda nyakasikana. My involvement turned out to be one of my best life experiences.

Generally, the way I come up with a poem depends on the given theme. On some occassions, my poems come to me in the form of a dream. My only challenge is that sometimes I fail to remember some of the poems, but I can also say with ease, that I write from what I see and feel.

I am most fortunate to have exhibited some of my art in public platforms. It is a challenge to perform infront of an audience, especially for first timers. The first time I presented a poem publicly at a grand stage, I forgot my lines. That was in 2007 at the Harare International Festival for Arts with the theme 'I have a dream.' I was able to quickly cover up before the audience noticed. The ululations got to my heart and I knew that I had done well.

In the future I would like to focus my work more on the cultural aspect of life. This desire has seen me titling my upcoming album Restore Identity Volume 1. It is on my wishlist to change the way African Traditional Religion (A.T.R) is looked at. I want to see people going back to their ancestral way of worship ping the Creator. In our culture, our ancestors would forward their grievances to the Creator through their forefathers. They would acknowledge, honour and respect their forefathers. However, this has changed in recent years. Family trees have been lost, regard for ancestors has diminished and some end up marrying their blood brothers/sisters or relatives. I am looking forward to witnessing a big change on our customs, beliefs, culture and traditions. My above mentioned album is poetry filled with mbira background.

There are different artists in the art industry who are my role models. Takudzwa Chikepe (VaChikepe The Poet) is one of my role models. I look up to him, he has been an inspiration to me mainly because of the poetry world which evolves around him. I see myself following in his footsteps. He appreciates any form of art and encourages artists to reach for greater heights. Another role model is David Mungoshi, the late.

It is not easy to become a star. Hardwork and dedication are the fuel to great achievement.

I am reachable by way of calls, sms and WhatsApp on +26377 485 1808.

PUBLISHER’S NOTE PRINCESS D MUSONZA STUCK TO THE ROOTS WITH PRINCESSLY ART

TRUST

Takudzwa Chikepe seremumu@gmail.com

FOUNDER AND CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Brian Tawanda Manyati tawandamanyati@gmail.com

FINANCE & ADMINISTRATIVE DIRECTOR

Martin Chivaku chivakum@gmail.com

MARKETING AND DIGITAL STRATEGY DIRECTOR

Sithembeni Tanya Madziwa madziwathembie@gmail.com

BOARD SECRETARY AND CONTENT PRODUCTION

DIRECTOR

Tatenda Murangi sibucohub@gmail.com

EDITORIAL AND DESIGING DIRECTOR

THE SAILORS REVIEW

Publisher T.P Chikepe seremumu@gmail.com

PUBLISHER

Learnmore Chikuwe mcmassivestudios@fnbconnect.co.za

GROUP DESIGNER

Violin Chipamaunga chipviolin18@gmail.com

PROOF READER

Tallence Sanyangowe tallencesanyangowe@gmail.com

GROUP PUBLICIST

Tirivanhu Gono tirinelson.ten@gmail.com

PHOTOGRAPHER

THE SAILORS REVIEW is published forthnightly by Publisher T.P Chikepe (Private) Limited (12431/2020), in Zimbabwe, Southern Africa. No article in this publica tion should be used without a clear permission from the publisher. Failure to invite our consent will attract legal action.

The Sailors Review 2022(c) For more information about this publication, please contact us via mobile : seremumu@gmail.com

772 488 777)

919 937 4319

VISION

Grooming world class artists through appreciating poetry and other forms of Art

MISSION

To publish the power of Poetry and promote other forms of art by creating a sustainable worksta tion for artists, to fully connect with each other and the world at large

GOALS

Enhance quality products and services

Increase brand awareness Redefine the meaning of Art and its power Being resilient and sustainable

Schedule regular online training seminars Invite different trade experts for workshops

Promote group competitions and awards among artists

Discover and incorporate outstanding artists Make use of social media and all media institutions Encourage quality art production and funding superlative projects

Creative outreach programs for schools and the communities at large Organize International tours and invite artists in resonance Build a culture of humility and respect To inspire the whole world to be an inspiration

OBJECTIVES VALUES

Passion Commitment

Teamwork attitude

Transparency and professionalism

Respect, honesty and trust

Humility and thoughtfulness

Every artist matters Embrace deep artistic research

A lifetime of creating, publishing and sharing art Gifts oriented approach

Be a visionary and nurture more visionaries

NAVIGATING UNCHARTED WATERS

WORDS IN VERSE I:

THE JOURNEY OF LIFE

ONE VOICE MORE MUSIC:

RICHIE INNOCENT

WORDS IN VERSE II :

POETRY FROM AMERICA

ARTIST LOUNGE I :

SHOES LAMBADA

ARTIST LOUNGE II:

BRENARDO

SPECIAL MENTION:

APPRECIATING SIGN LANGUAGE IN POETRY

THE GLOBAL ANTI-HUNGER POETRY READING AND FUNDRAISER

ARTIST LOUNGE III:

QUEEN KARMALA

ARTIST LOUNGE IV:

ELLAYA

IN THE NEWS:

GINJAH

WORDS IN VERSE III:

DANIEL OGBONNA

BY SIGHT:

THE NARRATIVE

PROGRESS MUWADZURI

RUTENDO SAWALA

PROGRESS MUWADZURI

WORDS IN VERSE IV:

NHETEMBO

UNLOCKING GREATNESS

AHOY

Princess D. Musonza, Martin Chivaku, Ruvimbo Munozohamba, Brendon Chipandara, PIKITAYI: The Poet, Richie Innocent (Ja maica), Ogbonna Chimaobim Daniel (Nigeria), Ankwasa Harlord (Uganda), Wanda Dewdrops (Kenya), Afolabi Faruq O (Nigeria), VaChikepe: The Poet, Idorenyin (USA), Shoes Lambada, Brenardo (USA), DrThembieTanya, Brian Manyati, Queen Karmala (Jamaica), Towandah Ryan, Ellaya, Miss Fit, Ginjah (Jamaica), Progress Muwadzuri, Rutendo Sawala, Frank Nyamundero, Brother Takudzwa Chikepe, Tiry Nelson Gono, Ron Porter, Por trait or, Neil Moll, Ordinary1, Clay LeConey, Babur Yakur

LIST OF CONTRIBUTORS

WORDS IN VERSE I:

SWASTIKA ON THE HILL

They invited me!

They called unto me! They called unto me! They invited me!

I...heeded to the call

Yes, I went there and It was a new experience!

It was a rather new life

It was...perhaps, good!

So, I didn't see God

But all I saw were "gods"

Like, God wasn't there

He was probably still Indulging in the Comfort of the Seventh day!

The picture I saw, showed A dead God, but, he was alive

And was probably on a sabbatical

Because he perhaps felt the Need of him wasn't needed.

It's so hard a thing

To neglect God, because How many people do you Got left to neglect after God?

The picture I saw, made Me develop goosebumps

Because I knew everything Was about to hit rock Bottom as God was Probably dead!

I didn't see God in the place

Yet, they called the four walls, "The house of God!" and I Felt the hypocrisy in the Air, so thick, that we Could cut it with a Knife!

I mean, he wasn't there!

I mean, what if he was Actually dead?

They could've killed him With their preachings, their Prophecies, their praising, Their prayers which Exalted the devil!

I mean they probably Worshipped the devil in Disguise. Their ignorance Made them descendants Of hell when in actual Fact, they all meant To go to heaven!

So, my prayer was to prove My myself holier than Thou and deceive God like all of Them but... I mean...

My soul became The poorest and I Hope to never feel the Heat of the devil's dutch Oven as I wear my Perussian blue Garment.

By Martin Chivaku @DA_Scripta

VACHIKEPE AND THE 100 SAILORS: 23.10.2022

WORDS IN VERSE I THE JOURNEY OF LIFE VACHIKEPE AND THE 100 SAILORS

We Move

I hang with letters in motivational books

The words appetizing, for that's what the author cooks

Aiming for the message not how the outer cover looks

I used to skate on my dreams

Playing ping pong with my future

Seeing my peers making it to Hong Kong

I realized, I was a monkey pretending To be King Kong

My pockets were as arid as the Sahara

When others counted cheques, I counted my problems

I became broke of patience

For I paid attention to the wrong things in life

A slap of reality brought me back to my senses

In my hands, accumulated cents

My sweat produced sweet results

And I made my way to greener pastures

Success is indeed contagious

As the spirit of hardwork has located me It is diffusing to all who surround me Letting my brain think of new inventions

I might as well reach the stratosphere

And ride my mind to space

Since imagination can take us anywhere Our hands are meant to work not only cap

So we move in this journey

To make the best of our days

By Ruvimbo Munozohamba

munozohambaruvimbo@gmail.com +263774767346

WORDS IN VERSE I THE JOURNEY OF LIFE VACHIKEPE AND THE 100 SAILORS

Plain Mess

The journey into a hot desert, hot and dry You can breathe the hot air and sigh Like a chameleon you can feel not to try To step the foot and meet the other stage. Because life is difficult and that isn't a lie

Into the wet lands, rainy and wet The foot can be stuck in the mud But be viligitant and don't be off the guard To step the foot and meet the other stage. And remember the journey is so hard.

And into a dust road, dusty and bumpy Will be ear piercing and the negatives very noisy But don't mind the words and step ahead because the journey is uneasy.

Like a millipede, if a head off, it drives to another new way So be it, because life is what you make it.

aka Goofy

WORDS IN VERSE I

A POET’S POVERTY

Is it better to be poor?

With slumbering nights

To wake up searching

For sustenance of own soul

Than be rich in self

Filled with pains

Rather to be forgotten

And joys rather to not

I do not know which is better Whether by this pen

I put my head down to sleep

On dreams and pleasures of words

Or I seal myself to a fate of shouldn’t have done

In case I don’t wake up the next day

I wonder will I still die

Or will something of me be left standing up

To name rich and poor,

To those left reading behind me

Will I be at peace?

Will these pieces be enough to bring rest to my soul?

I can only hope Oh! My soul

That God will allow it all to be left behind With words I will leave myself with everyone

And these pieces etched within poetry will bring peace everywhere

To torment pain to its death

By PIKITAYI The Poet aka Angela

Rugara

https://vachikepe.100sailors.org/ angelarugara@yahoo.com

2022 Anita McAndrews Award Poetry Contest

Theme is Human Rights – Unsung Heroes.

“Where, after all, do universal human rights begin? In small places, close to home—so close and so small that they cannot be seen on any maps of the world.” Eleanor Roosevelt

The call is for poems inspired by a living person with whom you are personally acquainted, who has championed human rights through service or deeds. The unsung hero should not be a celebrity, famous or a high profile public figure.

No rants, protest poems or political poems, please.

Familiarity with the Universal Decla ration of Human Rights is recom mended.

First prize: US$200 Second prize: US$100.

Submissions deadline: Sunday, November 20, 2022 midnight

Guidelines: Any poetic style or form is allowed.

Formatting – left-justified (no centering or shape poems). No color. No graphics. Font size

- 12 point. Length limit – 1 page 8 1/2 x 11

No simultaneous submissions or previously published poems.

Foreign language poems are welcome, however ensure to include translation in English.

Cover sheet must include your name, address, phone number, email address, poem title, permission to publish and a brief biography in the body of email.

Submit entry to poetsforhumanrights@gmail.com, in the body of the email, or as pdf attachments only. No word documents, hyperlinks or third party media will be accepted.

Visit poetswithoutborders.org to read the winning poems for 2021 Anita McAndrews Award poetry contest, or March 2022 edition of The Sailors Review on links below: https://issuu.com/the_sailors_ review/docs/13_march_2022_the_ sailors_review_56th_issue

According to Maya Angelou, “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel”.

This is an amazing definition of Art, especially Music! I have listened to MbiraDzeNharira’s music intensively and exten sively from 2008-2015 and I came to conclude that Mbira Music is the Best Music from Africa and from the Ancient times.

This musical instrument has been played by the Shona people for over 1,000 years and other versions of it has existed from time immemorial:

REMBWA INSTRUMENTAL:

For more

contact

According to Michael Bassey Johnson...

"When you are convinced that what you offer is yours, whether it be mediocre or of standard quality, your originality will make people love you in a way you did not expect"

Congratulations Joseph Matanhire also known as MJAY NORTON Music is a beautiful journey and we are going to sail ⛵️ with you through this lovely meditation, you have shared with us today!

Michael Bassey Johnson, concludes by saying...

"Life begins when you start something, and blooms when you keep doing it."

Friends and family click on the links to hear the song entitled, “TISANETSANE" by MJAYNORTON!

LISTEN, MEDITATE, ENJOY AND SHARE WITH OTHERS

1. Apple Music 2. Spotify 3. Amazon Music 4. YouTube:

AND THE 100 SAILORS: 23.10.2022

Here is my Latest Poem is entitled, “How Far Are We From Food?“

“U.N. development goals call for ending extreme poverty and having zero hunger by 2030, but the report says projections indicate that 8% of the world's popula tion — nearly 670 million people — will be facing hunger at the end of the decade. That is the same number of people as in 2015 when the goals were adopted.”

I guess, we still have a long way to go! In this musical poem, I gave a reflection of what food and an insight of what is hunger. I also gave a hidden theological-hint to end hunger!

Let there be food! Let there be Life and Let there be Happiness!

LISTEN, MEDITATE, ENJOY AND SHARE WITH OTHERS… HOW FAR ARE WE FROM FOOD?:

1. Apple Music 2. Spotify 3. Amazon Music 4. YouTube

100 SAILORS:

ONE VOICE MORE MUSIC RICHIE INNOCENT MAINTAIN YOUR PRINCIPLES

MAINTAIN YOUR PRINCIPLES:

JUST BE CAREFUL WHO YOU DEFENDING

Afour

time nominee in the International Reggae And World Awards (IRAWMA) Dub Poetry Awards – Mutabaruka awards category, he is no stranger in delivering the best when it comes to poetry and music. Even the IRAWMA 2021 award winner VaChikepe: The Poet, in his acceptance speech shared the award with this great artist and nicknamed this artist, Mdara. A Shona word from Zimbabwe, which when literally translated means great man/big man. In his latest song, indeed, we are guilty as charged when it comes to defending anything and anyone regardless of their shortcomings, but we thank artists who give us a wake-up call and help us not walk blindly in a world where deception has taken the lead. DrThembieTanya (DR) caught up with Richie Innocent (RI) to dig deep into his latest Reggae offering.

ONE VOICE MORE MUSIC RICHIE INNOCENT MAINTAIN YOUR PRINCIPLES

DR: Congratulations on your new song. Brief us on the people behind the song, from the lyric production until its final production.

RI: Thank you for this needed congratulations. This was born in a time where it is necessary that individuals begin to know that some of the people they give their hearts to and defend be it financially, emotionally are in other ways sometimes the ones who give us the biggest surprise, and some we may never survive hence I was inspired to write this message and to deliver it to the world. I received the riddim from Ralston Barrett my publicist, who is also a producer. He is responsible for Be Careful Who You Defending since I recorded it on his label Symphony B Records. I did the voicing in New York and Jerome Felix aka Jerry Dawg was the engineer. We then we sent it to Jamaica where Delroy Pottinger a.k.a Fatta did the mixing. The harmony session was done by Nikki Burt

ONE VOICE MORE MUSIC RICHIE INNOCENT MAINTAIN YOUR PRINCIPLES

and the mastering at Anchor Recording Studio. The idea for the making of this riddim came out of a remake of the original Jail House riddim made by Channel One Studio after George from Fire House recreated for Hezron to do a remake. However, after failing to get him to do it I was approached to be a part of the project and this is the outcome.

DR: Who or what inspired the song? Is the song a single taken out from an album or not?

RI: I was inspired by personal experiences and by observing the global experiences of people and realizing that there was a crisis of a pandemic proportion and magnitude that was hurtful and paining. The pandemic was resulting in the loss of life of people who became victims out of the need to be loving, helpful, and generous. There are situations where knowingly or unknowingly we support persons doing wrong and the returns usually come with great consequences and detriment to individuals, society, and nations collectively, unfortunately. This single is being considered to be a part of my EP or maybe an album since it has been anticipated for a long time now but it had to be paused because of Covid19.

DR: The name of the late Bob Marley features in your song, how has his music shaped the creation of this particular song?

RI: Bob Marley is one of the greatest and he is the legendary icon and King of Reggae music. In many of his messages he taught and warned us of actions of man, which maybe disappointing at times. He stated that you can fool people sometimes, but you can’t fool all the people all the time. This he expressed in the song he sang with Peter Tosh called Get up stand. I had to incorporate, show my respect and appre ciation for those who are the foundation upon which I now seek to stand and present a continuation of the message to inform this generation, the next and many more to come.

ONE VOICE MORE MUSIC RICHIE INNOCENT MAINTAIN YOUR PRINCIPLES

DR: In the song you liken people to serpents, can you dig deeper into what a serpent resembles in real life?

RI: This is personification to point to the similarities between man and serpent. The likeness is in the serpent’s cunning ways and nature to inflict venom when given the chance. A serpent may attack when someone stands on its pathway. Will a man literally entertain snakes in his home knowing the dangers? I guess not nor should I say no with confidence! In the biblical sense, a serpent represents the creature that was responsible for man’s downfall through disobedience. The snake sheds its skin to represent the changing of behavior by those we love and trust, which later become cold-blooded and heartless. Our existence may become meaningless as a result of their selfish desires to overthrow us for what we may or may not possess because of greed or jealousy.

DR: Most of them are evil…most of them are liars,” how then is an individual able to understand or realize that the person he/she is defending, is not rated among the ‘most’?

RI: A person knows, if they are likened to anything that is evil because we know conscience is the judge of all we do and is where the evidence resides and the judge for all that we are doing. It is all recorded. When we no longer pay attention to our

conscience then we have reached the point of being psychopaths and sociopaths who are narcissistic beings. This is not to make anyone including myself feel good, it serves as a reminder that all of us do things that we may never want to be divulged or known. Hence, we recreate ourselves and posture our social front to appear ‘Good in the sight of man’. This is evidenced by our religious, spiritual, and political leaders are just anyone in society including the so-called common man and persons whose jobs are teachers, and healthcare workers whose jobs are centered on love, compassion, and caring. Some have become void of integrity, empathy, sympathy and common human touch to comfort and heal. Parents also contribute to the disintegration of society because many a times, they defend the bad behavior of their children. Parents should support positive and healthy behavior in chil dren so as to encourage them to be productive citizens of the world. We must make sure we are not among the ‘most’.

DR: In life, there are people we will always stand up for and defend, where should we draw the line between those we should defend and those we should not? And how do we draw this line especially when these people are our loved ones or those we look up to?

RI: Previously answered, we sometimes defend individuals because

THE 100 SAILORS:

they are our blood relatives and/or friends but in the end, we may suffer when things go sour and face negative consequences. We must draw the line whenever the projection of their behavior demonstrates that they have no intention of changing their ways and it is conspicuous that, because of our association, we may face severe penalties along with those we defend. If we truly look up to them and it is noticeable that they are involved in wrongdoings, we should be the ones to take them aside and reason about whatever it is and encourage them to do better. We should do so especially when we love or when they seem irredeemable and enjoy who they may become. Remember we all must answer for whatever we do as individuals. Main tain your principles and never allow the benefits of the bread of sorrow and wine of violence to redirect you to the path of destruction.

DR: In your own words, how does defending a person act as food to someone’s ego who later uses it as an advantage to hurting others?

RI: There are attention seekers and persons who merely need to show case bad behavior and energies. We feed their egos by allowing their behaviors to continue, smile at what they do and never comment on how offensive their actions are. When they become monsters or worse in terms of their behavior, we will find ourselves becoming prey for their schemes. Their nature becomes

ONE VOICE MORE MUSIC RICHIE INNOCENT MAINTAIN YOUR PRINCIPLES

that of enjoyment seeing others in pain and taking what others have worked hard to achieve. The ego of the selfish is detrimental to all and it’s a venomous snake slithering around filled with venom to kill all.

DR: Shelley Powers in her article, Being careful of our defenses, published on July 13, 2016 said, “ If we are spending a lot of time defending our views, our friends, our worldview, and our way of life - there is definitely something to let go of. Defensiveness is not a place of freedom - this is a sign of being captive to something, even enslaved to it.” What do you think of the statement when you look at the way you wrote your song? Cite examples from your song, if any.

RI: Sharing this information from Shelley Powers is refreshing and I thank you for doing so. Like she says, we cannot enslave ourselves by having to go around defending our choices, views and beliefs. An iconic master dub poet from Jamaica by the name Mutabaruka who happens to be the greatest there is in the world and also in the IRAWMA Dub

Poetry Awards to the point that when he retired from the category, it was named after him. He says that the things we hold dear and embrace as facts oftentimes are imposed by culture into religion and other areas in our society and lives. Why do we hold onto things passed down to us? Are they what we believe them to be and are they the ultimate truth?

ONE VOICE MORE MUSIC RICHIE INNOCENT MAINTAIN YOUR PRINCIPLES

This is my interpretation of a discussion he had after playing Be Careful Who You Defending on his radio program on Irie FM radio called the Cutting Edge aired on Wednesdays from 10pm to 2am and also on the Stepping Razor - Art of Razor which airs on Thursdays from 2pm to 6pm. In my song, I sing the following words, “set me free, set me free from double standards and from hypocrisy set me free from disloyalty and from hypocrisy so that my conscience set me free”. In doing so I am calling upon the Most High God to help me to be a better person who can also become what I am pointing out because we are not perfect. We all have things best left unsaid. Our society is now crying, ashamed of, for example those who are in positions of leadership who have abandoned their role.

DR: What then are your last words to those with a ‘defensive behavior’?

RI: My words in parting but never my last words are that in defending we try to protect those we protect from harm but we also can hurt those we defend by encouraging wrongs that they are involved in doing and we sometimes do it with our children and also end up being hurt ourselves. There can be no guilt if those we defend doing good are well-intended actions or activities but we must practice balance so as not to become slaves to our actions. We must exercise self-defense because the good we do to some people can get us killed, so we must keep our eyes open for red flags.

DR: Where can people find your music on social media? And where can people find this new beautiful piece of a song?

RI: I do hope my message is never lost and those interested in what I have to say will continue to follow me on Instagram at Richie.Innocent and on Meta RichieInnocentDiPoet and also on Tik Tok. Be Careful Who You Defending is distributed by VPal Records ban affiliate of VP Records and its available on Youtube, Spotify and all digital platforms.

AND THE 100 SAILORS:

ONE

MORE MUSIC RICHIE INNOCENT MAINTAIN YOUR PRINCIPLES

Much appreciation for the man behind the stonelove remix of this song. Follow and listen to him, @geefusstonelove on Tik Tok Stone Love is the top sound system in Jamaica’s history with over 50 years and Geefus is a legendary selector.

I thank you for taking the time out to listen to my song and doing this interview to be shared with the world. I want to send special love to the people of the motherland, especially on the platforms and mediums projecting art out of Africa to the world. I have no problem defending my brothers and sisters who have endured so much historically. Love goes out to the rest of the world unreservedly.

Shelley Powers reference link www.linkedin. com/pulse/being-careful-our-defensesshelley-weeks/?trk=read_relatedarticle_ card.title

+263719675521

WORDS IN VERSE I

My Status

Self; the veil. Self; the house I built. Self; I love. Self; my enemy.

Giving birth to selves, self multiples. I hunger sincerely, dwelling in self; I bluff. I desire deeply, in self; I lie wrapped in self, I live in veil.

Living in veil, I live between the camp of two dreadful and deadly dark hills.

Try to escape, got embroiled by the leaves from self, tied round my waist in coverage of my nakedness. Yet I'm naked.

In dark, blindfolded, stripped and dancing in misery, I live in self.

Oh that self be taken from me. Oh that I be stripped off self!

By Ogbonna Chimaobim Daniel. Nigeria

ogbonnadaniel28@gmail.com +234 9017371721

WORDS IN VERSE I THE JOURNEY OF LIFE VACHIKEPE AND THE INTERNATIONAL AFFILIATES

BECAUSE

NOT

I understand those feelings Not because I am Ruhanga, The feelings of agony and despair

I understand how you feel friend, I don't know how to say pal Don't go far off thinking We will isolate ourselves from YOU.

Not because of your sickness! Don't go far off thinking

That we will run away friend I don't know how to say pal, There is power in numbers We are here to stay...!

Don't go far off thinking Don't be as forlorn as an empty station Don't leave us for a second Our dearest,

Thinking that we don't "care " Not because of your sickness, We have you at heart pal.

Wishing you the best of luck Wish you well each and everyday, I give thanks to the Lord for sending you Our way, please always remember We will always love you , here for you!

By Ankwasa Harlord

ankwasaharlord@gmail.com @Ankwasaharlord on Facebook,Twitter and IG

WORDS IN VERSE I

STEAMY DEW

I know

I can't change

The world alone

Within my lifespan

In this shortest time.

Every morning

I wake up alive

Though I don't deserve it But I'm reminded that I live For a reason and mission.

I'm not just alive

For being alive demand

I have to continue pushing Challenging minds to think Cultivate best flowers and corns.

When I'll breath my last I'll be held accountable

For the seconds, minutes

And hours I spent breathing Whether I spent complaining

Or making this world a better place For this generation and generation to come.

I want to live this life

In such a simple way

But that matters

Dig sand, gravel and gold Unearth all from my conscious And paint the sky the best I can.

100 SAILORS: 23.10.2022

WORDS IN VERSE I THE JOURNEY OF LIFE VACHIKEPE AND THE INTERNATIONAL AFFILIATES

The world is not Everyone in it

But rather souls in it

So one soul is the world

And the world is one soul.

I stumble, I move I hurdle, I move I crawl, I move I limp, I move I have to keep moving

Even if it will be negligible

But it's fragrance and aroma

Will fill all nostrils and capture it.

So my skin is numb

But my mind is sweating Steamy dew that kisses the world With love, kindness, boldness With humanity, charity and wellness.

By Wanda Dewdrops (Kenya)

WORDS IN VERSE I

Forgotten The Errand?

Since I got into the journey; my eyes descending the rest

From my plump inked pen, white papers and heaving chest -

Long on the last I dwell; through every part A pointed arrow sped to pierce my heart — In my thought, this thrice a judge of beauty grown Then I asked: Who am I on this journey, a clown?

So, checking my desire with trembling heart I stood, gazing - not would or could I depart. Wordrow Wilson was right; I'm not here merely to make a living,

I'm really here to make world more amply; this one I'm living in.

Now I'm ready, awake and dare begin To speak but wisely kept the fool within. I'm not pure on the journey, I've planted some trees

Wilson's claim to enrich the world is definitely pen art — poetry

I'm rich - I seemed, not only seemed but I'm inspired.

My pen is filled in every exercise of all I admired. This is a journey on which you have to be inspired or rich

If you're not rich in poetry, try to - with your inspira tion - enrich "Impoverish yourself if you forget the errand" Enrich the world if you still remember the errand.

By Afolabi Faruq O. (Nigeria)

afaaruq17@gmail.com +2349031622324

Ending Hunger

If hunger was, a war! Were we going to win this war?

If hunger was a battle! How many of us, would be In the battle-field?

If hunger was a matter, Of life and death! Who would choose To live?

When, will we learn? To face our fears?

“The survival of the fittest!”

Be not-hungry! But, that Doesn’t mean, someone Has killed hunger!

Who killed hunger? Or, we, simply-negotiated For our survival?

Wasn’t eating, One of the main activities In the garden of Eden?

How come-now, We sometimes fail-to have Anything, to put in our stomachs?

Is this development? Or -evelopment? Are we not, Dehumanizing-ourselves?

Provided someone is still hungry! In this world, we have got… A lot to do!

WORDS

WORDS IN VERSE II THE JOURNEY OF LIFE POETRY FROM AMERICA

not right to live in death, and Surrounding ourselves with death, For the simple reason that, We are alive!

Ending hunger! Has to be… More than, everyone’s Responsibility!

Hunger! Must become… Human-Culture!

The Future

Time

The currency of life

Goes quickly by As we mark time

Wasting time

Without a care

Running around Hamster on a wheel

From point A to A Illusion of progress

To satisfy the delusion

Imbedded in our being

From the zones of comfort

We’ve so cleverly drawn

Survival of the fittest

Is what many whisper

Yet the thrivers

They make the rules Better late than never

A great misconception

Ask the foolish virgins

They’ll scream hell no Time lost is really life lost

For that date

It’ll never return

And everything past Will simply be a thought

WORDS

WORDS IN VERSE II THE JOURNEY OF LIFE POETRY FROM AMERICA

So with minds and hearts Intertwined as one

As we approach Our appointment time Let us unite

While opportunity abides

To create the world that was meant to be One in which we all truly thrive Not the one

Where only the strong survive

Selfishness weakens

Strength satisfies Don’t be deceived

Agreeing to disagree

Is no road to progress But rather a false coalition That will hinder The birth Of the truest Greatest Good

By Idorenyin

Hopes-Poetry-Palace

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IG Idorenyin Udofia on LinkedIn

Take a walk in my shoes! A poet since inception

Shoes Lambada is a spoken word artist born and bred in Kadoma but now based in Harare, Zimbabwe. He is also an arts administrator.

"Every journey has a specific time and place where it began, but the case is a bit different with my life as a poet. I do not think there is a specific time reference of when I became a poet. It’s like asking me when I became human. I would rather say I realised that I was a poet through my practical engagement with the art from my elementary school days. I remember forming a new club at Jameson High School that brought together artists from across genres. After high school I founded a schoolleavers pressure group and began using poetry as a tool to disseminate issues around healthy living in schools. After High School, and because of the exposure, I found myself performing at my first international platform, the Zimbabwe International Book Fair (ZIBF) alongside seasoned artists. Since then, I have never looked back. One challenge I encountered when I began was lack of platforms to showcase the art. I want to commend most poets of my generation who took a bold step and began creating their own platforms. The most notable platform which became an incubator for the majority of spoken word artists we have today is the now defunct House of Hunger Poetry Slam. Through the Zimbabwe Poets for Human Rights, I have personally assisted in creation of such platforms since 2008.

VACHIKEPE AND THE 100 SAILORS: 23.10.2022

ARTIST LOUNGE I: SHOES LAMBADA TAKE A WALK IN MY SHOES

ARTIST LOUNGE I: SHOES LAMBADA TAKE A WALK IN MY SHOES

My journey and experience directed my steps toward the formation of Zimbabwe Poets for Human Rights (ZPHR). It is something I am proud of.The movement was co-founded by Michael Mabwe, Ronald Jongwe and myself in 2008. ZPHR is a move ment of spoken word artists who are committed to articulate human rights issues through poetry. We believed that poets can contribute in the national human rights discourse through the art. We had a strong conviction that poetry could be a means of engagement where confrontation and dialogue failed. As a result, we founded the move ment and formally registered so that we could meaningful contribute to national development processes

through our art. My role as the National Coordinator has been to stir this ship as a captain, determined to reach a specific destination. That is, a Zimbabwe where human rights are respected, observed, fulfilled and where human rights abuses are condemned and perpetrators are brought to book through an equitable justice system.

While working with ZPHR, another door opened along the way and I became part of LitFest. LitFest Harare is a dynamic institution and I am so privileged to be working with such a talented and dedicated team. Everyone at Litfest Harare is an artist starting with the Director, Chirikure Chirikure, going down to

VACHIKEPE AND THE 100 SAILORS: 23.10.2022

the last volunteers. Besides being the Festival Administrator for LitFest Harare, I am also a Creative Asso ciate with Edzai Isu Trust.

I do not find it hard striking a balance among my many roles and activities because all my responsibilities are related to art. In fact, I find fulfilling my obligations and responsibilities fun to accomplish because they are not 'jobs' to me, but rather a part of my being.

Over the years poetry has opened so many doors of opportunity for me. The first notable opportunity that I always talk about was my admission to the prestigious British Council’s Pan-African fellowship called Inter-Action in 2009. I was among CEOs, leaders from civic societies, businesses and got an opportunity to travel to Senegal and spent insightful moments with leaders from across the conti nent. This was also my first time performing my poetry beyond the Zimbabwean borders. Since then, opportunities began following me. To date, I have performed my poetry in Senegal, Zambia, South Africa, Namibia, Germany, Kenya and the United States of America. I have performed at the Harare Interna tional Film Awards (HIFA) and at the Zimbabwe International Book Fair (ZIBF) several times. Other local festivals that I have been part of include the Shoko Festival, Protest Arts International Festival,

ARTIST LOUNGE I: SHOES LAMBADA TAKE A WALK IN MY SHOES

Zimbabwe Human Rights Festival, LitFest Harare, Thuba Lethu, Dzimbahwe Arts Festival, among others.

My journey has been filled with a lot of activity and, I am no longer sure how many pieces of art I have to my name. I am constantly writing. However, I compiled a poetry anthology that was published in 2010 and it features more than 20 new voices. The anthology is called, All Protocols Observed . After the publication of the book, we went on to record an album with the same title and it carried 8 musical tracks with hard-hitting poetry. I was also part of the X1G music album that was curated by the Election Resources Centre as a way of encouraging first time voters to register. Some of the artists that were on this album include Willom Tight, Leor nard Mapfumo, Shinsoman, among others. Never in my wildest dream did I ever think that my works could get airplay on national radio. This was so because of the content of my poetry which some find confronta tional. However, this changed when I was invited by Pastor G to feature on his song called Mabiribobi from his album Indestructible . The song went on to hit the charts. It came as a surprise to me. That same year I had a collaboration with Mobfiggaz a hip-hop outfit, on their song Reve lations . I will not mention the poets I have worked with so far. They deserve their own day and time, as they are too many, but of note would

ARTIST LOUNGE I:

SHOES LAMBADA

TAKE A WALK IN MY SHOES

be Batsirai Chigama, Bartholomew and Upmost whom I worked with on a project with the support of Pamberi Trust and premiered at The Mannenberg.

It would not be a memorable journey without accolades or perhaps let me use the word, “gifts” in this context. In 2008, I was recognised by the Crisis in Zimbabwe Coalition as a nominee for the National Human Rights, Good Governance and Democracy award for our sterling work as Zimbabwe Poets for Human Rights. The National Arts Council first introduced the spoken word category in their National Arts and Music Awards (NAMA) in 2012 and I was amongst the first three nomi nees for the Outstanding Spoken Word Artist.

For me, the journey continues as the future is always reinventing itself. I find myself exceeding my goals year after year. I am grateful for how global the world has become as a result of technology. I have come to a point where it is no longer about me, but the industry.

In the past five years, I have been involved in projects that were aimed at uplifting the young ones and keeping poetry alive. The Poetry Pot Wednesday is one such initia tive that I am working on to amplify the spoken word of new poets. Bira reNhetembo is another project I am also working on with Edzai Isu

Trust to keep poetry alive. In the next couple of years, I am looking forward to having several such projects spread across the country. However, my ultimate goal is to establish an arts and cultural centre that will be an incubation hub for all artistic genres.

What I have learnt in my journey as a poet is that there are no shortcuts when it comes to art. Therefore, my words of advise to newcomers to the industry, is work hard. A lot of hardwork is ahead of you. Art is not a get rich scheme, if you do not have the patience, go to forex trading.

To know more about me and my journey, follow me on my social media platforms. I am Robson Isaac ShoesLamba on Facebook. On Insta gram and Twitter my handle is Shoes Lambada."

Interviewed by: Martin Chivaku @DA_Scripta

chivakum@gmail.com +263718777471

Renee Duke Youth Award poetry contest

The 2022 Renee Duke Youth Award poetry contest is open to poets 19 years old and younger. There will be one cash prize of US$150 for poets aged 12 or younger, and one cash prize of US$150 for poets aged 13 through 19.

“ Where, after all, do universal human rights begin? In small places, close to home—so close and so small that they cannot be seen on any maps of the world.” Eleanor Roosevelt

Familiarity with the Universal Declaration of Human Rights is recom mended.

Send one original poem that cele brates a Human Rights hero – living or dead, famous or unknown.

No protest poems or political themes will be accepted.

Winning poems will be announced and read at the Poets for Human Rights Annual Awards on or around December 10, the 74th Anniver sary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

Style: Any poetic form.

Length: 1 letter-size page.

Format: Left justified, 12 point font. No colors, no graphics.

Foreign language poems are welcome, however ensure to include an English translation.

Submissions deadline: Sunday, November 20, 2022

No simultaneous submissions or previously published poems.

Submit entries to

poetsforhumanrights@gmail.com, in body of email or pdf attachment. No hyperlinks or word document attachments.

You may visit our last newsletter/ journal edition on https://issuu. com/the_sailors_review/docs/ the_sailors_review_62nd_issue_18_ september_2022.

BRINGING THE WORD TO LIFE

ARTIST LOUNGE

BRINGING THE WORD TO LIFE

Brenardo, ‘The Sing Song Poet

Do you have a weakness; do you believe and have the zeal to turn it into a strength? Be inspired by this article and turn your life into positivity. Have a deeper understanding of what art is and how Brenardo an American based sing song poet, has managed to stay true to the Word.

One of my early capsulations of myself describes me perfectly. “I am Brenardo, I am the Sing Song Poet.” Though my manner of creation also affords me to be a songwriter, I am an extension of “the Word”. A revelation of many years ago guided me directly to, … “In the beginning, was the word and word was with, and the word was, and the word became flesh, and nothing was made that was not made by word”. The idea that I had been given the gift of understanding the word, crafting the word, showed me how great a power I was responsible for. I also

use tools of presentation, gestures, inflections, and song, to bring what I write to life so that my visions might be experienced at a higher level.

From the perspective of “Illumi nation” I was brought back to my understanding that before there was anything, there was the word, the thought, the idea, I began there. I have seen many people who want to be poets for the sake of fame or rele vancy. Being human, I can confess that I too have sought and seek some measure of that. However, the Word is the source, the guiding force, and when I think that I as the one given the gift as being more important than the giver of the gift, I risk being distracted from why the gift was given. We all are somewhat different as people, poets, writers, artists, therefore it is natural that our work, or art reflects those person alities.

ARTIST LOUNGE II: BRENARDO BRINGING THE WORD TO LIFE

To say I became an artist is to say I create art. I have never thought of myself as an artist, even though at the age of 13, l began writing with the intent to write songs. I had started in this way because I was too shy to tell a girl called Melita that I liked her. I observed how songs by people like Smokey Robinson, Stevie Wonder, etc. could express what I wanted to say in a 3-minute song, so I tried it.

Before the incident, I had been writing my feelings and observations about life, society, family, etc. in notebooks, but did not recog nize it as a talent. I did not share my writings with others for a long time, and when I began to, I found appreciation for the writings that were written as songs. I also tried to get assistance many times, but nothing came to full fruition that I would see as success.

I started performing my poetry in Open Mike settings from 1998 and about 5 years later, seeing how receptive the crowds were and how consistently I was creating new poetry, I decided to proclaim myself a poet. Seeing that I was feeling like a brand-new creation myself, the persona of Brenardo was born.

My strength lies foremost in my respect for the word. I recognize that; through word we can commu nicate or present our visions. The word has the power to build up, tear down, calm or agitate, and we can create scenarios or measures of

reality based on that understanding. According to my point of view spoken word and written word are primarily techniques to use as to get the point across. Written word can be sonnets, haikus, villanelles, limericks, and others. Free verse can be used as a poetic form of expression. Each of these expressions led me to different ways of creating a work. Writing is the original means of capturing free flowing thoughts. Spoken word for me is birthed from the written word. “Write the vision, make it plain,” guides me to create something that makes sense, makes a statement to be worthy of hearing.

Spoken word is more than just reading these works aloud. It involves injecting passion into what is being expressed, through the use of poetic techniques like simile, metaphor, alliteration, imagery. Such techniques can also be used in written word poetry. I have learned that there are additional techniques in spoken word, like rhythm, cadence, repetition, gestures, crescendo, and others that aid in injecting the poem into a space of spirit and emotion which the listener can be more sensitive to receive.

Music is my second language. It started communicating to me with and without words as a child. Music has the power to change my mood. It can lift me up, energize me when I am down, or fatigued. It can calm me down when I am angry or agitated. Music has soothed my

VACHIKEPE AND THE 100 SAILORS:

ARTIST LOUNGE II: BRENARDO BRINGING THE WORD TO LIFE

heart and empathized with me when I have been sad or lonely. Music has provided me with direction when I felt lost or confused. Understanding this allowed me to see that word had the power to affect others and to combine the two as I had heard done in songs, led me to incorporate music into what it was that I created. In short, music is definitely strength, and just as we have muscles in our legs and in our arms, I have muscles in poetry and in music. In fact, the heart is a muscle that infuses them both.

The first way I identify if a piece of writing is best suited to be a poem or song is if it comes to me with a melody. Some creations come with a melody and some do not but come with a flow that resembles a traditional song with verses and refrains. Songwriting to me is harder than crafting a poem. This is especially true of free verse which does make use poetic devices but does not have to have a particular type of pattern. There are some writings that start out as one thing, and move to another as I speak them loud, and realize that there is rhythm or a pattern there that could be a song. Basi cally, if it doesn’t come with a melody, or even a thought that it could be a song, I craft it as a poem. Then there are what l call hybrids. These are spoken word pieces that utilize a piece of a song to build the creation, such as When We Danced or Roberta, or even one I crafted with melody and without such as Follow Your Heart.

In my poem The Village, when l say, the village has been destroyed, left behind, or lost, is what anyone may consider or define as a ‘community’. Do you know your neighbors? Do you speak to each other, that are a conversation beyond Hello, Good Morning? Do you know their kids? Is there a respect or value shown to them as human beings? People speak of a time when all the adults worked together as a community, and that was a village; people working together for good of all. As time went on people began to move away from that mentality to concern themselves with only their own best interest and/or not care about their neighbors.

ARTIST LOUNGE II: BRENARDO BRINGING THE WORD TO LIFE

The lack of the village (community) shows up in society at large as isolation and deterioration. Children with no guidance are left to their own devices wandering into troubling situations and some are molested and or bullied. The elderly are left alone to fend for themselves, not being able to get or prepare food and or tend to their yards. Homeless ness, drug abuse, mental illness and suicide as there are no safety nets to catch people falling have become prevalent. Perhaps the idea of a ‘community’ whereby people would treat each other as a family was too whimsical to begin with.

The repetition in this poem is a device that I used for layering a single thought over and over until it gets soaked into the conscious ness of the listener like a seed, or like rain. In the beginning of a piece the repetition serves to draw people into the poem, people who may have had their attention diverted elsewhere when the poem first started. The repetition brings emphasis to the words. In the poem The Village, I use it to establish a thing we all thought of as a true solution, then soon after, l present a twist, to suggest the lack of resources to create this thing, this place we see as so critical to one of our most precious commodities -children must first be established, or this truth cannot be realized.

I am a rhyming poet, so I use a lot of rhyme throughout my poetry. Rhyme

at the end, rhyme in the middle, but not just hot, pot, tot, lot…it must make sense to add to the story. I also use rhythm, alliteration, imagery, meta phor, simile, and other poetic devices that I have learned or been exposed to through classes and workshops on poetry. I find that many of these techniques help people (including me) to remember things or transi tion to the next thought presented, or remember a poem, or it’s main theme. Think of a child who sings a song because it rhymes without under standing the meanings of the words. Some devices such as the imagery or the simile will help a person see an idea more clearly like freedom, or slavery, or poverty, or corruption that they could not see until shown in a certain light. As a songwriter at heart – I use the repetition of the hook to tie the piece together and make the main thought memorable.

Hope. The hope in my poem, The Broadcast was used to approach a dire situation (a global pandemic) like an apocalyptic incident that was not only destroying people, families, and communities physically, but also their minds. I used the term hope as well as elevation to help bring calm and allow the readers to understand that there is a chance they could make it through the situation by coming together. Hope in the poem Four Words Forward is again the idea that we can’t give up. In this case hope is there not to let people in power convince us

VACHIKEPE AND THE 100 SAILORS:

that there is nothing we can do to stop them from the inevitable rise to power and misuse all the resources to the detriment of the masses. In the poem, hope is allied with three other four letter words, work, love, and vote so as to give a roadmap or a process which can be applied to help humanity create better condi tions. Both poems are similar in that each denotes there is power in the individual to not willingly give up. However, one poem offers that understanding, while the other says that the power is already inside of the receiver of the message. Hope matters because it is the fuel that underlies the efforts to face overwhelming odds. Hope is the third strand of a spiritual substance braided with faith and love to give us the means to hold on in the face of hardships, and to bind ourselves to thoughts and actions to visions and promises of success.

I write of hope in many of my poem. An excerpt of another one that comes to mind to illustrate my understanding how the rope of hope is presented in Lessons To Live … “Faith the size of a grain of mustard seed – was all the amount of this substance that I was told that I would need – that I being reared in fear – would find my spirit freed – and Hope to help me cope until such faith yet came to be – circum spect to check the heart for Love – which is the greatest of the three”. It is my own intimate understanding

ARTIST LOUNGE

BRENARDO BRINGING THE WORD TO LIFE

and relationship to the Word which directs the path of my writings.

My advice to rising artist is to first recognize your gift as a gift, as it helps to promote appreciation for what you have. It also aids in recognizing it’s value, and when you can identify who has given you this precious gift, you can then ‘return to Maker’ to get wise counsel on how to use it when you encounter doubt or confusion. Respect the gift, protect the gift, honor it, and remain true to being the best that can be. This can be quite challenging, as life often is. The greatness of a person often lies in the greatness of the challenges that they have overcome. Listening to advice, or rather hearing it is different than living it. Many of the horizons I have risen to see came about through lived experiences. The Word always came to me to help me, to lift me, to tell me who I was, even when I wandered off course. Have a spiritual foundation that encompasses truth and allow {FAITH -Freedom Actualize In True Humility} to help lift you above and beyond.

Interview By DrThembieTanya

APPRECIATING SIGN LANGUAGE IN POETRY

Eric Epstein bringing in magic

According to Nendauni (2021), "Sign language is a language that occurs in the visual-gestural modality. ” It makes use of hands, face, and the upper body and was mainly made for the deaf communities, but not limited to these communities only. There are different types of sign language that range from the American Sign Language (ASL) to the Zimbabwean Sign language (ZSL).

The idea of sign language poetry may seem unlikely to many people unfamiliar with sign language. Even members of deaf communities using sign language have believed in the past that such a thing is impossible.

Sign language poetry is not that popular, the reasons could be that not many schools teach sign language. Even when it comes to arts programme like drama and poetry, only those fewer schools that offer the language are able to use it. Sutton Spence (2005), postulates that there is a past belief that it is impossible to do poetry in sign language due to the fact that poetry is closely associated with sound, and also because it had been previously rejected as a full language. However, it has changed over the years. For example, in Zimbabwe sign language was made one of the 16 official languages that is used in education as per the 2013 Constitution. Unfortu nately, it is still a minority language which is not taught in most schools yet it is a language that is vital in bridging the communication gap between the deaf and those that hear.

SPECIAL MENTION ERIC EPISTEIN APPRECIATING SIGN LANGUAGE IN POETRY

Eric Epstein, an American Sign Language (ASL) translator, is one of those who quashed this belief. He translated the poem Magic by Dr Hiram Larew. In his translation he goes on to say his main emphasis was imagery because, when it comes to sign language translation, some phrases do not translate well since they are based on sound rather than images. Therefore, Eric replaced the sensory metaphors with images, for example the phrase, “sounds of their glow”.

As a first timer, when it came to sign language poetry, l felt so mesmerized. It got me thinking of studying this beautiful language for the purpose of not just communicating with the deaf, but spreading the ‘poetry signs’ across the world.

Kudos to Eric Epstein for bringing magic into this poem, and to Dr Hiram Larew, for a second life to the poem Magic .

By DrThembieTanya madziwathembie@gmail.com +263719675521

References: Nendauni, Lutendo Roseph. (2021). THE DEVELOPMENT OF SIGN LANGUAGE: A SYNOPSIS OVERVIEW. 10.13140/ RG.2.2.19207.93609.

Sutton-Spence, R. (2005). What is Sign Language Poetry?. In: Analysing Sign Language Poetry. Palgrave Macmillan, London. https://doi.org/10.1057/9780230513907_2 , Accessed 06-10-2022.

VACHIKEPE AND THE 100 SAILORS: 23.10.2022

The Global Anti-Hunger Poetry Reading and Fundraiser

For hunger is akin to a dry and weary ground. Where there's no food or water, solutions must rain down thick and fast, I say.

Is not hunger the biggest killer of them all, than all wars collec tively fought? Well, according to http://www.globalcitizen.org/, "hunger is the leading cause of death globally." In addition, https:// www.theworldcounts.com/ asserts that "hunger and malnutrition is responsible for the death of 3.1 million infants annually."

And facts keep pouring. Last Sunday, the 16th of October 2022, commemorated was the World Food Day but I could not help it, reading a headline on France TV news stating that the world's hunger had doubled in 3 years. This bemoaning came from the Food and Agricultural Organisation (FAO).

The die got cast and we definitely are alarmingly food insecure folks. There are a lot of people going a day or more without access to food. But, having known or probably having experienced hunger first hand, what are we ourselves contributing towards addressing this scourge?

Without further ado, in its frantic efforts www.poetryxhunger.com is stopping at nothing. Here is a 17 minute out-take from the Global Anti-Hunger Poetry Reading and Fundraiser staged in the recent past:

View video on YouTube

SPECIAL MENTION GLOBAL ANTI-HUNGER POETRY READING & FUNDRAISER

BOOKSHELF

Don't Give up Africa: English Poems Anthology by VaChikepe the Poet (Author), Clesirdia Nzorozwa (Author), Princess D Musonza (Author), Ashley Murove (Author), Tallence Sanyangore (Author), Clifford Tarerwa (Author), Patience L Gumbo (Author), Blessed Ndlovu (Author), Brian T Manyati (Author), Shorai Matambanadzo (Author), Tatenda Murangi (Author)

This anthology is the first English volume compilation thought out and originated by the young and upcoming artists and poets coming together under the publisher vachikepe.blogspot.com social networking cruise ship of like-minded individuals in Africa, Zimbabwe. Promotion of the works of upcoming talented young artists emerging from Africa`s developing nations is the main reason behind the existence of the brand name VaChikepe: The Poet. The young people coming up together have through time had the opportunity to organize themselves and be creative in various artistry areas that not only include writing and poetry but music, fine art and sculpture as well. Among other things, publishing written works to the world at large has been an endeavour that this very first anthology volume, to come from a united stable, has made a reality. To these inspired artists, each coming and passing day has served to be for sharpening writing skills and motivating one another to keep surging forward towards greatness with a lot of faith. The compilation is, therefore, to a greater extent unedited to maintain originality and each writer’s style, and will serve as a lasting reminder of how from humble beginnings thoughts and raw talent were exhibited with conviction and self-motivation to help inform and change or shape the world positively through poetry. Click here to order

Living Your Purpose by Frank Nyamundero (Author)

We all seek to live a life that carries a meaningful impact and fulfilment. This devotional is a tool to help you find and understand the meaning of a life lived in its rightful purpose. We were made for a purpose and we should live to have a significant life. Click here to order

She, Her, Woman by Zolisa Gumede (Author)

A poetry anthology on a woman's journey in womanhood. The anthology takes the reader through a woman's understanding of relationships. It also takes the reader into childhood memories, love, fear, yearning, motherhood, and then emotional growth and everything that defines a woman's condition. This anthology contains the being of a woman. Click here to order

Emotional Evolution: Thoughts by Pikitayi by Angela Pikitayi Rugara (Author)

Through the journey of life, I aspired for success in the jungle of politics, economics and technology. Having walked that path I retired from formal employment to embark on a new adventure in art. Unbeknown to me that was where my passion was buried all along. I have never been afraid of failing, but always love to try out new things that rouse my passion. So I decided to write poetry in the hope of capturing lives and the feelings therein. Is it not humanity’s deepest need to know that we are all connected? This gathered record of poems seeks to show emotional evolution experienced, not only by the seeker of art but by a stranger walking alone; the friend who misses; and the mother who believed she was unseen. The greatest intent of this work being: It’s okay for one to express themselves as they feel. If you cannot talk then write. If you cannot fight for those in pain then speak for them. In my culture, we are often very private about how we feel. The natural answer when someone asks how we are is “Fine or okay.” These two words hide a lot of unexpressed emotions as people often give answers to one of those words with a smile. I have seen smiles with sad eyes. As you read on I hope you find yourself and others in these poems. Click here to order

Stop the Crime and Violence

ARTIST LOUNGE III: QUEEN KARMALA STOP THE CRIME AND VIOLENCE

There ain't second guessing our Jamaican Queen anymore

Stopthe Crime and Violence is a melodious, impactful, and very relevant 'tune' sung by Queen Kamarla. Her Majesty The Empress, is the lead person behind the upcoming tour of South Africa on the 4th of November, 2022. Do you want to have a grounded introduction on what she is about? Lets first view and take a listen to her official music video, then proceed immediately after:

Video: https://youtu.be/7qWW7RGZ-88

In her self introduction she had this to say:

"My birth name is Kamarla Pitter. I used to go by the name Platinum Sheriff until I met my partner who insisted that the work I was doing, my music and benevolence, was fitting enough to earn me the title of Queen. From then on, I have been called and known as Queen Kamarla. It gives me a lot of self confidence to pronounce myself as a Queen, I believe I exude a lot of the characteristics that belongs to royalty."

"Born and raised in Trench Town, Jamaica, I was raised by a single parent and happen to be the only girl to my mother and to my father. I have two sibling brothers and I am the youngest."

"The music in me got started from a very tender age as I listened to mummy work and sing for people to pass time. If you ask me, Michael Jackson, Bob Marley, Dianna Ross were a breathtaking lot, but what lifted me up and touched my heart was the whole Garnett Silk story, life and music."

ARTIST LOUNGE III: QUEEN KARMALA STOP THE CRIME AND VIOLENCE

"At only 14 years of age, I was already passionate about music, particularly the reggae and dancehall genres. My presence at Sugar Minnott Studio and hanging around the legendary songwriter Horace Andy, tickled my fancy for reggae and dancehall music. As a special mention, it is Horace Andy who took me into a studio for the first time and had my voice recorded."

"After having returned from Canada from the 2017 Rasta Fest competition which I aced, I was taken aback by the widespread news of how our Jamaican women were being abused and killed in the most grue some ways one can imagine. The cases were horrible to the extent that some had their intestines removed from their lifeless bodies. That is what prompted me to come up with the song Stop The Crime And Violence. Even though we got some airplay on the radio, I resolved that more should be done to stop the crime and violence and that I needed to do more. That's how the SA tour came to life."

"I grew up a poor girl who, for certain reasons, could not escape enrolling in a record of 9 schools comprising of 7 primary and 2 high schools. It is funny that I attended some many schools and it is unfortunate that I did not graduate. It is safe to say that I am from the garrison. In addition, my feminine nature in a male dominated industry has been a constant struggle but, I have kept my eyes on the prize. I have also come to realise that poverty plays a major role in crime and violence more often than not. Therefore, the solution for that is education, skill acquisitions and talent harnessing. That is why my payoff line is Skill Dem Before Police Kill Dem."

AND

I go with the tour, we have to unite to overcome. We need to open them eyes and minds, each and everyone of us, and realise there's no place for crime and violence, but a safe and harmonious co-existence."

that is Kamarla Pitter for us, doing what she knows best alongside a typical calm and composed delivery of one of here reggae music songs above. For one more tune, below is an audio file of Know Your Purpose In Life

An evolution of beats

ARTIST LOUNGE IV: ELLAYA AN EVOLUTON OF BEATS

From beat boxing to computerised instrumentals

Consistence is one of the most difficult things for artists. However, for one to really make it, it takes doing something, evolving with it, perfecting and mastering it. That is what Ellaya did with his art and he seems to be on the path to success. Here's his story:

"My name Is Elliot Sikweya. My nickname is Ellaya. It came up when I was in school. Everyone used to call me Ellaya so much that some didn't even know my original name."

"I am a young man with a passion for starting new things. I work as a computer and mobile phone software repairer. I ventured into music way back in school. I used to make beats using my mouth but being a shy boy, I couldn't go out and do it in public. Then, in 2014 I started making instrumentals the computerised way."

"It has been 8 years since I started and the journey has been quite tough. Everyday I face new challenges as the world is changing on a daily basis.

I make Reggae, Dancehall and Afro Pop instrumentals, specialising in Reggae. I learnt how to make Reggae beats when I used to listen to UB40 songs. Their sound stuck in my head until I learnt to make those instrumentals using a computer.

AND THE 100 SAILORS: 23.10.2022

ARTIST LOUNGE IV: ELLAYA AN EVOLUTON OF BEATS

"So far I have worked with a few artists. The likes of Ras Naggies, King Charme, Briggs, Takudzwa Chikepe (VaChikepe: The Poet), and many others. Of these, the best known artist I have worked with is Takudzwa Chikepe on two projects, namely, Zimunamato and Syllabus .

So far Syllabus is my best project. It was an honour to work with VaChikepe. His way of doing poetry and his style inspired me a lot. So that's how I thought of doing a collaboration by making a beat for him and it turned out well.

"Nowadays, everything is being run by new technology based on soft ware. Therefore, my knowledge in software helps me understand the ones I need to make instrumentals.

"In order to strike a balance, during the day I do my normal work repairing computers and in the evening or free hours I do music stuff.

I hope to take music further and help out upcoming producers as I was also helped. In my other work, I am also looking forward to creating a big brand name.

"To whoever wants to venture into the music industry, give it your best. Never look down on yourself. Do not let critics put you down and work hard until you get there."

You can get intouch with Boss Ellaya on: elliotsikweya34@gmail.com +263778131088

Facebook: Elliot Nabeel Sikweya

Interviewed by Miss Fit Rebecca Tanyaradzwa Kwerengwe

tanyaradzwarkwerengwe@gmail. com miss_fit_zw

VACHIKEPE AND THE 100 SAILORS: 23.10.2022

Ginjah- Reggae's Soul Man releases a hot n' fresh new single FALL IN LOVE

According to ingrv.es Ginja’s new track, Fall In Love is soaring up high. Below are excerpts from the greater part of the official release state ment:

Living up to his moniker as ‘Reggae’s Soul Man,' Ginjah expresses unbri dled passion for his woman and mankind in Fall in Love , his latest song which was produced by Tomique Williams.

It is the follow-up to These Arms , another ballad released early this year. A prolific writer, Ginjah said he wanted to do more than just an ‘I love you’ song. Fall in Love is the result.

“I was thinking about a song that the entire world will accept. A universal song, that was the mindset; finding something to stick in the minds of the people in this competitive world,” he explained.

An impressive lineup of musi cians accompanied Ginjah on Fall in Love . They are premier saxophonist Dean Fraser, Donald “Danny Bassie” Dennis of The Firehouse Crew, drummer Makiri Whyte, O'neil Dacres on keyboards and guitarist N’namdi Robinson.

With his new single Ginjah was pretty eager to show fans that love has no boundaries. People can be as passionate about correcting humanity’s ills as they are about their spouses.

“Let’s not forget that music can be used as a vehicle to bring about societal change,” he said.

Fall in love was produced by Tomique Williams of Berta Records for Tad’s Record.

The single track is available now on Apple Music, Amazon, Spotify, and all digital platforms worldwide.

IN THE NEWS: GINJAH FALL IN LOVE

THE SOLUTIONS WE NEED ARE RIGHT WITHIN

Firstly, l want to appreciate The Sailors Review for this oppor tunity. The poem Circles is one of my favourites. Each time I meditate on the lines, l see and feel its power as if it were reality. l got the inspiration for this poem from scripture which talks about what had happened and the reoccurring. We are living amidst history which encourages us to take heed and be courageous. Thus, prophecy foretold. While l meditated on the scripture, I looked at the world and realised how true the scripture was. We are going round in circles looking for 'the' perfect life and way to live.

My poem is focused on humans. Yes, not just a huge number but everyone. We are products of circumstances; our days and events are products of fate and faith. We all face different phases. We all want to live right and to make that one life changing deci sion. Surely, you know one of the major desires of man is freedom. We feel we are stuck somewhere, and we want to be free from within, but we can not figure out how. All we do are attempts to make a life. However, we fail to meet our desired goals because we fail to look within. We again do not know that we are living in history where life in the past is reoccurring and repeating itself, showing continuum of human error. Furthermore, humans want to live and make a name for themselves. We love to achieve a lot, fix problems, and simplify life. The only way out is to look down memory lane and

WORDS IN VERSE III: POETRY ANALYSIS DANIEL OGBONNA

through history we can get a cure, solutions, and a path.

Since "we are lost" we just have to learn from our shortcomings. Hence, there is hope in failing. Hopeless ness only lies in unwillingness to strive. Though we are trapped, instead of giving up we should work hard to determine who we are and our future. One day we will climb up and make the real and perfect rule with a stable roof and settle from wandering in these circles."

Yes, apart from this piece, Daniel Ogbonna has a lot of other poems he would love the world to know. Also, he is into music and visual art. He is a certified graphic designer, certified conflict manager, public speaker and pianist. Currently, he is pursuing a degree in biochemistry at Ebonyi State University Abakaliki, Nigeria. Do not hesitate to contact him on +234 901 737 1721 or email at ogbonnadaniel28@gmail.com

Interviewed by Brendon Chipandara aka Goofy Chipz.

brendonchipandara@gmail.com +263712969775

WORDS IN VERSE III

CIRCLES

Lost in circles, With no clue; We make our roofs.

Travel in circles With no clew We make our rules.

Seeking for direction

In I'll health, we live With history the therapy

Yet we're lost.

VACHIKEPE AND THE 100 SAILORS: 23.10.2022

In this issue, we reflect on our travel in this short journey called life. How we become depends with you and me. Appreciating every moment as it comes, learn ing through the way, correcting our mistakes and accepting the perfect imperfections. Through the lens we capture each and ev ery moment for the ultimate re flection.

Photographs by: Ron Porter

Portraitor Neil Moll 0rdinary1 Clay LeConey Babur Yakar

100 SAILORS:

SIGHT:

SIGHT:

SIGHT:

SIGHT:

message from nature

Being a student is just a fun experience. It doesn't matter what age, sex or cultural backgrounds even religion. Being at school is just like being a plant in an interplanted field. Although the plants are in the same field, each one is different from the other, it grows differently up until harvest where they will meet again in the granary. But in that granary, they also hold different values if they are to be marketed even if they are to be eaten, some of them will end up among rubbish.

That being said, I found myself among the interplanted plants where, at my own will I somehow began intruding in forbidden places. I enjoyed the act until one day when nature taught me a valuable lesson.

The place I spent most of my time in, valued praying which was not my cup of tea. The religion that my school was part of embraced October as the holy month. During this month, we would go to a sacred place to offer our prayers. The thirty minute prayers began at 4.30pm sharp and I was among the rebel lious ones.

On the 2nd of this month, like a good and well-mannered student, I went for prayers with others. I found a place near the gate next to the fence that demarcated the bush from the sacred place. My intention was to come out first as there was

THE NARRATIVE: PROGRESS MUWADZURI A MESSAGE FROM NATURE

an amazing meal at the dining hall soon after. Unfortunately God had had other plans for me. I was among the early birds.

Sitting there trying to concentrate on the prayers, something caught my attention. It was a burnt desert tree. In preparation for the beginning of the month, the place had been cleaned and all the rubbish burnt, that's when the tree met with an unfortunate fate. Whilst feeling sorry for the tree, I kept on looking at it and that's when I realized that it wasn't completely burnt, it was alive from within.

THE NARRATIVE: PROGRESS MUWADZURI A MESSAGE FROM NATURE

I won't lie, I dropped a tear when l equated someone's life to that of this tree. I looked around and found everyone busy praying. I wiped my face and went back to the disturbing scene and saw something even more disturbing.

This time it was a big amarulla tree which was full of life but in that flourishing life, it was hurt. The tree was living with a wire inside it. I went on observing, trying to come up with an answer to what could have happened between the tree and the wire. That's when I realized that the tree grew and intruded the wire's territory, the wire was unmoved so it cut into the tree's flesh however as the tree grew bigger it learned to tolerate the pain and also found a way to make a living through the pain, it swallowed the wire.

That way these two learnt to live together in harmony and also give a lesson or their passing a message to the onlookers, of the killer and victim living together. Again I found my eyes watery. But the message also came to me and I was resurrected in some way. I learnt to never cause pain to anyone as it would destroy their will to live, to never judge before knowing the story and also to spread a message of hope to the broken souls.

-THE END-

Tears were now her only way of expressing herself. As an introvert, she was done talking, to herself or even God. She just lay there on her bed, exhausted with life and fighting a battle that she wasn't going to win, at least not on her own. Warm tears became her friend, pouring down just in time to soothe the overwhelming pain that no medical practitioner could prescribe drugs for. The endorphins in the tears came in handy when words and ideas failed her.

Chishamiso had lost her mother when she was just five. Shami's mother succumbed to cervical cancer which had troubled her ever since her little girl was born. It had been a tough time for her whole family especially her daughter. She put up an armour of bravery fighting the disease, fearing for her child's welfare since the father was not in the picture. Her whole family felt she was a disgrace after she got impregnated by a famous polygamist in the village. The Father refused to be shamed further by allowing her daughter to be married to such a womaniser. It was agreed that the father of the unborn baby would not be mentioned in the house or anywhere else. Surprisingly it was the mother chasing the teenager

THE NARRATIVE: RUTENDO SAWALA SACRED VOCATION

away and felt her husband had always spoiled the mischievous girl. Luckily for her, her father stood his ground.

Life as unpredictable as it is. Things had not gone the way she had planned. After attaining a Business Management degree, Chishamiso failed to secure a job in the big city offices she had always dreamt of. Short employment contracts in small shops was all she could get. At first it was okay till she got tired of getting peanuts, bunched up with the same people that had struggled to get basic education. One day after locking the doors of the grocery store, she dropped the large lock not because she was exhausted with the days work, but she was tired of living this limited life. She had bigger dreams.

At the grocery store, she was just fulfilling someone else's dream. She began to walk to the bus stop but her thoughts were not with her. At this point she strongly wished for her mother's presence. Her presence and prayers would have made it easier now. As she dropped off, she passed her grandmother's house where she slept, straight to her uncle's house. Sekuru Bonjisi was her personal human diary.

THE NARRATIVE: RUTENDO SAWALA SACRED VOCATION

Bonjisi was the last born in her mother's family, little brother to Mai Shami. To his sister he was just like her first-born son. On her deathbed, Mai Shami begged in tears that Bonjisi should look after her daughter. He was the only person whom she trusted and was very supportive of her in the whole pregnancy issue. At just 18, Bonjisi had tasted fatherhood, now with a big responsibility of taking care of his sister's baby girl. Sekuru Bonjisi was not in the house, but his door was open. Since it was a Friday, she guessed he might have gone to the local tavern. She rested her feet on the old fashioned sofa and switched on the small TV. Sekuru always wanted to be ahead of everyone in the village. He even had a dvd player connected to the small TV. She went through his CD collection, but she found it very dull and boring. She switched off the television, she didn't think she had the patience to wait for her uncle. Instead, she pulled out her notepad and left a note for him.

In the morning, she was woken up by her grandfather's persistent cough outside. She got out of bed to greet and check on the old man. Her moody grandmother shouted, "Iwe Chishamiso, what is your salary really doing. Your grandfather has not been well for quite a long time and you have not been able to spare a cent for his medication. You should be grateful you even live here, you useless child born out of....."

"Mmmmmm mhai", Sekuru Bonjisi cut her off before she finished her sentence. By this time Shami was in tears. Sekuru Bonjisi continued to speak, Shami's grandmother walked away. He embraced his niece and comforted her, "Do not cry daughter of my blood, you know your grand mother, her oral closet is not in order" "No sekuru, she is right. I feel like I'm useless around here, and she has just confirmed it. I never wanted this life either, the salary from the shop is just from hand to mouth, I'm not growing". She let out a large piercing cry. For the first time after Mai Shami's death, he felt this excru ciating pain in his chest. It pained him to see his niece in such a state.

Sleeping that night wasn't easy for Sekuru Bonjisi. Shami was like his own daughter. Having spent years messing around with women, he hadn't settled with any one of them. Not even one had come claiming to have his child and now he was worried, he was fast running out of time. Shami was all he had. He pulled his blankets and sighed. A plan had to be made for Shami.

After a fortnight Sekuru Bonjisi woke up very early one morning before sunrise, he didn't want anyone to see him go out. His destination had to be a secret. His mind was focused on Mbuya Matambanadzo's house which was several kilometers away from his home. She was a family friend whom had always supported the family as the official 'sahwira'. It

VACHIKEPE AND THE 100 SAILORS: 23.10.2022

would be a long walk, but sekuru was determined. He knew it had to be done. After a long exhausting walk, Sekuru Bonjisi finally arrived. By this time, it was not so dark anymore. He could see his path more clearly. He clapped and shouted to announce his arrival as per custom. A young girl appeared from a small hut sepa rated from the modern house, roofed and painted in an attractive shade of blue. The girl greeted Bonjisi and quickly directed him to the hut where Mbuya Matambanadzo was sitting. The two exchanged greetings. Being a traditional healer, Mbuya Matambanadzo already knew why the man had come to her. She explained that she had had a vision regarding his niece's future as soon as he had walked into her compound.

All of a sudden Ambuya gave out a loud sound. Sekuru Bonjisi was almost pretty certain that it was a lion's roar. He sat close to the small door engulfed in fear. The young girl urged him not to be afraid, "Remember Ambuya is a 'mhondoro', come closer please". The girl was the interpreter to Ambuya's strange chantings.

He was later given instructions and a few concoctions which Shami had to use and was told to leave and not look back till he arrived back home. His thoughts were engulfed with what he had heard about the details of Shami's life and her future. He understood very well that telling his niece the disturbing information

THE NARRATIVE: RUTENDO SAWALA SACRED VOCATION

was going to be difficult. She was very stubborn, diluted with the white man's pedagogies she had experienced in university.

On his way home, he was greeted by many people. After all Sekuru Bonjisi was the village celebrity. The atten tion helped him redirect his thoughts. It was a cheerful moment until one drunkard shouted, "Ana Sekuru Bonjisi chiroorai, makore mangani muchizviwachira nekunodya sadza kwamai". Bonjisi fought really hard to calm his temper. He walked on and pretended not to have heard anything. The drunkard must have had the devil on him, he shouted again, "Wanzwa here Sekuru Bonjisi, roora urege kushandisa vana vevanhu". In a split of a second it was havoc in the dusty road. Sekuru Bonjisi beat up the drunkard and he bled profusely. A number of men tried to stop him, but Sekuru Bonjisi overpowered them all. The chaos came to a hault only when he felt he was done. He stood up and shook all the dirt off him. "This is the last time you will say rubbish to anyone, you hear me? I hope you are sober now", he said and walked away.

The remaining crowd made a lot of noise, some cheering and some swearing, declaring Sekuru Bonjisi' fate in the chief's court. Sekuru Bonjisi did not fear the chief, he was like a son to him. In several occa sions he had organized aid for the village especially community bore

THE NARRATIVE: RUTENDO SAWALA SACRED VOCATION

holes, grain and fertilizer distribution because of his political influence. When the matter was reported to the chief, it was taken lightly and never presented for public trial. The chief just had a secret meeting with Bonjisi. This was a return of favor accompanied by a friendly reproval.

Bonjisi's gut feeling was right. Shami protested and threw tantrums when she heard she had to perform the small ritual and take in some of the weird looking liquids her uncle had brought. At first sekuru Bonjisi was tolerant and patient, trying to reason with his niece. It came to a point where he got frustrated and told Shami he wasn't asking anymore, it was now an order. Chishamiso still resisted until her uncle told her never to run to him ever again when ever she had a problem. Chishamiso couldn't be bothered, this was like choosing God over his uncle, not that she was judging the african tradi tional religion. Loyalty was key to her. The following weeks were stressful as usual, in fact they were much more worse. Her boss told her that he was terminating her contract, the shop wasn't performing well. He had to close shop.

To Shami , this was so devastating. It was better to struggle whilst looking for greener pastures than to be stagnant and have absolutely nothing. She didn't cry this time, she felt numb. The disappointments in

her life were now too much, beyond her capabilities.

"Maybe Sekuru Bonjisi was right", she thought. Maybe she had to just go and apologize to her uncle and proceed with the the whole ritual ceremony. She even thought her religious beliefs had failed her and it was time to try out something new.

One Sunday, after church service she walked out remembering very little of what the preacher said . She spotted a colorful poster on the notice board . She walked closer and read it care fully. The poster was inviting young people to volunteer at an old people's home in one of the city suburbs. She felt this was an escape from all the stress she was going through. She didn't like the idea of doing unpaid work, but staying at home wasn't the best option considering her grandmother put so much pressure on her. She noted down the contact details below the poster. In a week the home responded and organized transport for her. She never bid farewell to anyone , she was so used to living notes for people and this time it was a long informative letter.

She found the old people's home a really sad environment, watching all those people that used to do everything for themselves depending on other people. Naturally she was a lovely person and her passionate and an empathetic side to her was

VACHIKEPE AND THE 100 SAILORS: 23.10.2022

THE NARRATIVE: RUTENDO SAWALA SACRED VOCATION

activated. She was the enthusiastic and approachable volunteer, always willing to assist and taking on tasks. Her experience at the home was like a beautiful vocation she felt she should have partook in a long time ago. She now realised the script she was following wasn't her own. As much as she was qualified in Business Management, there was a role she needed to play in life that didn't require educational qualifications.

Chishamiso began to understand that life isn't about earning big numbers to find happi ness and satisfaction. Serving others gave her a certain level of calmness even if she wasn't getting any renumeration. In this period she became closer to God, shaping and deepening her faith. She even found herself telling others that we live not for ourselves but for those vulnerable and in need. Most importantly glory belonged to God. All the difficulties she faced were not a hindrance to progress but a path leading to her divine calling.

After completing three months. Her service was evaluated, she had performed exceptionally well. She found herself obtaining a scholarship abroad to study Social Work. and this time she would get incentives. Life now became more bearable, blessings kept pouring one after the other.

THE NARRATIVE: PROGRESS MUWADZURI NDANGE NDIRI MUBUTIRO

CHIKAMU VI

Zuva rakazosara robuda musi waitevera, tava munyasi mechikomo chakazemberana nemusha kana kuti guta rovokushaya mutupo. Takaengerera muswere wose wezuva tichiongorora mafambiro aiita vagari veguta. Zuva richingonyura ndakatakura kasvinga kangu kehuni, uyuwo Gara masango akatakura kamutanda netutsuro tuviri twatainge tauraya murwendo rwedu rwokubva kuninga. Takasvikopinda muimba yandakanga ndambosiya mbuya voga zuva randakava Garamasango. Kupinda kwandakaita mumba umu kwakamutsa ndangariro neshungu zvandakanga ndakanganwa asi ndainge ndava umwe munhu. Pfungwa dzangu dzainge dzizere matsive kuvanhu vakandiita nherera ndichada mukaka. Misodzi yakaramba kubuda, ndakashanduka nousiku humwe kubva kubipwi kuenda kuchivangu.

Musi uyu kwaiva neguti saka kuvesa kwatakaita moto utsi hwakapwititika nesimba, vaiona varikure vaingoti idzangaradzimu rambuya vaHwiza asi Tirivangani akaramba kunyengedzwa. Nokudaro akada kuziva waiva mumba kwava kusvikoti kwati namadziro. Uyuwo Garamasango sezita rake wakanga avanzwa vachangopinda muchivanze kwakuti, "Zvaita tawana pekuvanda, nemazariro akaita rwizi handizivi kuti taizvifambisa sei".

Ndakamutarisa ndapererwa, kwainge kwakananga nyaya ndokwandaisaziva, "Wava kupenga here Garamasango?"

"Kwete vadzimai, imi ndimi motopenga. Makatanga rinhizve kundidana nezita? Makanganwasu kuti ndinonzi Mukanya".

"Vadzimai zvakare ndirinhi ikoko?"

"Kutanga nhasi chero ndange ndakunokudzosera kumusha kwako ndazofunga zvakanaka, nagatidzokere tose mang wana kunoedza".

100

THE NARRATIVE: PROGRESS MUWADZURI NDANGE NDIRI MUBUTIRO

Ndakasimuka ndoda zvino kuvava asi Garamasango wakangonongedzera kumusiwo norukuni rune moto, pandakacheuka ndokungopererwa. Vaivapo vangu babamunini, vakanga varamba kusiya tsika yavo yokuterera nyaya dzavanhu vari mumadziro.

"Bva zvakanaka, tinodzokera tose asi ndokunge wavimbisa kuti hauchabayazve moyo wangu".

Vakagogodza, Garamasango ndokuvati vapinde achipfinjura moto.

"Ndine urombo mawana mumba menyu mava neveni",

Manyepero omurume uyu, iko kungwara ndiMukanya chaiye. Idzi dzaive pfungwa dzangu asi meso aive kuna Tirivangani, mhandu yakandiparadzanisa navabereki vangu.

"Hapana hapo chakaipa ndangoti ndione wapinda mudumba ramai vangu. Ndatoti zvimwe mwana wangu wandakashaya makore manomwe apfuura wadzoka". "Sokundidapo, zvamanga manyan gira handiti manga mati dzawira mutswanda..." Izvi ndaingotukirira ndakavatarisa.

"Mwana wenyu, kureva here kuti kunyangarika kwakaita mwana makabva matama", uyu ndiGarama sango waiedza nepaanogona napo kundivharira kuti ndisataura.

"Kwete kwete, mwana waigara

nambuya. Zvino musi wafa mbuya ndomusi waashaikwa nanhasi dzinongova ngano".

"Aaah tariro yenyu ndoichamuraramisa rambai makadaro baba".

"Ndine chivimbo chokuti mupenyu ndosaka ndauya pandaona utsi kuti pwititi".

"Rambai makadaro baba rimwe zuva uchadzoka mwana wenyu. Zvino iye mwana wenyu wainzi ani zvimwe tingadaro takambosangana naye".

"Mbuya vake vakamuti Hwiza".

"Ko imi maida kuti anzi ani, asi maitongwa namai venyu kani mukweguru?"

"Kwete kwete, chete kungoti Hwiza izita redzinza saka raifanira kupiwa kumwanakomana".

"Apa ndinofunga marasika vakuru kana muchiri kufunga kuti imi varume ndimi mune ndebvu chete. Endai mundotarisa mudzimai wenyu kana musina kumudyisa anadzo dzakadarika dze......"

"Eeeeh saka imi ndimi varidzi vedunhu rino here?" Ndainge ndashatirwa, wakazviona Gara masango akaziva kwazvaizoguma achibva angondigurira munzira asi haana kwaakaenda. Babamunini vakaramba kumupa mhinduro. Ndaivaziva samazuva ose vakanga vasati varega hunhu hwavo hweku sada munhukadzi anovapindura.

VACHIKEPE AND THE 100 SAILORS: 23.10.2022

THE NARRATIVE: PROGRESS MUWADZURI NDANGE NDIRI MUBUTIRO

"Ndave kumbonoputsira matama pasi movata henyu zvakanaka ndichazokuonai mangwana kwachena". Vakataura vachibuda panze uyuwo Garamasango achitevera. Wakazodzoka aona kuti vapinda mumba vavhara sasa.

"Chinzwa zvino zano randaruka, ndaona chose kuti Tirivangani idera saka tinofanira kumuvhundutsa zvine ungwaru tikasa daro kunoedza takombwa. Handifungi kana azvibvuma kuti tiri vapfuuri unenge wanyumwa". Wakadaro Garamasango achipinda mumba pamwe nekuvhara sasa.

"Zvino wanga wafunga kuti todii?" Ndakadaro ndichiwedzera huni mumoto, mumba mainge motanga kutonhora.

"Tirivangani waenda kumba kwake asi haandovati akamirira kuti tivate. Zvino isu hatichavati muno tochibuda tondovata mugomo asi tisati taenda tinofanira kuvesa moto mukuru kuitira kuti kana Tirivangani akadzoka afunge kuti tichakas vinura".

"Unezano wena, zvechokwadi tsuro haiponi murutsva kaviri". "Zvino chisimuka tiende".

Ndakapakatira zvombo zvangu uyuwo Garamasango zvake achibva ogokera moto muhari ndokuenda zvedu muchikomo matainge taswera tiri. Takasvikopinda mukapako kanda kambozorora musi wandakaparadzana nambuya tichibva tavesa moto ndokuvata zvedu. Ndakapepuka mambakwedza ndichivhunduka ndokurangarira kuti ndainge ndakanganwa kubvunza Garamasango kuti zano rake raiva reyi. Ndichiri mukuzvishupa nepfungwa Garamasango wakadzoka mubako,

"Ko hwamanda waiwanepi zvakare wairidzirei?"

"Mbuya vako vakati kana tadzoka tinofanira kuridza hwamanda rutatu, zvekwandaiwana ndeimwe nyaya. Izvi zvinoitirwa kuudza vagari veino nyika uye matunhu akakomberedza kuti mambo wedunhu rino wadzoka".

"Pamwe naTirivangani kuti atitsvage nekutiuraya", ndakadaro ndashatirwa zvino.

"Usaita sekuti hausi murwi Hwiza. Tirivangani haambozivi kuti tisu".

"Nokuda kwei? Handiti watishambadza".

THE NARRATIVE: PROGRESS MUWADZURI NDANGE NDIRI MUBUTIRO

"Kwete Hwiza, iwe pamberi pavanhu uri mudzimai wangu anonzi Mhurai. Ibasa remasvikiro kuzonongedza kuti mambo ndoupi zvakare Tirivangani unenge atozvishambadza kare omene".

"Saka ndovimba neshoko rako here?" Ndakabvunza ndakamutarisa neziso raiti zano rako rikakona ndinokuita kanyama kanyama.

"Izvo zvava kwauri wozondiudzawo zvaunenge wafunga". Akadaro achikanyaira achibuda mubako, paakadzoka waiva nechikwari nemazai acho. Wakasvikochikanda muchoto ochibvisa manhenga nebanga rake.

"Ngatichidya tidzokere kwatinofanira kunge tiri. Wazofungei?" "Ndafunga kuva Mhurai".

"Bva zvakanaka zvino wochifanira kupfeka samadzimai omuno kuti vanhu vasatifungira zvakawanda. Asi kwekuzviwana..." "Izvo usatya, sokutaura kwawamboita mbuya vakasiya vagadzirisa zvose".

Ndakabuda mubako ndokudzoka ndakaita somwenga chaiye nezvipfeko zvambuya zvavakanga vandisiira mubutiro. Ndakamira ndichiti ndichanzwa Garamasango woti handei asi hapana wakataura. Pandakacheukira kwaari wakanga akaita somunhu warohwa nezvousiku iwo muromo wakanzi haradada. Ndainge ndotya kuti zvimwe warohwa nezvousiku ndokufamba ndichienda kwaari ndokusvikomuzungunisa,

"Garamasango kwakanaka here?" "Hongu kwakanaka wandivhundutsa, ndange ndave kutorota". "Heya kutorota hako. Chero uchinyepa handei hedu usati wakotsirazve", ndakadaro ndichiseka. Ndaiziva kuti waireva nhema, wainge akandiyeva asi waisada kuzvidudza. Takasvikonanga kwaTirivangani uko kwatakawana yava shina shina. Vamwewo ndovaisvika vakadzi, nezvirongo mumusoro varume mitanda yakapakatiranwa zvinova izvowo zvatakaita. Garamasango wakainda kwaiva navamwe varume iniwo ndobatsirana navamwe kuisa makate pamoto.

"Imi handikuzivii, asi makatamira muno zvino zvino?" "Ini ndinokuzivai chose hapana napaduku pamakashanduka

THE NARRATIVE: PROGRESS MUWADZURI NDANGE NDIRI MUBUTIRO

mainini. Muchandiziva zvenyu nguva pfupi iri kuuya". Ndaifunga kuti ndiri kutaurira mumoyo asi ndakazopatika mudzimai waTirivangani ave kuti, "Munondiziva sei ndisingakuzivii?"

"Mungasaziva munhu wamakauraya achifamba, nhasi muchadura". Handina kuziva zvakare kuti ndaitaurira pamu soro. Ndakazopatika mai Tirivangani vondizungunisa.

"Nhai kwakanaka here muri kutaura madimikira, nyat sodudzai ndinzwisise ".

"Kwete kwete vakoma , zvamunoona ndiri mupfuuri, ndakanetsana nemurume wangu nezuro ndokusaka pfungwa dzangu dzisina kugadzikana."

"Heya, saka mangopfuurawo napano zvino maziva sei kuti pano panemutambo. Munoziva here kuti murume wangu ndiye arikuda kugadzwa nhasi?"

"Ndinozviziva vakoma ini nemurume wangu takavata kwavamwene venyu uko, mbuya vaHwiza saka murume wenyu paationa wati hatingasiyi mutambo ndiko saka watimisa, tichapfuurira hedu ".

"Bva zvakanaka batai henyu basa nevamwe, murume wangu haana kumbenge andiudza zvese izvozvo. Kana izvozvi zvokuti arikugadzwa nhasi. Ndangozonzwa nehwamanda rungwanani. Zvisinei chishandai navamwe". Gadzirirai kuchema murume wenyu arikuzvisungirira zvino zvino mukanganwe kupururudza achiiswa ngundu youshe mumusoro, ndakadaro nechomumoyo nenzwi risina kana tsitsi.

CHIKAMU VII

"Mhurai! Mhurai! Mhurai! Izwi rakadana rutatu ndisati ndabomorwa musana neguri zvekuti dei ndisina kukura ndichisangana nezvakadai ndingadai ndakaridza mhere, asi ndakacheukira kwaibva zwi ndokuposhera rasha rakatsvuka asi ndakapotsa zvinonyadza. Iri igaramasango

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THE NARRATIVE: PROGRESS MUWADZURI NDANGE NDIRI MUBUTIRO

chairo ndakadaro nechomumoyo ndokuzoti, "Wauyirei kuno uchatibatisa?"

"Baba vangu vauya”, akapindura nezwi rairatidza kush ungurudzika.

"Zvino vachakurangarira here?"

"Vandirangarira asi ndaramba zvino varamba vachiita nharo, vanoziva vanga ravakandipisa padama ndarasa mombe nanhasi harina kupera".

"Ko Tirivangani wakuona here?"

"Wandiona ndikati mudzimai wake watikoka asi wazviramba achiti haana vanhu vaanoziva vakavata kwam buya vaHwiza zvino ndamusiya woenda kundonetsana nomudzimai wake".

"Tave kufanira kuchenjera zvino", ndakapindura ndisisina kugadzikana.

"Usatya zvako inzwa Mutazuri naDuvuro vadzvova vachiuya, hapana chichauya kwauri".

Chakashamisa vazhinji ndechokuti masvikiro makuru omumusha Mutazuri naDuvuro havana kuuya kwainge kwakaungana vanhu. Vakananga kudumba kwambuya vangu vakasvikopinda mumba vachiponda maoko vachiti,

"Mushaya chirashwa mauya mambo weduuu!"

Vanhu vakamhanyirana vachienda kwaiva namasvikiro pamwe naTirivangani ari mberi ndokusvikoti," ndauya". Asi asati agara pasi wakakandirwa panze achirohwa zvakaipa. Masvikiro akanga odya magaka mambishi iye ndokuti handinzwarwo ini mwana wovokushayamutupo.

"Munondimhura muchiti handisi mambo, mambo ndiHwiza uripi Hwizawo. Handiti wakanguri afa kare kare".

Vanhu zvino vainge vachingoshama miromo vakatarisa iye ndokuchiti zenze kumusana nyee.

VACHIKEPE AND THE 100 SAILORS:

THE NARRATIVE: PROGRESS MUWADZURI NDANGE NDIRI MUBUTIRO

"Munotarisei hamuzivisu kuti ndini ndakauraya mbuya, baba namai vaHwiza pamwe naye Hwiza wacho kuti nditore ushe uhu, nhasi moti heee Hwiza mupenyu. Hakuna unogara ushe uhu kana ndichifema. Aripakati pokuzavaza, Duvuro wakabuda mumba chiri chahwiriri ndok upinda pakati pavanhu wondikakata achipinda neni mumba. Avamo akadaidzira kuti,

"Nhamoinesu mwana waChirebvu, hauna mhosva youkuuraya vabereki vomudzimai wako uyu. Huya hako ugare naye timupfekedze ngundu youmambo hwamadzitateguru ake".

Ndakada kuti nditi haasi murume wangu ndikafunga kundichengeta kwaakanga aita kubva ndichisiiwa nambuya ndisina nezera rose ndichibva ndabata muromo…

WORDS IN VERSE IV:

Horror naTsomu-tsomu

Shamwari!

Nhasi ndarota moskito, Dzakazara mufiriji, wena!

Dzanga dzichitoruma-ruma Nyama, wena! Pandangoti, Heyi! Murikuitei ipapo? Dzabva dzafinyamisa Kumeso, dzakutogadzirira Kundiataka! Shamwari! Hana Yangu yarohwa nebuka! I think Ndatombochema, ndirikuhope Ikoko! Ndakuda kutiza, dzabva Dzangogwinhwa nemagetsi, Emufiriji dzese dzikabva Dzafira imomo! Dzichinyanya Kukara! Manje dzafira mukati! Firiji, payangondinzwa ndichidaro, Yabva yashatirwa wena! Ndokubva Yamera makumbo nemaoko!

Iwe mpfanha, indava uri Loudmouth! Gen’a!

Ndamerera!

Ndikatongoona kuti Kurova tobo! Ndiko!

Takaenda-takaenda!

Hakuna-munhu! Pandada Kuti nditizire panze! Shamwari! Ndabva ndaona, panze hakupo! Apa firiji irikutongouya, yakavhura Gambu-kambu! Haaa Ini ndabva Ndangovhara maziso! Ndikati Hamheno, ikoko! Pandazovhura Maziso, ndazongoona ndamurima! Ndiripakati pekugaya, shamwari…

Ndipo pandazongonzwa… Haaa, magetsi aenda! Shamwari! Ndabva

Ndapepuka, Fasta-fasta!

Na VaChikepe: The Poet

ukazofungisisa kuti...

WORDS IN VERSE IV: NHETEMBO

Ukafunga kuti tairiwona, Munzira dzataifamba richipfuura!

Ukafunga kuti taiti mufambanyore!

Ukafunga kuti tayiyemura Kuti rinotora vana!

Ukafunga kuti tayiyemura Kuti rinodzosa vana!

Ukazofunga kuti Rakazotora vana Ndokusadzosa vana!

Ukazofunga kuti Mufambanyore Wakava kwamutsiga nebwe!

Ukazofunga kuti Misodzi yekufarira rwendo Yakazova yekuchemedzwa nerwendo!

Ukazofungisisa kuti Asi zvakambonyatsa kufambasei?

Ukazofungisisa kuti Paradonha vana vakaita zvekudii?

Ukazofungisisa kuti Shuwa here vechidiki ndivo vaenda!

Ndipo unoona kuti Munhu akazvarwa nemukadzi Anemazuva mashoma panyika

Zororai murugare vanasikana Zorora murugare mujaha Mhuri dzarasikirwa ngadzinyaradzwe NaMweya munyaradzi

Na DrThembieTanya

BEYOND THE VISIBLE SUCCESS

The greatest enemy of anyone is themself. You can walk up into a room with a lot of inspiration around, but you then wonder how do you fail to capitalise on such. A lot of people get so disappointed when they have given all they can to someone to become a better person, and the person seems to be not seeing it. The main reason being one fails to understand that they are the ones who have the key to achieving more.

To conquer oneself is a greater victory than to conquer thousands in a battle. ~ Dalai Lama

The self is the one that determines how much you can get out of your life. If the self tells you that you can't, then truly, it is what you get. Everything that you see people achieving outwardly is a result of the victory one had on the inside to overcome the fear, negative motives, negative perceptions, self pity and a whole lot of other things.

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UNLOCKING

"building dreams into a lasting legacy"

NYAMUNDERO

You can only stand to conquer the world, if and when you conquer your self. What stops one to be what they desire is themself. No man can ever stop you when you give yourself the green light.

I am not as fierce as you would imagine or I don't go through hell, I do have things that frighten my imagination, but what makes me still go through, is the fact I have managed to conquer the man within.

As Michael Jordan once said, " You must expect great things of yourself before you can do them ." It's not what people expect of you to be, but what you expect of yourself. Everyday we wake up to a whole new day and set up, what we get out of it is mostly a result of the expectations you have as the day begins. Never expect to go beyond more than what you expect of yourself in life. Great ness grows to one's inclination of it.

The level of what you expect of yourself grows your imagination and course of actions you take towards whatever your life comes to be. Expect greater things for yourself more in your own space and that is what will push you to seek success. You attract who you are and not what others want of you; expectations becomes part of your identity.

It's not bad at all to expect great things, it is only what you will become. What you will achieve is a reflection of your expectations and conquering yourself to see it be.

By Frank Nyamundero

Duke Divinity School: Black Church Studies

Presents Student Preaching Sundays

Thanks Be To God! What a great joy, as the aspiring Theologians are being groomed to proclaim the Word of God in the society and beyond.

It was a great day at Covenant Presbyterian Church. Thank you so much Covenant Church and Rev. Lakesha Bradshaw Easter for the warm welcome, anointing and blessings.

Sermon Title: “We Are Alive to Live”

Scriptures: Jeremiah 32:1-3a, 6-15 1 Timothy 6: 6-19

To watch the service see the attached link: https://youtu.be/kh0t4ylWnDI

Below are excerpts from the KJV Bible:

1 Timothy 6: 6, "But godliness with contentment is great gain."

1 Timothy 6: 7, "For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we carry nothing out."

1 Timothy 6: 12, "Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, where unto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profes sion before many witnesses."

1 Timothy 6: 13, "I give thee charge in the sight of God, who quick eneth all things, and before Christ Jesus, who before Pontius Pilate witnessed a good confession."

By Brother:

Chikepe_

WHAT IS THE HUNDRED SAILORS?

TheHundred Sailors is an organization founded by Takudzwa Chikepe and has become a home to many -- different -- artists from different geographical locations etcetera. As they say; “love knows no boundaries,” so the same can be said about art, as strangers have become one, all in the spirit of art. The group carries a few handfuls of members, pocketful of souls and bucketful of love and the zeal to support the vision will mean that by the time we reach the end of the tunnel, the light will be held by many hands.

The Hundred Sailors has different groups namely; VaChikepe and The Hundred Sailors, The Sailors Club, The Sailors Review Team (in charge of The Sailors Review which comes out fortnightly begin ning), The Sailors Music Collection and also The International Sailors Affiliates.

VISION

Grooming world class artists through appreciating poetry and other forms of Art.

MISSION

Our mission is to publish the power of poetry and promote other forms of Art by creating a sustainable workstation for artists, to fully connect with each other and the world at large.

HOW TO JOIN main vhs THE GROUP

As regards subscribing and being part of The Hundred Sailors, new and existing members should each aim at paying USD24 for 2022. Starts with a deposit of USD6 or USD12 at first then consistently and flexibly paying USD2 at the start of each month. The required subscription fee is not for The Trust Fund board, but for The Hundred Sailors as it gives us the financial muscle to tackle any challenge which may be dressed in the costume which we may refer to as ‘need.’

BENEFITS OF SUBSCRIBING TO THE HUNDRED SAILORS TRUST FUND

As subscribed Sailors we have our works marketed regularly through the Sailors Review and other avenues.

Building artsists with humility, transparency, teamwork and trust.

There are synergistic benefits of belonging in an estab lished Poetry, Music and Arts ensemble. 1+1=3 which is what synergy is and 1+1=1 which is a meeting of our minds on all Art works.

A chance to be on international tours and to mix with Artists of resonance.

Our published Poetry and Articles are edited and proof read.

Raise our artistry skills bar by participating in regular in-house and outdoor competitions amongst fellow subscribed Sailors. Being a subscribed Sailor is also an entry point to trainings and seminars whenever arranged by the Hundred Sailors Trust Fund.

In each year we have anthologies published through Publisher T.P Chikepe (Pvt) Ltd and it is us the subscribing Sailors that are prioritized.

For us there is first priority placement to opportunities that arise e.g being given the first chance to perform throughout in-house or external functions hosted or graced by us as the Hundred Sailors ensemble.

For more information contact Brian Tawanda Manyati on +263 772

VACHIKEPE AND THE 100 SAILORS: