Midlands Arts Group Unveils Project: Empowering Poets With Disabilities

The Midlands-based arts organization Hodzeko Arts and Culture Association (HACA) has initiated a project aimed at highlighting the creations of poets who have disabilities.

Dumisani Ndlovu, the executive director of HACA, stated that this program was designed to foster inclusivity and representation within literature by offering a stage for various voices.

The Hodzeko Arts and Culture Association has announced the release of “Voices of Resilience,” a pioneering compilation showcasing the works of up-and-coming Zimbabwean poets who have disabilities. This announcement was made by Ndlovu at an event held at the Gweru Press Club.

Ndlovu stated that the initiative, named “Voices of Resilience—An Anthology to Honor Zimbabwean Poets with Disabilities,” received funding from the European Union via assistance from the Culture Fund of Zimbabwe.

“This program seeks to foster inclusivity and representation within literature by offering a stage where skilled poets can convey their stories and viewpoints,” he stated.

The Resilient Voices initiative will start with outreach activities aimed at identifying and enlisting emerging poets with disabilities throughout Zimbabwe.

Ndlovu stated that his organization will work alongside local disability groups to organize workshops where experienced poets and writers will lead sessions on teaching poetry-writing skills and fostering self-expression.

“These workshops will foster a nurturing atmosphere where participants can refine their skills,” he stated.

The collection, named Nhetsutetsu Dzamanyukira, meaning abundant varied expressions, will include Shona poetry accompanied by Braille translations to make it accessible for visually impaired readers.

He mentioned that the anthology will highlight the “strength and ingenuity” of more than 100 poets addressing important topics like disability rights, climate change, and social discrimination, along with various other issues.

“This collection doesn’t just amplify their (the poets with disabilities) voices; it also promotes a greater awareness of the obstacles encountered by people with disabilities within our society,” explained Ndlovu.