Harare Review of Books

Congratulations to our Third Prize winner, Tapiwa Constance! She wins USD40, and a copy of Hope Masike’s poetry collection, Die With Me.

Tapiwa Constance is a 21 year old spoken word artist and beauty therapist who just started her journey earlier this year. Writing is her sanctuary and a place she finds peace and meaning. Passionate about storytelling and the healing power of art, she continues to craft pieces that reflect her heart and journey. 

Of Tapiwa’s poem, the judges said:

Tinashe Tafirenyika:

“Nyika Reloaded” was probably my favourite piece! I’m a poetry slam girlie myself and I could see this on stage in the book Cafe 10 years ago at The House of Hunger poetry slam!

It really took me back and was such a fun read.

I’d love to hear it on stage someday. I enjoyed that the poem was uplifting to young people, connecting new with old.

Sista Zai Zanda:

While not (yet) as strong a writer (many of us need editors who can sharpen our technique), this entry was heavy on slam poetry energy. I am here for that! I would have loved to have received this entry as a video or audio submission. The humour, the seamless blending of references to big tech and the rising ama2K were a great interpretation of theme. This poem sits comfortably within the Zim spoken word tradition, setting a bold new direction for that scene in terms of Speculative Fiction themes and content.

Here’s Tapiwa Constance’s poem!

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