Zewande BK Bhengu Named South African Slam Champion in Performance Poetry
Durban – Zewande BK Bhengu has been awarded the title of South African Slam Poetry Champion for 2025.
After a week of performances, training, and collaboration in the field, Bhengu secured this prestigious title at the 29th Poetry Africa festival.
The slam poetry competition, hosted by the Centre for Creative Arts at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, was held at Seabrooke’s Theatre, concluding on Saturday, 11 October 2025.
MC Quaz Roodt led the Slam Jam Finale, showcasing five finalists: Belita Andre, Karabo Bopape, Tiisetso Maeane, Tshepo Molefe, and Zewande BK Bhengu, who captivated judges Olive Olusegun (SA), Nick Makoha (Uganda/UK), and Luleka Mhlanzi (South Africa) with their performances.
After the eliminations, Bhengu emerged victorious, with Tiisetso Maeane taking second place and Belita Andre coming in third.
Bhengu shared that his last performance was in 2018, seven years ago, emphasizing that his return to poetry demonstrates that “writer’s block is merely a transient phase.”
His poetry powerfully explores themes of identity, the impact of poverty, and the significance of mothers.
Upon reflecting on his emotions after winning the title, Bhengu said: “It was validating, humbling, and a bit awkward.”
He added: “Having been absent from the Slam Poetry scene for most of the past decade, my choice to compete again was not made lightly.
“I had worries about going up against younger poets who have been refining their skills in my absence, along with doubts about my own abilities and whether I still had what it takes, as well as fears about winning.
“I also naturally faced the Bazothini-Abantu (What will people say?) syndrome.
“Being received back so warmly and crowned champion at the nation’s top poetry slam was incredibly validating, and I appreciate it deeply.”
He further expressed his feelings about the competition: “Slam poetry has always held a special place in my heart.
“It has contributed significantly to my development as a writer and performer.
“I believe it plays a vital role in the poetry ecosystem, having birthed some of the most breathtaking poets and poetry for nearly three decades.
“The Poetry Africa Slam Jam highlighted this reality, drawing exceptional writers from across South Africa.
“Every effort is aimed at uplifting the brightest talents, and I truly admire that.”
Bhengu advises aspiring poets to “define a clear goal and ensure every decision aligns with that objective.”
He leaves the festival with a cash prize of R20,000, an opportunity for an international poetry trip, and will represent South Africa at home during the World Championship hosted by Poetry Africa in 2026.
Over the course of the festival, more than 100 poets, writers, and facilitators took part in both in-person and online sessions.
In addition to sold-out shows, the program focused on enhancing industry expertise.
A DALRO workshop led by Katlego Gabashane offered practical knowledge on copyright and creative rights, while the Poetry Comedy Storytelling Council (PoeComSto) launched its KwaZulu-Natal initiative, which includes a Data Mapping Project and new platforms to foster collaboration and boost the creative economy.
Other highlights included the SAIDE Scholar Session, supported by the Kresge Foundation, where Siyaphumelela Scholars presented their original I Am poems.
This partnership between SAIDE and Poetry Africa continues to empower young voices and inspire change through storytelling.
Emerging talent Naledi Mafole won the Poetry Africa Chalkboard Slam. Attendees enjoyed the theatrical production Two Sides of the Same Coin by the UJ Arts Academy, directed by Xolani Mbhele. The performance received acclaim, showcasing the remarkable talent and commitment of the student performers.
During the festival’s closing ceremony, Ismail Mahomed, director of the Centre for Creative Arts at UKZN, expressed gratitude to the many sponsors who contributed to this year’s success.
The University of KwaZulu-Natal, the Centre for Creative Arts, and the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Sports, Arts and Culture remain dedicated to supporting the arts and various festivals.
Support from the National Lotteries Commission and the University of Johannesburg Arts and Culture Centre was greatly appreciated.
A special thanks goes to the French Institute of South Africa, Creative Spill, the Ivory Coast Embassy, the Embassy of Ukraine, and the Ukrainian Institute for facilitating the involvement of international poets, which enhanced the festival’s global outreach.
The 30th edition in 2026 will host the World Poetry Slam Championships, and poetry enthusiasts are encouraged to mark their calendars for 5 to 10 October 2026, as Durban again affirms its status as a UNESCO City of Literature.