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South African Poet, Sihle Ntuli, Shines on Global Literature Stage

Ntuli’s extraordinary talent was recently acknowledged on a big scale as he emerged victorious in the 2024 Patricia Kailis Fellowship writing competition, demonstrating his extraordinary aptitude and commitment to his trade.

‘’It means a lot to be able to represent my country on the world stage of literature, to have been the only African on the shortlist and to end up winning the whole thing is a big highlight of my poetry journey thus far, I am looking forward to heading to Australia for the fellowship,’’ he told HowSouth

Poet and classicist Sihle Ntuli, who was born in Durban, has achieved great success in the literary world. She holds a Master of Arts in Classical Civilizations and was formerly a professor at the University of the Free State.

Ntuli, the well-known author of “Stranger,” was awarded the 2019 CTL (Centre for Teaching and Learning) Innovation Award for Curriculum Design and Delivery while he was a student at the University of the Free State (2015).

His poetry was included on the Dalro Poetry Prize shortlist in 2017, and it has been published in a number of prestigious South African and continental publications, such as Lolwe, Down River Road, and The Johannesburg Review of Books.

He is also the author of two poetry books; Rumblin, published by uHlanga (2020) and Zabalaza Republic published by Botsotso (2023)

Sihle Ntuli’s exceptional talent was recognised on a grand scale when he won the 2024 Patricia Kailis Fellowship writing competition. His publications include Rumblin (uHlanga 2020) and his latest poetry collection, Zabalaza Republic (Botsotso 2023) Pictures: Supplied

Ntuli’s journey as a poet began when he was inspired by his city and where he comes from, his poems often reflect his inspiration of telling authentic stories while exploring new and innovative ways to creatively share his message.

‘’I always hope that it becomes evident that my intention is to always honour and respect the craft, and in many ways the craft has done the same for me,’’ he says.

His writing strikes a very personal chord with readers due to his extraordinary ability to portray nuanced emotions. He goes on to tell HowSouth that he believes his poetry conveys to readers the idea that beauty can still be found in this horrible world through the power of creativity.

Not only is Ntuli’s win a noteworthy personal accomplishment, but it also represents the dynamic artistic talent of the city and a source of pride for the Durban literary community.

To showcase the vibrant literary landscape in South Africa, the poet hopes to inspire other authors in the nation to send their writing to foreign publications.

 

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