At the tender age of nine, Hakhakhi Ratshisusu from Murunwa believes she has what is needed to be a top praise poet. The Grade 4 learner from Nyatema Primary fell in love with poetry when she was only six.
"My parents were the people who inspired my work. They believed in my talent and gave me various opportunities to recite poetry," she said. Her dream is to be an acclaimed praise poet performing in front of presidents one day.
Hakhakhi sharpens her skills by performing for her classmates during arts and culture classes. She also participates in various school art and culture competitions. She says that being a praise poet enables her to address burning issues. "I want to reveal the true feelings of the things that hurt people inside; the things people are afraid to speak about out loud. So, through my work, I am able to speak for the voiceless on issues like GBV, xenophobia, or alcohol and drug abuse."
The young poet performs at weddings, parties, and other events. "I am one of the most booked local poets. I get booked every month," she said.
Hakhakhi showcased her poetic prowess during the Makhado Municipality's State of the Municipality function, held at the Makhado Show Grounds on 22 June.