Popular multi-award-winning poet and praise singer Vendaboy Poet, born Lutendo Evens Mugagadeli, won the Outstanding Performance Award at the inaugural Limpopo Arts and Culture Awards on Friday, 21 November, at Meropa Casino. The award recognises his work in preserving culture, addressing social issues, and inspiring communities through poetry.
Receiving the award was particularly meaningful for him. "This recognition helps me grow as a poet and motivates me to keep working hard, especially after my recent tour in Europe," he said.
The awards were hosted by the Limpopo Arts and Culture Council (LACC), in partnership with the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC). Hundreds of artists, performers, and industry leaders attended the evening of music, dance, and poetry. Other honours included a Lifetime Achievement Award for Colbert Mukwevho.
Vendaboy grew up in Ha-Nthabalala village and began writing and performing poetry in 2008 while at Nthabiseng High School. His work spans six languages – Sepedi, Tshivenda, Tsonga, isiZulu, isiXhosa, and English – and draws on his heritage, culture, and life experiences.
"Poetry is a powerful way to preserve culture, promote peace, and bring people together. Poets are vessels, mouthpieces, and prophets. Every event should begin with poetry, and leaders, from mayors to kings, should be ushered in by poets," he said.
He has represented South Africa internationally, performing in Germany, Portugal, Spain, Italy, and Switzerland. He is also the only Venda artist to have performed for a sitting president twice. His awards include Best Poet at the Tshivenda Music Awards in 2012 and Best Praise Poet at the South African Traditional Music Awards in 2018.