In the olden days, poets were considered highly talented individuals and were respected greatly within their societies for this rare gift of being able to write and recite poetry. 

“It is important to plan your retirement carefully and have something to keep yourself busy while at the same time providing some income.” This is an encouraging message of hope from a 69-year-old retired teacher, Tshimangadzo Esther Nevhutamba Sinyegwe of Vhutalu village, outside Thohoyandou.

Gumani Matshisevhe’s debut book - a motivational self-help guide titled Be the Driver of Your Life - has just been published and, like so many others out there, this first-time author says he too has the lockdown to thank for rediscovering his talent and putting it to good use.

Mulalo Siphuma, originally from Ha-Lambani Village in the Thulamela area, is a prolific motivational writer who reflects on everyday life and the challenges that come with it. His books, each one focussed on a specific topic, offer a positive perspective and gentle guidance.

Where is Ishy Malala? This is the question music lovers have been asking themselves for the past 15 years. Malala, of U taliwa zwi a vhavha fame, vanished into thin air after releasing his third album in 2005.

Being a musician is not for the faint-hearted. Speaking from own experience, Thabelo Mathuga says that this takes real commitment, dedication and a strong will to succeed, and it may take a long time before one eventually gets a break.

From a very young age, Emmanuel Kwinda always wanted to sit behind a radio microphone. Today, he is a very accomplished newsreader at Choice and Energy FM.

Tumelo Kgatla, known as “Meloproducedit” or just “Melo” in the Vhembe and Mopani districts, is a respected producer who has also made a name for himself as hip-hop singer.

When he was a child, Phindulo Mudzuli never dreamed that by the year 2021 he would be considered one of the most sought-after music producers-cum-engineers in the area.

“Ndo kwata badi. Ndo vhaisala. Ndo vhaisiwa. Ndi a funa vhathu mara a vha mpfuni.” Loosely translated: “I’m annoyed. I’m hurt. I have been hurt. I love people, but they don’t love me.”