…as Soofia International School creative writers in poetry scoop silver, bronze and special prize.

Twelve creative writing members of prose and poet[ess] one from Lower Secondary, eight learners studying International General Certificate of Secondary Education [IGCSE], one doing Advanced Subsidiary [AS], two students of Advanced Level [A Level] and two English Language teachers of Soofia International School attended an awards ceremony held at Lifestyle bookshop located in Pioneer Mall in Maseru on 15 June for best writers in Poetry on a topic entitled, ‘Independence.’

Our Advanced Level student, Neo Horoto received second position for silver medal, Lireko Lebetla [IGCSE] student was on third position for bronze medal while Reabetsoe Mohlapo received a ‘Special Award’ for an outstanding rehearsal of an acknowledged poem entitled ‘What if a Black Girl Knew’ by Dylem [Spoken Word Poetry].

The recitation of poems by our students and the two teachers show emerging talent that need to be nurtured and considered for publication. The theme as heard from the messages from each poet reflects on our identity as a crop of budding writers full of creativity and originality.

The Director of National State Library, Mr Lethibelane gave a speech aimed at encouraging young writers to embrace the art of writing for publication as Mr Hassan, founder of Bangladesh Poetry Corner organisation offers the opportunity for outstanding original poems to be published weekly in Lesotho Times newspapers.

Of the 25 creative writing crew, the shortlisted writers of our school who attended the event are: Neo Horoto, Lebo Ramohapi, Anand Shankar and Keketso Qhomane[AS/A level students], Lireko Lebetla, Reabetsoe Mohlapo, Kananelo Mdabudabu, Molefe Sefeane, Francis Obi, Moitheri Hanese, Masiu Mohoang, Nkileng Selialia all [IGCSE] students, Kamohelo Motleke [Lower Secondary] and two English language teachers, Mr Motseki Lenoela and Mr Naison T. Mafuku respectively.