In a groundbreaking event for the poetry community, the first-ever Poetry Slam Collective unfolded over the weekend, marking a significant milestone in the world of spoken word artistry. Poetry slam is an art event at which poets perform spoken word poetry before live audio and they are normally lively with audience’s participation. Organized as a standalone showcase of poetic talent, the event diverged from traditional formats by focusing solely on poetry slam performances, igniting hopes of industry evolution among participating poets. “In previous years, poetry slams were often part of larger cultural gatherings or accompanied by music performances. However, the decision to host a standalone poetry slam underscored a growing recognition of spoken word as a distinct and impactful art form deserving of its spotlight,” said Sylvestre Nsengimana, the founder of Poetry Slam Collective. Held at Goethe Institute, Kiyovu, the Poetry Slam Collective drew a diverse audience eager to witness the raw power of spoken word poetry. The stage became a platform for artists to unleash their creativity, sharing poignant narratives, impassioned verses, and thought-provoking insights. It's exhilarating to see poetry take center stage like never before, dedicating an entire event to poetry slam performances, we're sending a powerful message about the depth and richness of our craft. This could be a game-changer for the poetry community, said Grace Mugaragu also known as Kwezi in poetry. The Poetry Slam Collective featured a lineup of both emerging talents and established voices, each delivering their unique blend of rhythm, rhyme, and emotion. A Tale of Redemption was the poetic live speech permanence, beckoning the audience to envision Rwanda's trajectory three decades into the future. “It delves into the intricate layers of our society's evolution towards unity, reconciliation, and a promising tomorrow. With each verse, we embark on a profound exploration of the myriad conflicts and trials that punctuate our daily lives, yet simultaneously celebrate the unwavering resilience and boundless potential for metamorphosis within our communities,” Zawadi Tumukunde, who performed in the youth live speak, told The New Times. “This live performance of poetic expression served as a poignant testament to our collective journey and the enduring spirit that propels us forward,” she added. Renowned poet Carine Maniraguha was among key participating poets at the event which, she said, has the potential to catalyze a new era of growth and recognition for poets showcasing the diversity and dynamism of spoken word poetry in its ‘purest form’. “We're laying the groundwork for greater opportunities and visibility within the industry, Maniraguha said. As the final echoes of applause faded and poets mingled with attendees, conversations buzzed with optimism and anticipation for the future of poetry. Many envisioned a landscape where poetry slams would become regular fixtures on the cultural calendar, drawing larger audiences and fostering greater appreciation for the spoken word. Looking ahead, organizers of the Poetry Slam Collective expressed plans to make more events, providing a dedicated platform for poets to showcase their talent and creativity. This inaugural Poetry Slam Collective marks a pivotal moment for young talents and aspiring poets alike, offering a platform for them to hone their craft, share their voices, and gain invaluable experience in the industry, said Alice Kubwimana, the project manager at L’Espace. As the curtain fell on the inaugural poetry event, poets and audience members alike departed with a sense of excitement and possibility, united in their belief that this event could be the catalyst for a renaissance in the poetry industry. With passion and perseverance, they embark on a journey to redefine the boundaries of spoken word artistry and pave the way for a vibrant future filled with verse, rhythm, and imagination.
