The Chronicle
Mbulelo Mpofu,[email protected]
TREVOR Mawaka, a music educator and the choir director of Charleston Trust Primary School, is expanding his range of experience by editing poetry. This follows on from his editorial work in the upcoming poetry and art anthology
“Painted Poetry.”
Still, under production, the anthology is set to complement literary extra-curricular activities by the school.
Self-confidence is the best feeling, and Mawaka wants to inculcate it in his students.
“The idea (to pen an anthology) was to help pupils with an interest in poetry and creative painting to also get into the limelight and be inspired to push to the next level.
“After we had amazing success with the school choir, children in the poetry and the visual arts club felt somewhat left out and I thought as a person who either goes big or goes home why not do the unthinkable, collaborate with pupils for a book for pupils, by pupils.
“I always believe that we improve by doing. So, I wanted them to believe in themselves. We then partnered with those that do painting and drawing and birthed this idea together,” he told Chronicle Showbiz in an interview.
Featured in the anthology were in excess of 26 pupils from Grade 3 to 7 with poets like Lwandile Sikhosana, Lethabo Ndlovu, Mbalenhle Maphosa, and amazing artists like Louise Vosloo and her young sister Luanne Vosloo included.
Mawaka’s love for children sees him on a path to assembling a big choir project for young and talented artistic minds in the city.
Due to his efforts, the Charleston Trust Primary School Choir has had significant success in the music arena and has received a few nominations.
These include the 2022 Outstanding Newcomer nomination at the Roil Bulawayo Arts Awards (BAA) and the 2022 Arts and Culture nomination at the AfriCAN Children of the Year Awards (Acotya).
Charleston Trust Primary School Choir recently released visuals for its new single, “Bhonzo, The Song of Hope.” – @MbuMpofu