Upcoming writers at DUT were this year (2014) given an opportunity to pen creative pieces on the life and achievements of the late former South African President, Nelson Mandela, and win amazing prizes.

The DUT Writing Centre hosted the prize giving ceremony: Heritage; Carrying forward the vision and values of a world icon, this week (Wednesday, 10 September 2014) at the Botanic Gardens Hall where the best writers were selected from short story writing, poetry and opinion pieces genres.

The competition received 60 entries in the first round, with 34 making it to the second round. Of the 34 candidates, a total of 28 made it to the final round. The 28 candidates received certificates and nine were selected for the top three from three different genres. The first prizes were Toshiba laptops with accessories. The second prizes were Apple iPads and the third prizes were e-Book readers.

Third year Journalism student, Thobele Nzama, who came first with her poem on Freedom said she was honoured to have participated in the competition and implored other students to continue Mandela’s legacy.

Dr Gift Mheta, Co-ordinator of the DUT Writing Centre, said the competition was in line with promoting both academic and creative writing among students. The competition is a student development initiative and all DUT full-time undergraduates with a passion for writing were eligible to enter the competition.

The writers described Madiba as a man who fought a multitude of social injustices and discrimination in their pieces. His resilient in the face of tribulations and his rise beyond tragic circumstances inspired them.

Best Short Story Writer of the Year, Agnes Mukurumbira, who is studying towards her B-Tech degree in Food Technology said she was ecstatic. Mukurumbira wrote a touching piece entitled: Breaking Free, which told a story about the challenges a young girl from a poor background in South Africa grows up in. “Discrimination and racism is rampant in South Africa and has often led to youths committing suicide yet it goes unnoticed. I put myself in my character’s shoes and try to describe how she felt based on other people’s experiences and mine. My piece was a tribute to Mandela for the woman that I have become,” said Mukurumbira.

Internationally published South African poet, playwright and performer, Malika Ndlovu graced the prize-giving ceremony. She shared stories of her personal life through brilliant poetry. During her presentation, Ndlovu shared her pieces of poetry that she wrote for Mandela before South Africa’s independence.

Dr Delysia Timm, who facilitated the event, said Ndlovu’s invitation was vital as her work has appeared on stages across South Africa and throughout the globe and her experience would benefit students.

-Gift Nyamapfene

Pictured: The DUT Writing Centre staff and the 2014 Winners of the Writing Competition.