At the heart of Durban University of Technology (DUT), beyond the classrooms and lecture halls, lies a vibrant community where words are woven into art, and emotions take the stage through spoken word poetry. This community is USiba Lwabalobi, a poetry club that has become a sanctuary for students who find solace, expression, and purpose in poetry.

Lungelo Samkelo Buthelezi, a third-year student pursuing a Bachelor of the Built Environment in Town and Regional Planning, is one of the voices that have found a home within this club. Buthelezi was born at Newcastle and raised in the small town of KwaNongoma, He had always loved poetry, but his journey as a performer only truly began when he joined USiba Lwabalobi in March 2023 at DUT.

“I was a poetry writer at that time, but I never recited or performed. That changed when I met the members and saw how creative and welcoming they were. They inspired me, and I was grateful to be properly welcomed by Sandile Bhubesi Chonco, Sandile Masango, and Melusi Buthelezi, who helped me refine my craft. Eventually, I stepped onto the stage and became a performer,” he explained.

USiba Lwabalobi poetry club was founded in 2022 by DUT students and alumni to create a hub of literature, entertainment, and artistic expression. Among those students were Londiwe Maphalala, Sandile Bhubesi Chonco, Sbonokuhle Zungu, Sandile Masango, and Nosihle Dlamini. The poetry club has become a space where poets and singers could share their art, perform their pieces, and uplift one another through words and rhythm.

Every Wednesday evening at Steve Biko Campus, the club hosts poetry sessions where students gather to perform and listen, creating an environment where artistry flourishes. The stage welcomes all whether seasoned performers or first-time poets offering them the opportunity to express themselves freely.

For Buthelezi , USiba Lwabalobi is more than just a club. It is a movement, a hub of intellectual and creative writers striving to establish a recognisable artistic platform for aspiring poets, spoken word artists, and poetry enthusiasts not only at DUT but across South Africa.

This passion for poetry goes beyond performance. The club embraces DUT’s core values honesty, respect, and transparency not only in their art but also in academics and outreach. Members often assist fellow students and high school learners, sharing their knowledge and skills to uplift others.

As the current treasurer of the club, Buthelezi envisions a future where USiba Lwabalobi thrives beyond DUT’s walls. One of his main goals for 2025 is to secure financial support to monetise their art and platform.

“We have so many people who love and appreciate what we do, but we lack financial support from the institution and sponsors,” he explains. Buthelezi further explained that if they could get the rightful sponsors, they can enhance their craft and host larger events for their growing audience.

Despite these challenges, the passion within USiba Lwabalobi remains unshaken. The poets continue to write, perform, and uplift one another, proving that poetry is more than just words it is a movement, a community, and a voice for those who dare to speak.

Buthelezi further encourages first-year students to join the club and share their talents with them.

He offers words of encouragement by saying the door is always open and do not be afraid to make mistakes, mistakes help us learn. “Never doubt your craft because poetry is a complex art form that thrives on authenticity. Be yourself, and let your words speak your truth,” he said.

Through USiba Lwabalobi, poetry at DUT is not just surviving, it is thriving one spoken word at a time.

Pictured: Poet, Lungelo Samkelo Buthelezi, at the event.

Sinamile Sithole