I Remain UnFlappable; Poetry Is It

 

I continue to marvel at how poetry permeates every pore in the eco-system. I continue to experience unrivalled gladness at the unexpectedness of poetry.

I remain unflappable.

In mid-October this year 2023, Mahiri Books, Uganda's leading online bookstore, approached me with a proposal to expand my territory with a short video clip of me reading a poem from my second poetry collection, 'Dress me in Disobedience.'

To of my favourite poems in the collection are 'Bujumbura' and 'In The Restaurant.' Bujumbura uses Lake Tanganyika as a metaphor to describe the lifestyle I observed, and the after effects of political decisions, like a boomerang. 

It was previously published in Wasafiri Magazine in 2015.

In The Restaurant,' is one of my first erotic poems, written in 2006. It was part of my official declaration that I was a poet. Previously published in 'Drumvoices Revue,' in 2007, the validation gave me next level confidence.

I have been asked countless times by journalists worldwide to speak about my poetry journey, which I usually start with 

'At the age of six, I was drawn to the musicality of words and wanted to be a part of that creation. My father bought me lots of books to read and as a child, my school encouraged reading and writing, which I excelled at.'

It is true that childhood does influence our decisions as adults.

At the same time, those with sordid pasts, histories and herstories that they would rather leave behind in the darkness of decades gone, do not have to be defined by their past. Certain memories leave us hapless.

At 47, I am still redefining my career and taking on new skills, tasks, rewriting my ambitions and setting super ambitious goals, and watching myself as I surpass them, elevating myself to advanced goals.

Poetry is a space for me to be as imaginative as God when He created the world. How is that not miraculous?

Poetry is a time for me to declare all of my goals for the next 60 years. How is that not miraculous?

I write in honour of poets worldwide, of those who participate in poetry and those who publish and market poetry in various forms.

Thank you!

Bless!

Bev

Should Protocol Bring Pain or Pleasure?

In 2014, First lady of South Africa, Grace Machel, visited Uganda upon the invitation of a network of business women. The ceremony was officiated at Sheraton Hotel and I was given the distinct pleasure of hosting said event.

Dressed in an African print dress, and after several planning meetings, I was fully prepared.

The room was well lit, adorned with business products from leading Ugandan women like Ukonika of Bella wines and lots of small businesses with their ware on display.

Festive. Dressed in economic seriousness. I liked it.

I had not taken into account the issue of protocol, though. Bring the First Lady, there was a significant delay due to protocols, where she had to include a visit to The State House, which was followed by security detail.

The business community, not anxious at all, displayed their products to guests and made a few purchases. I, on the other hand, was pacing.

As more and more security and high ranking officials walked into the rom, I knew that the event was about to officially start. On the programme, was the leading of National anthems, which is never a problem except now we had to sing both the Uganda national anthem and the South Africa one. The sound team was ready with both.

Protocol. Protocol.

Which anthem should come first?

One official dressed in camouflage introduced himself to me as the Head of Protocol and told me that the anthem of the visiting dignitary is always led first.

Another person from the organising team told me that on every occasion, the anthem of the hosting country always precedes any other. And there I was, confused.

Graca Machel walked in, with style, and a dignified gait. She was taller than I thought and resplendent in her suit.

I stared at her for a half minute too long, before holding the microphone and announcing that we would begin by singing the South Africa national anthem.

Even before the drums, trumpets nd vuvuzelas had a chance to make their sound, Grace Machel waved her hands in the air.

"No, No, please. It is always the anthem of the host country that begins."

And that was my lesson on protocol. When it comes to over the top tasks like leading national anthems, inviting people to dinner or for photographs, delegate those to the organising team or to members in charge of protocol. As an emcee, we should take care of the more important speaking tasks.

Bless!

Bev

Book Review of Unbowed, a Memoir by Wangari Maathai

I have had many lengthy, heated and endearing conversations with my Kenyan friends over 'Unbowed,' a memoir by Professor Wangari Maathai, a Kenyan social, environmental and political activist. (May she continue to rest in peace).

On visiting Kenya, I have held literary discussions in some of the areas she designated for conservation and the arts and I have walked across Nairobi, marvelling at the green spaces under her efforts.

Last year in 2022, while delivering a creative presentation for feminists under Oxfam's climate change two-day conference, I met young feminists who worked at Prof. Wangari Maathai's Green Belt Movement in Kenya, and we discussed further the extraordinary nature of the first African woman to win the Nobel Peace Prize, 2004.

In this photo, we appreciate how every effort we make towards environmental protection and conservation, will serve our children and grandchildren well.

'Unbowed,' Wangari Maathai's memoir is such an intricate and well-woven story about her life. It is filled with statements, declarations and strong beliefs about her personal life and her unwavering commitment towards environmental and political transformation.

My fascination stemmed from her traditional birth in a mud-walled house in a small village in Ihithe, in the Central Highlands. Wangari's description of her home area is vivid and breathtaking. She speaks of fresh air and a reader can almost taste the crispy freshness. The abundance into which she was born, formed her appreciation for environmental conservation.

In her ideal quest, little did she know that the political machines would work strongly against her, causing unbearable stress on her life, work and family. She then joined the political platform to create further impact towards her cause, leaving more devastation in her wake and at the same time, giving her international platforms that she would never have deemed possible.

Her name, Wangari, is Kikuyu for 'Of the leopard,' How apt! Her mother told Wangari growing up, that if she ever saw a leopard's talk, that she should not step on it but tell the leopard that she was one of them.

From a modest beginning in life where boys were encouraged to go to school over girls, Wangari sailed through formal education with such brilliance, writing on slabs at the start, creating ripples as she gained formal knowledge and deeper understanding of the world.

White rhino, 2009 at Uganda Wildlife Education Centre.

All animals benefit from a protected environment,

During the time of colonialism, Wangari also realised that colonialism converted many values for example turning Kenya's economy into a cash economy, where trees became opportunities for cash, and started to be sold for timber, elephants for their  ivory and cheetahs for the sale of their skins. 

Before that, Wangari stated, her ancestors lived with the recognition of protecting their environment.

The Green Belt Movement, fighting against such practices, continued to grow and by the mid-1980s there were over two thousand women's groups managing nurseries and planting trees.

Note: The Green Belt Movement (GBM) was founded by Professor Wangari Maathai in 1977 under the auspices of the National Council of Women of Kenya (NCWK) to respond to the needs of rural Kenyan women who reported that their streams were drying up, their food supply was less secure, and they had to walk further and further to get firewood for fuel and fencing. (The Green Belt Movement website)

As she continued to pursue great heights, continued studying and changing lives, her marriage was annulled and her children faced the challenge of a situation of fending for her three children as a divorced woman.

With perseverance and tenacity, in 2004, Wangari Maathai was awarded the coveted Nobel Peace Prize for her contribution to sustainable development, democracy and peace.

In her memoir, we envision relentless pursuit of  ideals, goals and a sustainable life for the future, amidst insurmountable challenges. In her memoir, we learn that truth, justice and humanity are more important than selfish ambition and [political correctness.

Seven years after her award, in 2011, Wangari  succumbed to ovarian cancer.

We read her book and witness the marvellous impact of her work in Kenya and the world.

The copies are available in many bookstores around the world and online.

Reviewed by Beverley Nambozo Nsengiyunva

What do you do when you're too unwell to speak?

In 2016, I visited Hargeysa Somaliland, for a festival, where I was invited to speak, sell my books and participate in discussions. During my wait at Addis Ababa Airport, in the wee hours of 2am, which is not really 2am at airports, I sat for an hour or so, under the air conditioning and shortly after I was coughing, unable to speak and my throat was sore.

On arrival at the festival, I had to shout to make myself heard, which never helps a sore throat, does it? The hosts bought me strepsils which helped. On the day of my main delivery though, my throat was still sore and my voice croaky like a frog about to turn into a prince. It was still just a frog, though.

What did I do? 

I was well enough to move, eat and communicate with gestures and writing, and so on request for the team to amplify my sound, I spoke. I spoke with passion about poetry in Uganda, about my writing, about the Babishai Niwe Poetry Foundation and all the reasons why Uganda was a must-go-to destination for their insatiable literary appetites.

I was able to speak, with a bit of strain. I plunged forward and made sure that the people at the back of the large conference hall heard me too. 

If you are unwell and have been called to speak, listen to your body. If mobility is strenuous and the medication is particularly strong, making you drowsy, you may always ask for postponement. You may also pre-record the speech.

Another time was in September this year, where I was invited to speak at an online international conference organised by Speaking Woman Toastmasters in Kenya.

Two days before that, I was diagnosed with acute malaria. For the first time in 30 years, I was diagnosed by this female anopheles mosquito ridden infliction. It shocked my system, leaving me weak, dizzy and betrayed.

I generally consider myself healthy, with a robust immune system and here I was, with my wrist strapped to a cannula and a prescription of medicine.

The invitation was sent to me in July, which I was not going to refuse. It was an online conference and scheduled on the second day of medication, I bathed and dressed up sharply and intentionally for this speech. Because I speak quite often, my preparation techniques involve using flash cards and rehearsing my speech mentally.

While I used to practise public speaking daily, I do not do that anymore because my work now involves arduous hours of writing and conducting interviews as well, for research.

By 6pm, I had taken Ribena, a slice of well-cooked and clean roadside chicken from a reputable neighbourhood restaurant, which is helpful during malaria by the way and I was ready to speak. I immediately apologised that I was unable to stand during my speech and explained to them, while also flashing the cannula. 

 Launched into my well-prepared speech, during which I impressed myself. I had mentally pored through the details, the story lines, take-away lessons and the time for questions. I was unflappable and highly pleased with myself. Dressed immaculately, with respect to the occasion, my speech landed in all the right places.

Because of malaria, I had to occasionally dab myself with a face towel and take sips of water. After the questions, I then asked to be excused because I needed to lay down. It worked though. If you are unwell, there are ways to navigate a speech that you must deliver.

Again, listen to your body. Pre-record the speech where possible and always inform the organisers and your team.

Best!

Bev

Meeting Lupita Nyong'o, David Oyelowo and Respecting Actors

I like to watch the type of acting which creates so much tension that I am walking in and out of the room because  it is unbearable to sit through. If you watched the final match of World Cup 2022 between France and Argentina, then you'll know what I am talking about.

I like to observe cast members of a play, film or series who are able to interpret a script and create a reality that is palpable.

Beverley, Lupita Nyong'o, 2015 at Maisha Garden, Buziga Uganda, with the cast of 'Queen of Katwe'.

The first time I watched Lupita Nyong'o on television was on the Kenyan series, 'Shuga.' She showed such mastery on stage and looked spectacular while together with her fellow cast members, highlighted the lives of youthfulness, sex and the myriad of complexities in relationships.

I must have, at that time, probably for the 20th time in my life, cut my hair because of Lupita. Her acting impacted me so much that I followed the series and appreciated the dynamics and growing brilliance of the Kenyan film industry.

I have acted in school, church and during consultative work projects. Watching well developed television and theatre, I appreciate the massive effort that goes into scripting, editing, stage management, lighting, casting the right team, endless hours of back and forth, costume design and of course the enormous work of the actors who need to memorise their lines and embody their characters to perfection. 

Re-watching 'The Good Wife' has elevated my respect for good acting and the arduous hours that go into a seamless production.

Meeting Lupita with the rest of the crew of 'Queen of Katwe,' including the famous David Oyelowo, acting from a book whose hero Phiona Mutesi, has appeared in my poems, speeches and training sessions, was an honour. 

Phiona is a young lady whom I first met when she was in senior four, having just returned from the U.S where she played chess with Bill Gates and drew.

Her story is a highlight that depicts how despair and society's ills are not the end of our story; in fact they may be the chance for a great new beginning and rewriting.

Beverley with David Oyelowo, 2015 at Maisha Garden, Buziga-Uganda.

David Oyelowo who travelled with his family to Uganda in 2015, has a wealth of  fine acting under his belt, appearing in over 30 television shows, films and/or animations. He shared with us that he is deeply moved by the wealth and power of storytelling, and being given a chance to depict important life stories for millions of viewers across the world. Being a part of that was highly important in his career.

When I watch a good film with an equally impressive cast, I imagine myself as one of them, raising my right eyebrow and speaking fast without stuttering, wearing lipstick that never fades and high heels that never catch any dust. 

I imagine myself being able to cook a Sunday meal for ten within fifteen minutes, load the dishwasher afterwards and then complete a work proposal before swimming 50 laps in my backyard pool, because that is what good acting can do-achieve the impossible.

The moment in my life that I will savour though, is walking in New York City, Beverly Hills or  Las Vegas and bumping into an actor I highly respect. There will be no well-rehearsed speech, just gushes, hugs, selfies and unforgettable memories. That moment will come soon and I shall write about it then.

Respect actors. Respect writers. Respect art. and when you meet these creators, tell them what you think of their work. 

Bless!

Bev

From The Snow Leopard to Mayakovsky, by Jidi Majia.

 ‘First and foremost, we are convinced, since time immemorial, the most beautiful thing that has happened to us humans is that we are possessed of and by poetry,’ Jidi Majia from his essay, ‘Manifesto of Qinghai Lake International Poetry.

In 2017, I was invited to Beijing and Hebei Province in China to participate in two international poetry festivals. Those ten days were an unforgettable, worthwhile poetic journey that still impacts me today.

Having my first glimpse into the extraordinary nature of Chinese literature and the incredible power of their half century art, tradition and literary influence, left me in awe. In addition, the hospitality of the hosts was unrivalled.

This particular anthology which includes a vast collection of Jidi Majia’s poetry and collection of his essays, ‘From The Snow Leopard to Mayakovsky,’ is as profound, spiritually  moving and meaningful as words can get. The book is available in most online stores like Barnes and Noble, e-bay, Good Reads and so on. 

Jidi Majia is a highly respected and celebrated writer in China and meeting him, receiving an autographed copy of his book and learning more about his work, was an honour.

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Jidi Majia’s writing is soulful and speaks volumes of the power of keen observation and experiencing the nuances of nature, the ripples of our surroundings that we can easily miss, if we are not still. Deeply meditative, personal and interactive, a reader will be drawn to the careful structure of the poetry, the rhythm and pattern of the sentences and the carefully selected words.

Translated from Mandarin, it would be powerful to hear the original thought and process. The English version, reflective and musical, is testimony to the translator’s ability to read, listen and understand.

Once you are invited into the space of Chinese literature your appreciation shifts to a higher level. You are transported into history, into generations of wealth and lifestyle, into unique traditions and cultural strengths. 

During my ten days in China, staying in two vastly different provinces, one contemporary and urban and the other rural and equally festive, I was drawn to the hospitality, high level of preparation and promotion of their language and culture. Chinese of all ages were involved in the preparations of the festival. 

While at Beijing Normal University, most of the 25 year olds that we met, had started their Ph.Ds and were focused on a career trajectory. I stood next to them, proud of my achievements and my own journey. Learning about their proficient lifestyle.

Meeting writers and academics, intensely drawn to deep discussions and long term plans, was stimulating.

If you’re able to, purchase a copy of Jidi Majia’s book, ‘From The Snow Leopard to Mayakovsky.’  from the many online stores.

Reviewed by Beverley N Nsengiyunva 

keep it simple and POWERFUL

 Speaking is everyone's right. Speak to inform entertain, express, opine and deliberate. Speak. Listen. Read. Speak. Communicate. Use your words. Use your body. Use your clothes.

With public speaking, many people believe that once they are able to articulate without pause fillers, speak with accurate pronunciation, use memorable anecdotes and impress the audience with humor. Research shows that when we speak, our words contribute to 7% of the impactful communication.

If you want to communicate effectively, do not rely on words alone, use your body, your face and your clothes. It is highly advisable to only wear two colours minimum, with simple design. 

Avoid complicated patterns, like polka dots, stripes, tiny squares and shapes. Use one or two colours, and ensure that the print is simple.

This is because most often the backdrop will have an assortment of colours which will compete with yours, and then the bright light from cameras and the stage, will eventually drown out your appearance. Keep it simple. Keep it powerful.

Your clothes should enhance and not become a distraction. When you speak, the focus will then be on your communication, your gestures, your facial expression, your appropriate pauses and your ability to listen to the audience and engage them.

Best!

Beverley

BOOK REVIEW OF THE YEAR OF NUMBERS, BY PAULINA WYRZYKOWSKI.

  ‘The Year of Numbers’ written by Paulina Wyrzykowski, a Canadian Polish writer, is one of the most spell-binding realities highlighting the interaction between aid workers and refugees. 

Here, the refugees have names, personalities, dreams and aspirations. The aid workers, with their goal to save, come face to face with individuals who have an acute sense of self awareness and a frightening level of stoic confidence. This of course, would shatter anyone with a saviour complex and a pitiful need for validation.

Paulina writes this unapologetic novel from her own experience working in Cairo and meeting the layers of life between Egyptians, the Sudanese Government and the thousands of displaced families searching for a place they can call home. Home is not just a safe space with a bed and food. It also includes religion, which is part of the defining identity of those searching for refuge.

In this novel, Genevieve, the protagonist from Canada, is in Egypt, and in 2004, with other U.N workers, navigates the journey of refugees fleeing their countries in crises, transiting through Egypt to Europe, Canada or the U.S. 

What she does not imagine is that her life would be caught up in a perilous, romantic and lustful relationship with Alpha, a Sierra Leonean living in Egypt, who’s passionate about social justice, even at the cost of his own life. It is important to compare and contrast his care for the refugees against institutional care. 

Genevieve and Alpha share a complicated bond; Genevieve with her openness and need to talk and share and Alpha, with his ability to control her with his carefully managed conversations and sex. It is complex, just like the work of aid workers is complex. 

The UN Organisations that document the experiences and quantify the damage, take on impossible tasks and yet these tasks must be complete, in order for someone’s pain to be justified in order to have them resettled. It is important work which opens psychological doors that will never close again.

Paulina lived in Uganda, where I met her, and in 2008 launched this novel, which has been on my bookshelf for 15 years. When I picked the book up this week, at the beginning of October 2023, the pages had stuck. And I am the one who became glued to every word and every page.

Paulina at her book launch-2008, Kampala.

‘The Year of Numbers,’ is a riveting, highly informative and engaging fictional novel, which should be taught in schools and universities.

It was published in 2008 by Seraphim Editions, Ontario and is available on Amazon.

Reviewed by Beverley Nambozo Nsengiyunva