Poetry at Coffee At Last, in 2011

 Develop a skill. Harness that skill regularly. Maintain consistency with those who excel in that field and whose hearts are geared towards your growth.

Poetry.

In 2011, I performed my first poetry solo. This was at Coffee At Last, that serves a scrumptious meal with delectable coffee. Their very first location was in Makindye, about 20 metres from where they are located now.

I have been friends with the owners, Albert and Amanda, for a long while. They offered me space, infusing coffee and poetry, as they started their business.

With each time I focus on my poetry, so many doors open for me, especially with travel and networking with exceptional talent and globally renowned poets.

This year 2024 is one of those years.

What skill are you developing? Gossiping is not a skill, unless you're gossiping about yourself, which could then develop into theatrical monologue.

Social media trolling is not a skill, unless you're developing a script for NBC (U.S), DSTV and other networks or worthwhile media.

Develop a skill.

Harness it with those not only skilled at it but also committed to your growth. Pay them for that training.

Become unrecognizable with your skill.

Bless!

Beverley Nambozo Nsengiyunva.

I empower individuals on their journey of communication. I use poetry, speaking and writing.

The Animals of My Earth School, by Mildred Barya; Reviewed by Beverley

'The Animals of My Earth School,' is a gift to readers of all ages, because it has dared to imagine, to feel and to experience animals as they think deeply, live intentionally and thrive. Imagine 'The Life of Pi', as a poetry collection.

There is a gravitation towards escaping to a quiet place to read poetry, in order to dwell in its mystery and enchantment.

Mildred Barya has taken us to a world where it is possible for peace to reign. An animal utopia of sorts. And yet she is careful to draw parallel lines between human consciousness.

Locusts. What a brave and apt poem, that declares humanity and love as the victors of our life's quest. Despite numerous attempts at vanity, greed and disloyalty, consciousness always wins.

Falling in Love. The image of turkeys and driving mirrors. How extraordinary and accurate at the same time.

Unrequited, the simple and yet complex interaction between a human and a cat, stray or otherwise. Similar to our interactions with acquaintances.

Not only do we become drawn into an animal universe, noticing animals which we may have previously ignored, we also enjoy the stories, the dialogue, the dare-devil missteps and the entertainment of daily life.

The poetry is well structured, orchestrated to fit into our lives as we seek answers, as we look for that word which summarises how we feel and as we observe so many untold mishaps around us. The animals are a force to reckon with, engaging in the best and worst ways, allowing us to consider our actions and to dream at the same time, of possibilities.

From ants, beetles, chicken, antelope and many more, the range of selection also gives the reader a range of emotion and movement to explore.

The Animals of my Earth School is available at African Writers Trust and on Amazon. Get your copy. You won't regret it.

Reviewed by Beverley