The stage is set for one of the most electrifying cultural moments of the year as Poetry Africa, presented by the Centre for Creative Arts at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), crowns South Africa’s National Slam Poetry Champion.
From 10–11 October 2025, Durban’s Seabrooke’s Theatre will host the Slam Jam semi-finals and finals, where ten of the country’s sharpest voices will compete for the R20,000 cash prize, an international trip, and the honour of representing South Africa at the 5th World Poetry Slam in 2026, hosted by Poetry Africa.
The Power of Slam Poetry
Slam poetry has grown into one of the fastest-rising art forms in South Africa, combining oral tradition, spoken word, and performance theatre. It resonates deeply with audiences by tackling social justice, identity, politics, love, and community in a way that is raw, relatable, and unfiltered.
It is not only a competition — it’s a movement that empowers voices often unheard, offering a stage for authentic storytelling and cultural activism.
“Slam poetry is about urgency, truth, and connection. It’s where art and activism collide, and every voice counts,” says Hope Netshivhambe, semi-final juror and SAFTA-winning storyteller.
Meet the Semi-Finalists
On Friday, 10 October, ten finalists will bring their best verses, rhythm, and stage presence to the spotlight:
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Belita Andre
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Hlengiwe Mnyandu
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Karabo Bopape
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Khayalethu Mguzulo
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Natasha Mubanga
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Noel Diketane
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Rea Mmethi
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Tiisetso Maeane
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Tshepo Molefe
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Zewande Bhengu
They will compete before a dynamic international jury:
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Hope Netshivhambe (South Africa) – storyteller, voice artist, and activist.
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Dominion (Kenya) – Eldoret’s 2024 Poet of the Year, 2025 World Slam runner-up, and reigning Kenyan Slam Champion.
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Tawhida Tanya Evanson (Canada) – poet, musician, and multimedia artist exploring African diasporic identity and Sufi spirituality.
The semi-finals will be hosted by Durban poet Page Ngwenya.
Finals Night – Raising the Stakes
On Saturday, 11 October, the finalists who make it through will battle for the national title. The finals will also feature a special set by 2024 finalist Olive Olusegun, who ranked 10th at the 2025 World Poetry Slam and is known for fusing spoken word with visual art, animation, and film.
The finals jury includes:
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Olive Olusegun (South Africa) – award-winning poet and multi-disciplinary artist.
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Dr Nick Makoha (Uganda/UK) – Obsidian Foundation founder, Penguin author of The New Carthaginians, and winner of major international poetry awards.
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Huda Fadlelmawla (Huda the Goddess) (Sudan/Australia) – spoken-word activist, winner of the 2025 UNHCR–SBS Les Murray Award, and the first African woman invited to the World Slam Poetry Championship in Belgium.
Building the Next Generation – Chalkboard Slammers
Earlier on finals day, the festival will also host the Chalkboard Slammers competition, giving high school learners (Grades 8–12) the chance to showcase their talent before an internationally acclaimed panel. Many of South Africa’s top poets first discovered their voice in school competitions, and this stage could launch tomorrow’s champions.
Why It Matters
With roots in oral storytelling traditions and branches reaching into global artistic spaces, slam poetry today represents more than art — it represents identity, healing, activism, and cultural pride.
Poetry Africa’s Slam Jam has become a continental benchmark, connecting South African poets to international networks, audiences, and opportunities. By winning this national crown, one poet will carry the nation’s voice to the 2026 World Poetry Slam, amplifying South African stories on the global stage.
Event Details
📅 Semi-finals: Friday, 10 October 2025, 19:00
📅 Finals: Saturday, 11 October 2025, 19:00
📍 Venue: Seabrooke’s Theatre, Durban
🎤 Highlight: Guest performance by Olive Olusegun
🏆 Prize: R20,000 + International trip + Team SA slot at the 2026 World Poetry Slam
