GIRLS in Tech Zimbabwe tomorrow hosts a virtual poetry slam to create a safe and inclusive space for participants to share their original spoken-word pieces related to gender-based violence (GBV) through video submissions.
The competition is part of the 16 Days of Activism against GBV, a global campaign to challenge violence against women and girls. The campaign runs every year from November 25 to December 10.
The Girls in Tech Zimbabwe programmes manager Anesu Eunice Muchirewesi told NewsDay Life & Style that they seek to raise awareness about the impact of GBV and the need for social change through the powerful medium of poetry.
“This poetry slam aims to provide a platform for individuals to express their thoughts, experiences and perspectives on GBV, empowerment, and social justice through the art of spoken word poetry as part of the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence campaign,” she said.
“Also, this poetry slam seeks to amplify the voices of survivors, activists and allies by providing a platform for their creative expression.”
Muchirewesi noted that the competition was divided into three age-based categories 10 to 14 years, 15 to 18 years and 19 years and above to ensure fair judging and recognition.
“Each participant will be required to upload their performance or written poem on a designated platform using specific themes to ensure easy tracking and amplification of the messages,” she said.
“A panel of experienced judges will evaluate the performances based on creativity, relevance to the theme, delivery and overall impact. Winners will then be selected from each category with prizes awarded accordingly.”