GENERATION Civils, a construction company based in Harare, has joined forces with Mosci Engineering to support the POP Culture Explosion, a poetry initiative organised by the Spoken Word and Writers Association (SWWA).
The initiative's primary goal is to divert young people from drug abuse and promote a positive mindset, particularly regarding issues such as gender-based violence.
The competition's first two rounds were held from July 2 to August 14 at Batanai Gardens in Harare, while the final event is set for October 28 at a venue yet to be announced.
Cash prizes will be awarded to the top three winners of the spoken word poetry competition.
According to organisers, the main objective of the event is to bring together people from diverse backgrounds to witness poets and other artists creatively address and propose solutions to issues affecting their daily lives and societies.
“Spoken word is a potent tool for spreading information, which is why our arts organisation is collaborating with the corporate world,” said SWWA founder and president Lennox Gondo.
“This allows us to raise awareness for our brand while educating the masses about social issues, promoting a more peaceful society, and creating a conducive environment for creative collaborations with corporate entities."
He said poverty was beyond the physical condition as it is also a state of mind that can be changed through what is consumed in terms ofmusic, television, social media and the books that society reads.
SWWA, which is still in its infancy, was established with the mandate of amplifying the voices of writers and spoken word artists.
Over time, the organisation has expanded its scope to include script and screenplay writing, freelance journalism, stand-up comedy, motivational speaking, as well as advocating for both established and aspiring artists.
John Mandere, the CEO of Generation Civils, expressed his concern at rampant drug abuse and gender-based violence, referring to them as cancers that are corroding the social fabric. He emphasized the role of art in raising awareness and stressed the importance of corporate social responsibility.
“By partnering with SWWA, we aim to showcase what can be achieved when young people collaborate in the arts and corporate sectors,” he said.
Emmerson Nyamutswa, the managing director of Mosci Engineering, also underlined the significance of the initiative.
He noted that poetry provides a means for youth to express their emotions and thoughts, and the initiative allows communities to understand the aspirations of young people while uncovering their hidden talents.
“At Mosci Engineering, we have also partnered with SWWA by providing employment opportunities to young individuals in our Civil and Structural Engineering projects,” Nyamutswa said.
“This not only creates jobs but also imparts practical skills, keeping them engaged and steering them away from drug use.”
The event will also include contemporary music and dance.