In today's digitally driven world, the chasm between tradition and modernity grows wider by the day and the relentless tide of social media and television threatens to erode the cultural foundations that once united us.
But amidst this sea of change, a clarion call echoes through the hearts of Zimbabweans: to reclaim and revitalise their rich cultural heritage.
Enter Chengeto Rufaro Mayowe, a visionary poet, author and cultural ambassador on a mission to rekindle the flames of Zimbabwe's forgotten traditions. With unwavering passion and creativity, Mayowe stands as a champion for cultural heritage who helps people reconnect with their forgotten past.
Mayowe’s work is rooted in Zimbabwean culture, myths, traditions and cultural representation and inclusion. Her unique style of writing and passion for her heritage has earned her several recognitions and accolades.
Her desire to improve the reading culture in Zimbabwe pushed her to start her own organisations called Mambokadzi Builds and Tales of Dzimbahwe and through these intiatives she has been actively involved in promoting reading and writing among underprivileged communities.
A community builder par excellence, Mayowe has so far donated over 120 books in these communities.
Mayowe’s consistency and resilience as a cultural ambassador is clear evidence that can overcome societal barriers and excel beyond the normal having broken Zimbabwe’s record for the most translated book for her book series “The Adventures of Nyenyedzi” which has been translated into 16 languages.
In addition to her literary work, Mayowe is a sought-after speaker who takes any opportunity she can to represent Zimbabwe when it comes to culture. Her passion for promoting Zimbabwean culture and heritage has earned her recognition as one of the key figures when it comes to culture.
“Without culture there is no history and without history there is no culture. Now more than ever it is imperative we uncover and tell the stories that make up the mosaic of our culture” said Mayowe.
She explained that her inspiration was drawn from everyday observations that made her realise cultural representation and inclusion where lacking and that pushed her to be the one to fill in the gap.
“Inspiration can be found in the little things that most don’t take note of but I did, like not finding my name on any keychain when l’m at an airport or not growing up reading books with people that had my name or looks. That was the surface but the more I wrote the more I realised how many people or shall l say minorities aren’t represented at all like people living with disabilities. So l try my best to incorporate these elements in my writing.” Said Mayowe.
Mayowe explained that the major challenge for Zimbabwean authors is support and she calls for better access to schools for writers as they try to ignite the reading culture in the youth whom she says are the leaders for tomorrow.
“Challenges I face are probably challenges faced by many writers which is support. There is hardly any support for writers who have books that can help students and adults alike. We are lucky however that we live in a digital era where books can reach any country which is something I value greatly. Another challenge is the red tape one has to go through in order to visit schools and speak on writing. I feel there should be a process for writers including vetting that’s done efficiently then approval to go within and spark that love of reading in schools. I however get invited to schools both private and government so that helps in spreading the word.”
Mayowe says she envisions younger generation that is proud of their heritage. In light of this, she is currently pushing a 1000 books campaign where she aims to donate books to all 10 provinces of Zimbabwe by 2025 with her main focus being on marginalized schools.
Mayowe says the 1000 book drive is open to all stakeholders willing to make a difference in educating the next generation of young leaders on the importance of preserving their cultural heritage.
Her Book Portfolio:
Mayowe boasts an impressive repertoire of 9 published works, spanning multiple genres.
Poetry Collections:
- Deja Vu - Exploring themes of grief and self-discovery
- About Love - A poignant reflection on love's complexities
- Souls of Forgotten Queens - Empowering verses for women's liberation
Fictional Works:
- Daughters of Fate Trilogy - A captivating series rooted in Zimbabwean mythology
- Ngano: When Spirits Talk - A collection of short stories inspired by Zimbabwean folklore
- Ancient Ones: Fire in the Wind - A novel delving into Zimbabwe's rich cultural heritage
- The Adventures of Nyenyedzi (Children's Book) - Teaching kids aged 0-10 about Zimbabwean customs and family values
It was Mahatma Gandhi who once observed that “a people without the knowledge of their past history,origins and culture is like a tree without roots” and Mayowe is clearly playing a huge role as a cultural ambassador and a custodian of the future.
This article was first drafted by Atrishya Gondo–a communications graduate intern at TisuMazwi.
Fungayi Antony Sox is the founder and managing partner at TisuMazwi –a consulting, communications, media, and publishing entity based in Harare. He is also an Alumnus of the YALI Regional Leadership Centre for Southern Africa and writes in his personal capacity. For feedback, he can be reached on +263 776 030 949 or at fungayisox@gmail.com.