Tsakani-based researcher Nokwanda Sihlali has published her first poetry collection titled Kwandis Shandis. Sihlali, who holds a Master of Art in Industrial Sociology, said the collection reflects her background in feminism, social justice, and her observations of human behaviour.

The poems are grouped into four themes: patriarchy and femicide in South Africa, the emotional complexity of anxious attachment in relationships, land issues affecting rural communities, and general reflections.

“Each poem has a special place in my heart because it is born from something I am either deeply curious about or well-versed in,” said Sihlali.

She explained that growing up in a township community shaped her writing as she witnessed inequality and gender dynamics in everyday life.

“These realities pushed me to write in ways that centre resilience and solidarity, showing how people resist erasure and claim dignity even in difficult conditions,” she said.

Sihlali described her writing process as “erratic”, with poems inspired by dreams, social media, and conversations with friends or family. Some poems were written years ago, while others were completed shortly before publication.

The process of self-publishing came with financial and logistical challenges, including raising funds, finding reviewers, and sourcing a reliable printer.

Sihlali cited African writers such as Malebo Sephodi, Gcina Mhlope, Makhosazana Xaba, and Fred Khumalo as inspirations. She said her poetry, while often dealing with heavy themes, aims to affirm joy and hope. Her message to aspiring poets is to invest in themselves and their craft.

“If the traditional publication route does not work, look for alternatives. Write and publish if that is what you want to do, but also write for yourself, for your release, for your mental health, and for your community,” she said.

The title Kwandis Shandis comes from a nickname derived from her name, Nokwanda, and the isiZulu word “shandis”, meaning “things”. She hopes to publish a children’s short story for her daughter in the future.

For enquiries, contact Sihlali on 076 763 4553.

ALSO READ: Female Metro police officers drive safety efforts in Ekurhuleni

ALSO READ: Kwatsaduza churches can list services in the African Reporter