A group of local authors recently joined writers, book clubs and activists at a special women’s festival aimed at celebrating the power of women’s voices and stories.

The authors were invited to attend the 76 Inked One-Day Women’s Festival at Millville in Johannesburg on Monday, August 10.

The event formed part of Women’s Month celebrations and was hosted by Book Cycle Capital in partnership with the Gauteng Department of Sports, Arts and Culture.

The festival was organised by author Zukiswa Wanner, who said the event was inspired by the story and legacy of Sibongile Makhabela, who was active during the 1976 period.

Makhabela is a South African development professional and trained social worker who has dedicated her life to activism and social justice. Her work has focused on building institutions that empower local communities, strengthen their capacity and hold those in power accountable.

The festival brought together authors from different generations, including Noziwe Cynthia, Kagiso Lesego Molope and Bulelwa Mabasa.

Special guests included Phemelo Motene and Angela Makholwa, who took part in discussions with Sally Ngobeni of Between the Covers Book Club, Gugulethu Shlali of Afrokulcha Book Club, Phumeza Mlokoti of Johannesburg Book Club and Lorraine Sithole of Bookworms Book Club.

Mbali Mbatha and Dr Fikile Mabena were also among those involved in the event.

Wanner said she was pleased with the turnout, particularly the participation of established authors, aspiring writers and activists.

She described the atmosphere as positive and energetic, saying the gathering provided an opportunity for people to interact, share ideas and celebrate literature.

Various book clubs were deliberately invited to the festival because, according to Wanner, stories only have meaning when people read and engage with them.

She said the event’s mission does not end with the festival, but is about taking its message to a new generation.

Wanner encouraged women to exercise their voting rights and to deliberately seek out books as a way of empowering themselves.

She also encouraged emerging writers to continue developing their voices through writing and reading.

“New writers are doing well through their self-expression and they should keep writing and reading,” she said.

The festival highlighted the important role that books, authors and readers continue to play in preserving stories, encouraging critical thought and ensuring that the experiences of different generations are passed on.