MOUNT Edgecombe author Gaishrie Sharon Singh is celebrating a significant literary milestone after two of her poems were published in the newly released anthology, We Are Because We Are.

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Singh was among 15 South African poets whose work features in the collection, which was officially launched at Noah’s on The Bluff on June 28. During the launch, she also took to the stage to recite her poems and share her reflections on what it means to be South African.

Speaking about the anthology, Singh said its title captured a philosophy that has shaped her life.

“The title, We Are Because We Are, speaks to a truth I have carried throughout my life: none of us walk this journey alone. Our stories are shaped by those who came before us, the communities that nurture us, and the connections we forge along the way. This anthology beautifully reflects that spirit, reminding us that individual voices become more powerful when woven into a shared narrative. I am honoured that my poems are included in a collection that celebrates our common humanity through the transformative power of words,” she said.

The anthology is the debut publication from Paper Trail Literary Press and is inspired by the philosophy of ubuntu, “I am because we are”.

It brings together the voices of 15 poets from different generations, backgrounds and lived experiences, exploring themes of identity, belonging, resilience and hope.

Founder Ekta Somera said the collection marked the beginning of a literary journey rooted in community.
“This is the debut book from Paper Trail Literary Press and marks the beginning of a journey rooted in and driven by our literary community,” she said.

She added that every contributor brought something meaningful to the anthology and that each voice reflected the collective power of being South African.

The launch celebrated South Africa’s diversity through poetry, with contributors reading their work to an audience. The event also featured discussions on culture, shared experiences and the importance of storytelling in preserving the nation’s rich heritage.

The celebration concluded with the poets exchanging signed copies of the anthology, highlighting the sense of community and connection that had developed through the project.

More than a collection of poems, We Are Because We Are serves as a celebration of ubuntu, demonstrating how literature can bring together different voices to tell the shared story of South Africa.

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