Mangaliso Kabulika
THE founder of the Poetry Red Carpet Awards has called on poets from all corners of the country to enter the event to ensure diversity.
The second edition of the awards is set to take place in February next year.
Cynthia Mapando said artists can submit their work for nomination in various categories such as best male, best female, best spoken word and best page poet, among other categories.
“We were overwhelmed by the response we received during the last edition, although most submissions were from Harare. This time around, we want to reach out to poets in Gweru, Bulawayo, Mutare as well as other cities, towns and villages, as these awards are open to everyone.
“We believe that poetry knows no boundaries and that creativity thrives in every corner of our nation. Through this event, poets have the opportunity to connect with a wider audience, gain recognition and inspire others with their work.
“It is also a platform to unearth hidden talent and showcase upcoming poets so that the people of Zimbabwe can have an appreciation of poetry as a genre of literature and lifestyle in the arts sector,” said Cynthia.
The Poetry Red Carpet Awards aim to promote and celebrate the art of poetry in Zimbabwe, recognising the contributions of poets in the cultural and literary landscape of the country.
It also seeks to foster a culture of appreciation and celebration of the power of words.
The judging process involves a panel of experienced and renowned poets, literary critics, and scholars, who evaluate the submissions based on the criteria of originality, creativity, thematic depth, technical skill, and emotional impact.