Mr. M.E. Thusi, School Principal

Sithengile Secondary School holds three core principles dear to its heart: Video, Audio and Disco. When translated to English, these Latin words mean “to see,” “to hear” and “to know.” At Sithengile, we always aim to see, to hear and to know. We seek to guide learners to be curious, to be aware and to actively seek knowledge. The classroom is, obviously, the main place where this happens. However, what makes our school unique are the ample learning opportunities that students forge outside of class by participating in creative, arts-based, activities.

Creativity has always been a hallmark of Sithengile Secondary School. From dance, to debate, to singing, to drama, our approximately 1,200 learners have found beautiful and meaningful ways to express themselves—despite facing many challenges. This strength and this expressivity is also present when it comes to writing. Learners of all grade levels enjoy creative writing. Motivated by their own creative spirits, they toil in exercise books, creating worlds on mere pieces of paper. Even when they are not asked to write specifically for an assignment, learners take the initiative to write completely on their own. It is this initiative – this genuine thirst to create – that makes our learners exceptional.

It was this commitment to writing and excellence that birthed this book. At Sithengile, we believe in supporting creative learners. This book is a testament to our commitment. This book is a symbol of our rich talent and a culmination of the hard work our learners have done. It is also a symbol of our creativity and fierce dedication to the arts. It is my pleasure to offer these stories and poems as a concrete symbol of what we have done, and what we hope to do in the future.

So, please, read these writings and immerse yourself into words that are realistic, engaging, at times funny and at times serious. See these words. Hear these words. Learn something from these words. Most importantly. Let these words inspire words of your own.