Umdala means “An elder or a living ancestor” in Isizulu.
In creativity and literary expression, change is a constant companion. Our Poet Laureate Award is evolving, embracing a new identity – The Umdala Award. This is more than just a name change, it signifies a deeper commitment to celebrating the richness of African storytelling.
The Poet Laureate, an honorary position conferred by Creatives and Community members (Tribesmen), has been a cornerstone for tvotribe. Now, as The Umdala Award, it remains a celebration of creativity echoing from the heart of Africa.
This transformation is about amplifying the voices of Africa’s storytellers, bringing to the forefront the most outspoken and impactful creatives. The Umdala Award is a dedication to ensuring that true African stories are authentically told, with a commitment to publishing African poetry and prose pieces.
The synergy between cultural awareness and creativity is central to us at TVOTRIBE. We seek to heal African storytellers, providing a platform to explore and express their roots. This award is a fusion of cultural heritage and artistic ingenuity.
As we embark on this journey, The Umdala Award invites all creatives, old and new, to join hands in celebrating the enduring passion for storytelling.