Slam Poetry

Published on: 3 April 2025

On March 24, 2025, Sunward Park High School participated in its first-ever slam poetry event at Germiston High School's prestigious hall. Competing against Germiston High, Sunward's talented poets took to the stage to showcase their passion for spoken word, hoping to leave an impact beyond just winning cash prizes.


Participants and Performances

The competition featured a variety of talented poets, each delivering a unique and powerful performance:

Each participant had something powerful to say, using their words to express personal experiences, emotions, and perspectives on the world.

Memorable Moments and Highlights

One unforgettable moment of the evening came when Relebohile Khumalo, a media house member, took a dramatic fall down the stage stairs after her performance. Despite the mishap, her poem was well-received, and the incident became a humorous yet memorable part of the event. “Unforgettable it was,” some attendees remarked, while others recalled her saying, “My legs couldn’t move” after the fall.

The competition was intense, with participants feeling a mix of anxiety, nervousness, and excitement. While some joined for fun and experience, others saw it as a personal journey or a final chance to try something new before leaving Sunward Park High.

One of the biggest highlights of the day was Keratiloe Motiea, the only Sunward learner to place in the top three. She delivered an exceptional performance, using background music to enhance the mood of her poem and create a captivating atmosphere. Her creative approach earned her a well-deserved third-place win and a cash prize—though the exact amount remains unknown.

More Than Just a Competition

Despite the competitive aspect, many poets shared a common goal: expressing themselves and sharing their messages, rather than focusing on winning. Their passion for poetry and spoken word was evident, proving that slam poetry is about more than just rankings—it’s about art, voice, and storytelling.

A Special Thanks to Mx Stopford

None of this would have been possible without Mx Stopford, who saw the potential in Sunward’s talented writers and performers. They seized the opportunity to create a platform for students to express themselves through poetry, whether they won or lost. Their support and dedication to the arts helped make this event a success, and they couldn’t be prouder of the students who took the stage.

At the end of the day, the true victory was in the experience itself. Sunward’s poets left the stage with memories, confidence, and a deeper love for their craft—and hopefully, this won’t be the last time they grace the slam poetry scene.

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