Tawona Sithole
Telephone:
0141 548 4958Mobile:
07759897115Email:
seeds_ofthought@yahoo.co.ukWebsite:
www.seedsofthought.webs.comBRAW network:
noLL funded:
yesBiography:
I grew up with the oral tradition of spoken word and music, that celebrates the morals and lifestyle of my ancestral family, Moyo Chirandu - as a son of this family I am better known as Ganyamatope. From Zimbabwe, living in Glasgow, sharing my heritage with others keeps me grounded, and helps increase awareness of lesser-known perspectives of my experience as an African. Using these influences, I have developed a contemporary style of expression, through mbira (traditional Zimbabwean music instrument), spoken word and creative writing and drama. I often use humour to challenge stereotypes and misinformation. I draw on my challenging experiences (such as racism) faced with living in a different culture from my own. Trying to link cultures together, I see creative expression as a celebration, and building of positive self-esteem.
About writer's work:
I am a poet, playwright and musician, and enjoy the challenge of new creative experiences. I started writing and performing my work, publishing my first collection of poetry in 2006. I have since had my work published by others in the UK and abroad. As my creative journey continues, I have gained many new experiences including workshop facilitation, education, theatre, commissions, radio appearances, writer in residence, event organising, and studio recording. I have delivered workshops in schools, community groups, to people of different ages and range of ability.
In 2009 I was fortunate to take part in the Scottish Book Trust mentoring scheme. The experience remains an inspiration to how I approach my work.
My workshops put the participants in the driving seat, and are always fun - often including mbira music, song, chants, dance and movement, to facilitate the creative process of writing.
About writer's events and projects:
I am co-founder of Seeds of Thought none-funded arts group. We work promoting creative writing and performance, and often collaborate with other writers/artists. We try to make poetry and spoken word entertaining to those who wouldn’t normally take interest, through our free performance events. I facilitate 4 creative writing workshops a month; organise and perform at our monthly performance event at CCA Glasgow; organise and take part in a yearly art exhibition (Art of Poetry) at St Mungo Museum; and contribute ideas other groups and individuals.
In 2007 I participated in ‘Voices from Africa’ a project run by Glasgow Museums. Since then I have continued as a creative partner, involved in many ongoing projects from planning to delivery
Language:
EnglishAge groups:
5-8, 9-12, Teens, Adults