Panashe...

What inspires you to write?

My inspiration comes from my life challenges. A lot happens in life and sometimes there is happiness and sometimes there are sad moments. Documenting matters concerning people and their lives within my small community is something I enjoy doing.

Do you think there is a difference between a writer and an author?

There is no real difference between the two, because both express their ideas and thoughts through writing. However, if a writer`s work is not published they remain a writer, but if their work is published, they become an author.

How does it make you feel to be part of a published anthology?

It’s a dream come true. I have been writing short stories since I was young, and it is my passion. The two stories I wrote for this anthology are my first to be published and the process groomed me to become a better writer. 

Do you face any challenges as a female Zimbabwean writer?

Challenges are always there, but one has to gather enough courage to conquer. Many writers don’t have the opportunity to publish their work because of financial constraints.

Briefly describe your writing journey, from how you started to where you are today.

I was in grade seven when I found myself writing a Cinderella-inspired story which I gave to my friends to read, and they were very impressed. That is how is I realised my talent and started short story writing whenever I got the chance. “Cyclone Idai” is my best story so far.

Would you like to share anything about yourself to help your readers connect with you?

I am a young talented woman who is thirsty for success. Currently I am still studying and looking forward to a great future ahead through hard work and perseverance.

What are your future writing aspirations?

I look forward to writing more stories based on the day to day lives of people in my community. Chimanimani is a small marginalised area in Zimbabwe, and my wish is to write more stories about my small community until it becomes popular and recognised globally.


What is your biggest dream?

Becoming the best author in my own unique way of writing. Writing is an inborn talent and I wish to grow and improve it every day. 

***

TURQUOISE DREAMS Editor's note...

Cyclone Idai is a great narrative on the events leading up to the tragic Cyclone Idai. Set in the village of Ngangu in Chimanimani, the mindsets of people who were worried and the ones who seemed unbothered before the cyclone hit are well presented. The aftermath was truly horrific, and the narrator competently painted that picture in this story. 

Coronavirus gives a perspective on the impact of the Coronavirus in a marginalised society already suffering the aftermath of Cyclone Idai. People are struggling financially or losing their job due to the lockdowns. The narrator explores the paradoxical situation from which local residents cannot escape. Either keeping people ‘safe’ by imposing lockdowns in the country, but people cannot earn a living to pay for their day-to-day survival; or keeping everything open, and potentially ‘risk’ more people getting sick. The story is a candid reflection of the very strange experience of living through consecutive natural disasters.
Share by: