The 10th African Women Writers’ Symposium (AWWS) takes place on 20 October and 26 October in Soweto and Newtown (Johannesburg). This two-day programme includes workshops, talks, debates, and discussions on literature, aimed at inspiring hope in these troubled times.

Sunday, 20 October 2024 – Soweto Theatre

The event will be livestreamed.

The symposium kicks off with the Nadine Gordimer In Memoriam Lecture presented by Professor Carolyn Cooper from Jamaica. Her address, titled "All My Weapons Within Me: Literature and Popular Culture as Sites of Female Empowerment in Jamaica," explores the impact of Caribbean culture on the global stage. Prof Cooper, a celebrated author and cultural commentator, writes for the Jamaica Gleaner and shares insights on her blog here.

The lecture will be facilitated by Cathy Mohlahlana, followed by a Q&A session. The event will be held both in-person and online.

Preceding the lecture, Nokwanda Ngombane will launch her debut book, "Who Do You Think You Are?" In conversation with Nomboniso Gasa, Ngombane shares her personal journey following the political assassination of her husband and her experiences with South Africa's criminal justice system. The evening will close with poetry and musical performances.

Saturday, 26 October 2024 – Market Photo Workshop, Newtown

All talks from 12 midday will be livestreamed.

The day will feature literary panel discussions, masterclasses on poetry and publishing, and much more. Notable highlights include a talk led by acclaimed New York hip hop poet Toni Blackman, alongside Eavesdrop from Cape Town and Gigi Lamayne, discussing the role of women in urban contemporary music, including hip hop and amapiano.

A key panel titled "Narrating Palestine" will explore media disinformation. Phathiswa Magopeni (former head of SABC News), Qaanitah Hunter (award-winning journalist), and Youmna ElSayed (Egyptian-Palestinian journalist) will share their perspectives, facilitated by Hassen Lorgat.

Livestreaming Platforms:

• Afroarts.co.za
• Discovr.tv
• Sowetotheatre.com
• African Women Writers Network Facebook

All events are free and open to the public, but RSVP is essential for in-person attendance via this link or by email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

For media interviews or more information, contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call 011 788 7632 / 083 954 6133.

Issued by: JT Communication Solutions on behalf of African Women Writers’ Symposium and Afro Arts SA

Total Words: 438