Kadder books national finals spot with poetry slam victory

GWANDA-based creative Kadder continues to demonstrate her versatility as an artiste after emerging victorious at the recent Das Deck Zeigt Poetry Slam hosted by the Zimbabwe German Society and Goethe-Zentrum Harare.

Known for her work as a singer, actress and spoken word performer, Kadder’s first-place finish has earned her a place at the National Poetry Slam Finals scheduled for November.

What makes the achievement even more remarkable is that Kadder entered the event without realising it was a competition.
“What’s interesting is that I entered the event without realising that it was a competitive poetry slam. I was simply excited about the opportunity to perform my work and connect with other artistes,” she said.

During the competition, she performed two original spoken word pieces, Nobuciko and Etch That Name.
“Nobuciko explores identity, healing and belonging, while Etch That Name reflects on resilience, purpose and the realities of pursuing an artistic calling despite challenges,” said Kadder.

The victory came at a pivotal moment in her personal and professional journey. A day before the competition, she had received disappointing news that Scripted Legacy, an initiative she is developing, had failed to progress from the Top 100 to the Top 20 of the VCC6 startup competition.

“The day before the competition, I had received news that Scripted Legacy had not progressed from the Top 100 to the Top 20 of the VCC6 startup competition. Of course, I had hoped to advance, but I chose to focus on what I had gained from the experience,” she said.

Despite the setback, Kadder said the competition had equipped her with valuable skills.
“Through VCC6, I learnt how to pitch under pressure, communicate more effectively with investors and think more strategically about building a sustainable organisation.”

She added that significant progress had also been made behind the scenes.
“At the same time, I had successfully assembled a board of seven credible trustees and was close to finalising the registration of Scripted Legacy. So although I did not progress to the next VCC6 stage, I felt that I was still moving forward,” she said.

One of the most emotional moments of the evening came when she heard herself being announced as “Queen Kadder”.
“For many people, that may simply sound like a stage name. For me, it carries a much deeper meaning. Queen Kadder is not a title, but a testimony. It represents a personal healing journey, a journey of reclaiming my voice, embracing my identity and learning to walk confidently in my purpose.
“It is a reminder that my story matters, that my voice matters and that I should not remain silent about the things I have lived through and learned from.”

Beyond the trophy and recognition, Kadder said the experience reaffirmed the power of authentic storytelling.
“Winning the slam was special, but what touched me most was the affirmation that authentic stories have power. The pieces I performed were rooted in real experiences and seeing them resonate with an audience reminded me why I started writing in the first place,” she said.

As someone passionate about storytelling, youth empowerment and community development, Kadder views the achievement as part of a broader mission.

“It’s not just about a trophy or a title. It’s about using art to heal, connect, inspire and create impact. I’m grateful for the opportunity, grateful to the organisers for creating a platform for artistes and excited to represent my work at the Das Deck Zeigt Poetry Slam Finals in November.”

She described the latest milestone as another chapter in what she calls #HerArtStory.
“For me, this is not the end of a story. It is another chapter in #HerArtStory,” she said.

Explaining the concept behind the movement, Kadder said #HerArtStory goes beyond a hashtag.
“When I say #HerArtStory, I’m not only talking about women. I’m talking about the stories that shape us, break us, heal us and ultimately help us become who we are meant to be. I believe that when we share our stories honestly, we give others permission to embrace their own.”