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Valerie Mpundu, Arts Reporter
Former Harare Central Prison inmate Tonderai Mhandu has made it through to the semi-finals of this year’s edition of StarBrite with a powerful poem.
The semi-finals will be held next month, and being the 12th season, the show will honour yesteryear musician Matthew Kaunda, affectionately known as “Mateo”.
Contestants are expected to battle it out with renditions or spoken word of the hit song “Pamuhacha” by Mateo.
Mhandu, now residing in Nyama Village 3, Karoi, pursued his passion while in prison for the nine years he served.
In an interview, Mhandu said his time in prison made him realise and discover the talent.
“I got discovered in prison and as such I wanted my talent to be exposed. Being in prison does not mean the end, you can build yourself from within the walls,” he said.
“I used poetry to air my views because in such an environment, it is difficult and you hardly have time to discuss your troubles with other inmates as they will also be having their own problems.”
With four years and still counting in the poetry sector, Mhandu believes that most of his work is inspired by dreams and visions.
“My poetry resonates with life situations and mostly — if there is an issue I have to address — it comes to me directly in a dream. This then always gives me an urge to either warn or educate accordingly.
“When messages do not come to me in dreams, they appear in visions and I find myself drifting away writing something down which I will share.
“I started in school at a young age and did not read much into it until at a later stage,” he revealed.
Mhandu encouraged those behind bars not to look down upon themselves, but to remain hopeful and connect with their creative side.
“Whatever the circumstances, one should never give up. It might seem like an eternity but persistence and perseverance are key.
“We all deserve another chance in life. Positivity is the goal. Occupy yourself with beautiful thoughts and hope for the best. Do not let the walls be a limitation.
“When you set your mind on anything, be committed enough to see it through. Do not label yourself due to circumstances. Believe you can be a better version of yourself,” he explained.
Mhandu, who has been out for four months, hopes to turn his life around as he goes through his reform journey.
While in prison, he was touted as a presenter and an actor who entertained, encouraged and educated other inmates.
He hopes to continue on the path regardless of the competition’s outcome.
StarBrite has over the years been credited for nurturing and developing various talents, some of whom have gone on to become renowned artistes.
Online Reporter