Online Reporter
Mthabisi Tshuma, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
Veteran author, poet, and cultural activist Albert Nyathi has been recognised for his outstanding contributions to placing culture at the forefront of society through his unifying and inspiring works.
Nyathi was recently honoured by Being African, an organisation dedicated to promoting and preserving Africa’s diverse cultural heritage, as part of their prestigious “100 African Icon Series”.
Being African is a not-for-profit organisation that focuses on preserving and teaching African traditions, languages, and values to people of African descent, as well as to the wider global community.
President of Being African, Gladys Jakachira, said the awards aim to ensure African societies continue to uphold their traditions in a unified and impactful manner.
“Our mandate is to connect Africans worldwide by sharing, embracing, preserving, and celebrating diverse African cultures. Through educational content, we strive to showcase the beauty and richness of African traditions and languages for present and future generations.
“The icon’s initiative, in essence, is about marketing and uplifting these figures so they can receive more collaborative opportunities. We want the world to understand that Africa is not a single story or stereotype. These 100 icons represent the many facets of who we are,” Jakachira said.
For over five years, Being African has been developing inclusive and educational digital platforms dedicated to preserving and sharing Africa’s extensive cultural heritage. Their work revolves around cultural education, language preservation, building strong communities, and providing coaching that transforms cultural insights into life-changing actions.
Nyathi is among the first recipients of the 100 African Icon Series, which will continue throughout the year.
Expressing his gratitude, Nyathi said being recognised on such a scale was both humbling and inspiring.
“I’m so humbled by this gesture – being chosen among millions of brilliant African people. I do not take this honour lightly. Yes, I have won awards and been honoured before, but this recognition is beyond my imagination. Thank you so much to the Executive of the BeingAfrican Global Community.
“I will live to cherish this honour. The pressure is now on me to prove that you were right in choosing me as part of this honourable group of 100 African Icons. I promise to continue delivering and making Africa proud, making you proud. Thank you once again,” said Nyathi.
Known for his iconic poem “Senzeni Na?”, Nyathi continues to carry the African cultural flag high. He is set to perform at the Inkaba Cultural Festival in London on August 3 and in Birmingham on August 9.
Nyathi, who is overseas, vowed to bring his A-game to the stage as he continues inspiring audiences with his craft. – Follow on X: @mthabisi_mthire
