Faith Ndlovu, Sunday Life Reporter
A 21-year-old literary enthusiast, expressionist and author based in Bulawayo — Bradley Nsukuzokuduma Moyo has been selected for an award for his outstanding literary achievements at the coming Second Annual Book Awards.
The awards ceremony which will be held in Gweru in the first week of December will celebrate exceptional literary work under the theme “Literary Odyssey, Celebrating Ink-spiration.”
Moyo first received career nominations this year at the third edition of the Poetry Red Carpet Awards held in Harare, where he was recognised for his book titled Thalitha Koumi: The Prayers We Never Say.
“Talitha Koumi is an Aramaic phrase which means daughter or little girl arise; it is inspired by the biblical story of Jesus raising the daughter of Jairus,” Moyo explained.
Thalitha Koumi
He elaborated on the inspiration behind penning the book, “The Prayers We Never Say is inspired by a series of conversations that I have heard over the past four years. The Bible also urges us to come boldly unto the throne of grace, and with that in mind, we should have open intimate conversations with our maker — a heavenly encounter.”
He said the title of his book represents a breakthrough from societal norms.
“Talitha Koumi: The Prayers We Never Say is more about breaking through the limitations of societal expectations, religious restrictions and literary rules in order to break through barriers so as to achieve whatever one desires. As you read through the book, you will realise it is more about ‘Why not’ and ‘How’,” Moyo added.
Moyo believes in the transformative power of words, striving to create a platform for expression where every story is valuable.
“So I try as much as possible to tell my story and address issues that are close to my heart such as spirituality, mental health, cultural identity, social ills and reflections on life experiences. I believe in group therapy and collectivism,” he added.
He hopes that readers will find his book as a critical first step in dealing with personal challenges.
“From my book, I hope readers find themselves first because that is the first step in dealing with anything — self-consciousness — and also find their voice. At the end of the day, I believe readers are at liberty to pick whatever resonates with them,” said Moyo.