We are called Imbokodo

We are called imbokodo. Imbokodo means  rock, or a protective shield. We are as strong as rock. We are a group called Girls Club based in South Africa. We formed this club at school because as girls we need to unite. We advocate for gender equality and safe education for all children. We use art as a way to fight for this. As participants at Feminist Network for Gender Transformative Education in October 2024, we had the freedom to contribute how we wished. In addition to participating in all sessions, we wished to express ourselves through our performance through our songs, poetry and dance, because that is when we are our most powerful. As we were in our home country of South Africa, we wanted everyone to have a glimpse of our culture and our activism. 

Our youth led solidarity dance 

When we dance, we feel free. We feel confident. We feel powerful. We wanted to end our creative performance with a dance. We created this dance with our fellow girl activists from Rozaria Memorial Trust who are from Zimbabwe. Both of our groups participated in a 7 week Feminist School before this gathering.  Although we are from two different countries, and have different experiences, we were connected through our shared interest for gender equality and education. And our shared love of dance. 

This dance was created in the spirit of collaboration and emphasized the power that lies in the interpersonal connection of people who are united through their efforts to move together towards a common cause. This dance routine is how we as young people connect with each other- in person or on social media. This dance routine was us challenging ourselves and others to take up space, one move at a time - together.

The history of our poetry 

In the Xhosa culture, poetry holds a significant place and is highly regarded as a means of artistic expression, communication, and storytelling. Poetry in the Xhosa language is called "Umbongo" or "Izibongo". This is a creative and oral form of poetry that has been passed down through generations, preserving the rich history and cultural traditions of the Xhosa people.

The words and themes of the poetry reflect the Xhosa worldview. It emphasizes community, respect for elders, and the interconnectedness of all beings.

Xhosa poetry is also a form of resistance and empowerment. During times of political oppression and social change, poets have used their verses to express dissent, call for justice, and inspire social movements. 

What is the meaning of our song & our praise poem? 

We created this song and praise poem based on our lived experiences and those of our sisters in South Africa and around the world. We are survivors. We are also fighters. We heal through art. 

Our song 

Mantombanzana 

[Girls Girls]

We ntomb'enhle 

[beautiful girls]

Ukhalelani, ulilelani 

[why do you cry? Why do you weep?]

We ntomb'enhle 

[beautiful girls]

Mantombanzana 

[Girls Girls]

We ntomb'enhle 

[beautiful girls]

Ukhalelani, ulilelani 

[why do you cry? Why do you weep?]

We ntomb'enhle 

[beautiful girls]

English Translation of our poem:

Every morning we get raped

Every evening we get killed

Death is everywhere

Screams, cries, and pain are experienced by us.

Be strong and hold your own young women!

Because, remember- you are a hero, a fighter and an activist!

With you there; there are no pains nor sorrow.

Harmony and peace is your name!

With you there; there is no retreat nor surrender!

Pack a bag and go home because with you there everything is possible.

We are called Imbokodo. And we will continue to use our art as a way to create change and feel powerful.