Tibiki ‘TeeBK’ Mokonyane is a Provincial Poet representing Limpopo. She is recognized for her unique style and thought-provoking work. Her work is known for it’s beauty, it’s emotion, and it’s ability to make readers and listeners think and feel. Her poems have been called ‘hauntingly beautiful’ and ‘stirringly emotional,’ and she’s been praised for her skillful use of language and imagery. But it’s not just her words that make her stand out – it’s her unique perspective and her ability to make readers see the world in a new light.

15-year-old TeeBK was born and raised in Mashashane Segoahleng outside Polokwane. She often use vivid descriptions and metaphors to create a sense of wonder and magic. Her poems are full of evocative phrases and striking images, which transport the reader to another world. The poet’s style has been described as lyrical and dreamlike.

TeeBK says she fell deeply in love with poetry at age of 9, doing her grade 4 in 2017. She was greatly inspired by the 2012 South Africa’s Got Talent Winner Bohlale Boikanyo who is also an actress. “I realized my ability to write and recite poems when I first felt the joy and satisfaction that comes from creating something beautiful with words. I found that poetry is a powerful way to express myself, and it’s something that I truly enjoy.

The poet shared that their work was also influenced by Mzwakhe The Poet and Mr Matalane. These writers’ influence is evident in the poet’s early works. For example, Mzwakhe The Poet’s influence can be seen in Tibiki’s first collection, which she wrote when she was only 11 years old. In this collection, she explored similar themes and used similar imagery to Mzwakhe The Poet. This shows how influential this writer is in shaping TeeBK’s style and subject matter.

The award-winning poet tells the Reddot that in all her poems, tittled Gender Based Violence remains one of her best work. She says the poem aims to raise awareness and to empower survivors. In her own words, she said: “I want to teach people that it is never the victim’s fault, and that there is hope and healing. I also want to encourage people to speak out, end GBV, and work towards a world where everyone is safe and respected”. This poem is a contribution towards this goal and has scored her 1 of 2 of her awards.

Tibiki is a young energetic,responsible, reliable and trustworthy person. Hence she has been elected as the President of the LRC 2024 at her school, Boetse Secondary in Moletjie Mabokelele. She says been the LRC President is both rewarding and challenging. “It’s rewarding because I get to make a difference in my school and help other learners discover their love for writting and reading. It is challenging because it requires a lot of hard work and dedication. But overall, it’s an incredibly fulfilling experience”. As she continued, she said it was inspiring and humbling. “There’s nothing as heartwarming as seeing the joy on a student’s face when they discover the power of words”. She said.

“My wish is to continue writing and sharing my work with others, use my poetry to inspire and uplift young people, make a positive impact in my community. I want to grow, explore and experiment new forms and styles. Ultimately, I just want to keep doing what I love. I’m excited for what this journey has in store for me. TeeBK is the Award-winning Talent Search Auditions Poet 2023 and Mashashane’s Got Talent 2nd Position that was held at Mashfun Park in 2021, and has been interviewed at Moletjie FM the previous year.

The bubbly Poet says she’s proud of the impact her poems have on others. “I’ve had people telling me that my poetry has helped them through difficult times, and inspired them to pursue their own creative passions. It’s incredibly rewarding to know that my words have made a difference in someone’s life. I’m greatful for the recognition I receive for my work, including awards and publications. But ultimately, it’s the impact on others that makes my heart skip a beat”. She nodded.

Mokonyane says her Mother has been her biggest supporter and my greatest inspiration. She has encouraged her to follow her passion and has been there since day 1. “She has taught me so much about life, and I am forever greatful. To Her, my family, friends, teachers and followers”.

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