So am I & Letter to self - By Takalani Nematswerani

Written By: Takalani Nematswerani

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Takalani Nematswerani graces the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 with their poignant work, "So am I & Letter to self." In the poetry category, Nematswerani delves into themes of societal disparity and personal encouragement. This compelling submission echoes the collective human experience and offers a touching narrative that resonates with readers from all walks of life.

About the Work

"So am I & Letter to self" masterfully captures the essence of human struggle and resilience. The first poem addresses societal neglect and the shared humanity often overlooked by those in power. The second piece shifts to a tone of personal motivation, emphasizing the importance of perseverance. Through vivid imagery and heartfelt language, Nematswerani invites readers to reflect on empathy and self-belief.

So am I & Letter to self

Original Submission by Takalani Nematswerani

So am I - Star

Mr Politician, I’m perplexed

My life is literally nothing like I dreamt

What’s worse is that

It’s everything

I feared…

Mr president, there is no roof over my head

I only eat once a day, every month (thats if im fortunate) The water I drink is barely transparent

I have no blankets to keep me warm at night

No family to reassure me

No place to call home

No love,

just judgement.

Mr president, I stand on the streets with a demeaning board Crying:

“Help, with job, with food, God bless you”

The rich watch and shrug and quickly close their windows Then look away

as though I were sickening trash

When im, when im

Clearly

Not.

But when I look at them -

We’re more alike than they'd like to think

We both breathe the same oxygen

We both want to love and be loved

We both, ironically,

Have white bones and red blood.

Mr president,

We are all human.

My blood is no less red than theirs.

I know you're

In your comfortable home and probably busy

And my complaint may seem irrelevant

But listen, please

you get so much more respect than me

So much more love,

Dignity

Consideration

Inclusion

Warmth

Everything I could ever dream of All because you are human…

But, Mr president, I

don’t get any of the above

And yet the laws you passed claim that I'm human too.

Letter to self - Star

Try

Even if you don’t get it all done And even if you don’t get it all right

Trying is what matters.

Each and every single day,

Look forward to trying, my dear Because only then

After choosing progress over perfection Each time

Will you truly ever reach success.

I know you can.

I know you will.

So,

Try!

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar celebrates diverse voices from around the world. This prestigious event seeks to provide a platform for both emerging and established writers to share their unique stories and ideas. Participants explore a wide range of themes, showcasing their creativity and literary prowess.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Takalani Nematswerani for their inspiring contribution, "So am I & Letter to self," to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Your evocative words and insightful reflections enrich the tapestry of contemporary poetry and creativity.

About Hashtag Kalakar

Hashtag Kalakar is a creative platform dedicated to providing artists, writers, singers and other creative talents with opportunities to showcase their work and reach wider audiences through competitions, features and creative initiatives.