Until Then - By Siphosethu Thobela

Written By: Siphosethu Thobela

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Siphosethu Thobela presents a poignant piece titled "Until Then" in the Poetry category of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This competition, hosted by Hashtag Kalakar, is a platform that celebrates the diverse voices and creative expressions of writers from around the world. Thobela's work delves into the critical theme of gender-based violence and societal accountability, resonating deeply with contemporary issues.

About the Work

"Until Then" is an evocative exploration of the pervasive issues surrounding gender-based violence and the societal norms that perpetuate it. Through stark imagery and a compelling narrative, Thobela challenges the reader to confront uncomfortable truths and reflect on personal accountability. The poem's tone is both mournful and defiant, capturing the struggle and resilience of those affected, as well as a hopeful determination for change.

Until Then

Original Submission by Siphosethu Thobela

Until it's someone's sister, daughter, mother, friend or neighbour,

we're just another body.

Another statistic.

Another tragedy.

"Not all men" they said.

Where are the few?

The some?

And alike?

Maybe we should stop looking at the some, the few and alike.

We thank you for your effort, clearly this is not your fight.

We will not point fingers, burden you with the responsibility

of holding your fellow men accountable.

Simply put, surely you've done all you could to the best of your ability.

"Women hate men"

I can't imagine why.

Even though it couldn't be a bigger lie.

We don't hate men.

We hate the way it's always men behind the soulless body.

We hate the way we need pepper spray, a taser and a whistle and still get violated.

We hate the way we're objectified, vilified and demonised.

Until then,

We refuse to blame God for decisions made by His children.

Not when He gave all of us free will.

We accept this new reality and we refuse to stay in it.

Not when we have the power to change it.

We lament over the many lost souls.

"It could be me, next" - a thought a young girl should never have.

Not without being teary eyed,

not without heavy sighs, not without defeated words.

We say "Wathint'abafazi wathint'imbokodo"

What other choice do we have?

Until the wheels fall off, we'll keep on keeping on.

For our children and their children's children,

hoping and praying and fighting that

one day this will be a distant memory.

An excruciating season that went on for too long.

Front page headline:

‘The worst side of history’

‘The vilest side of mankind’

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious event that showcases the talents of writers from various genres. It offers a platform for creative voices to be heard and appreciated on a global stage. This competition encourages the exploration of diverse themes and the expression of unique perspectives, enriching the literary landscape with fresh and impactful works.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Siphosethu Thobela for sharing the powerful poem "Until Then" with us. This work, featured in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, highlights important societal issues and inspires reflection and action. We appreciate Thobela's contribution to this vital conversation and look forward to witnessing the impact of such meaningful creative expression.

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.