We are who we are... - By Yanga Ziwele

Written By: Yanga Ziwele

Category: Creative non-Fiction

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In the evocative piece "We are who we are..." by Yanga Ziwele, submitted to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, readers are invited into an introspective journey through the complexities of identity and human nature. As a participant in the Creative Writing category, Ziwele offers a raw and honest narrative that delves into the nuanced emotions experienced in life's quieter moments.

About the Work

Yanga Ziwele's "We are who we are..." is a contemplative exploration of self-awareness and human imperfection. With a strong narrative voice, the piece examines themes of vulnerability, introspection, and the often uncomfortable truths about personal identity and relationships. The writing is rich with emotion, capturing the haunting complexity of introspective thought, and invites readers to reflect on their own experiences and the multifaceted nature of humanity.

We are who we are...

Original Submission by Yanga Ziwele

We are who we are…

By Yanga Ziwele

It is 5:26 am on a cold, rainy Thursday morning. I am standing outside in pyjama bottoms and a white t-shirt, a cigarette in one hand. Hungover, or maybe still intoxicated. All at once, doubt, denial, despair, and feelings in between I cannot quite explain have seized control of my entire being.

1. It dawns on me that the greatest stories ever written are based on reality, or some interpretation of it. And that, although we may always want to associate ourselves with the heroes, we do possess many of the ugly traits which make us dislike, or passionately hate the villains. Sometimes parts of us are as rotten and as vile as the worst people we know. Human nature? I really could not tell you. Like Frank Ocean said, we all try...

2. I realise that I have, on so many occasions, given people so much of myself. Again, and again, and again; desperate for some kind of reciprocation. But it was to people that did not deserve me. And, though my ego hardly ever allows me to admit it, sometimes it was to people that did not even want me to begin with.

3. Some of my kin only love the version of me they can brag about during lunch with church folk on Sundays. I do not know who, between us all, gave life to that version of me. Or who still fights to keep him alive. Sometimes I am drunk, and angry and crudely honest; but that is someone whose truths they still will not acknowledge or accept. I still love them.

4. What is misdirected anger? If I have suppressed my anger towards you for so long, and then someone suddenly pushes me to breaking point, and I decide to take it all out on you, have I misdirected my anger?

5. Missing her is a lot like depression

It wears many faces

Comes and goes in phases

Sometimes it is excessive drinking

Sometimes, obsessive overthinking

This time...

7. We are who we are, wethu. Take us, leave us.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, hosted by Hashtag Kalakar, celebrates diverse voices and creative expression from around the world. This prestigious event encourages participants to explore themes and narratives that resonate on a personal and universal level, fostering a vibrant community of writers and poets.

We extend our gratitude to Yanga Ziwele for sharing "We are who we are..." with us for the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Your contribution enriches the dialogue on the human experience and personal identity. Thank you for being a part of this creative journey.

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.