The Africa Cup of Slam Poetry (CASP) is a Panafricanist event that brings together artistic talent across Africa and globally. The contest fosters a unification in the celebration of words and synergy amongst slam poets.
Nigerian representative, Deborah Johnson who had such a good time, speaks to Deborah Uzoma, a journalist who documents campus stories, creative events, and lifestyle chronicles.
Hello, Deborah, congratulations on emerging as the second winner (First runner-up) in the African Cup of Slam Poetry. How did you feel when the result was announced?
I felt okay, I’d slammed in English against French countries and I was glad to have been in the top 3.
Did you have a specific theme or message that you focused on during your performance in the competition?
I spoke about things that mattered to all Africans.I spoke about our relationships with each other as Africans
Please, can you briefly give us a rundown of your slam poetry performance and what it means to you?
It was special because I felt like I was starting something for Nigerians in the sense that none of us had traveled to represent Nigeria at a poetry slam like the CASP or the WPSO and now someone can start training from now because they want to.
That is interesting. As an award winner in Slam poetry, are there persons whom you look up to in the world of poetry and performance?
Yes, too many to mention
What’s your take on slam poetry having a significant impact in shaping your community and the wider world?
I think to an extent it gives people hope, pushes them out of their comfort zones even and it is such a good tool for advocacy.
Deborah, it has been a very nice time interacting with you. It feels so good to
know that you are my namesake.Kindly, drop a piece of advice for aspiring slam poets and performers.
Just be honest, with yourself and your art and your God.
Good luck in your future endeavors.
Thank you
