Last month, the organization of the Enugu Literary Festival had lots of creative activities. These activities included a prize for the short story, a panelist discussion of some published writers across all genres of literature, open mic, amongst others. The slam poetry contest was the highlight of the event. Miss Uduak Samuel Archibong who goes by the stage name – Youdee emerged as the winner of the first Enugu Literary Festival Slam poetry contest.
Youdee in this interview tells her journey tp Deborah Uzoma who documents campus stories, creative events, and lifestyle chronicles.
Congratulations Youdee. How do you feel being the winner of the first Enugu literary Slam contest?
I feel honoured. I met a number of poets that I respect and hold in high esteem at that event. So, to be announced the winner of the slam, which also happened to be my first poetry slam was a great honour. All I can say is that God did!
God did it for you. You sound religious. So, tell me about yourself briefly and also how you learned of the poetry slam contest.
I am a lover of God and a lover of arts. I am a nurse, thespian, spoken word artist, freelance ghostwriter, and a chef. I enjoy good music, I love reading, traveling, and experiencing new things, people, and places.
For the slam contest, my theatre manager, Mazi Ibiam Ude, who is also my coach in spoken word poetry informed me of the competition and encouraged me to participate.
Kudos to your theatre manager , one who encourages you to showcase your talent. What does slam poetry represent to you and how long have you been performing?
Slam poetry is an avenue to learn, face your fears, and grow. At least, that is what this one did for me. This was my first slam poetry. I’ve been performing for about two years I think… I’m not sure. But basically, I’ve just done spoken word poetry for fun… in church, for my circle of friends, nothing ever serious.
Interesting. Congratulations on this groundbreaking record in your first Slam poetry contest. Based on the monetary involvement, what do you intend to invest the money in?
The money will be used to pay for my midwifery license.
This is a good investment and a remarkable one at that. Are there persons whom you look up to in the world of poetry and performance art?
YES! There are a couple of people I look up to in the world of poetry. The person topping the list right now is Deborah Johnson; the present poetry slam queen of Nigeria.
Deborah, the amazing youngster is doing wonders in slam poetry. Will you continue to compete in other slam poetry events?
Well, I intend to continue to perform and compete in as many slams and other competitions as possible. Poetry for me, is more than just making rhymes or putting together words that move people… It’s an avenue to: send messages; be a voice to numerous voices that cannot be heard; change my world.
Thank you Youdee.I love the last statement, using slam poetry to change your world.
Good luck in your future endeavors.
Thank you.
