BY SIPHOSETHU MABUZA ( INTERN)
MBABANE– Simphiweyinkhosi Sibisi a young Swati creative based is using her talent in traditional craftsmanship and dance to preserve and promote siSwati culture through emagcebesha, umgaco, and kugidza.
Rooted deeply in culture, Simphiweyinkhosi says her journey began at a young age through traditional dance. “I was a dancer growing up and would only dance (kugidza) during Umhlanga and other ceremonial dances kaNgwane. It’s something I would do any day,” she said.
Her passion has since evolved into creating traditional pieces such as emagcebesha and umgaco, where she expresses her creativity and emotions. She describes her work as more than just art, but a reflection of her identity. “Doing this piece of art means a lot to me because that’s where my skill is invested. I am able to express my feelings, ideas and beauty into the real world,” she explained
Sibisi highlighted that wearing imvunulo carries deep cultural meaning and responsibility. She noted that the moment one puts on traditional attire, respect becomes central. “The very minute you vunula, everything changes. Inhlonipho becomes key since we are a nation well known for respect,” she said.
Despite her passion, she expressed concern about the declining interest in cultural practices among young people. She attributes this to modern distractions such as social media and entertainment platforms. “Young people now spend more time on their phones, watching Netflix or on TikTok instead of joining groups like ummiso, ingadla or sibhaca and going for practice, which tend to make them forget their roots as Emaswati” she mentioned
To address this, she plans to establish a cultural group that will teach kugidza, siSwati songs, and how to create imvunulo. She also aims to integrate culture into digital spaces to make it more appealing to the youth. “We will even post on social media so that even when they are on TikTok, they find culture there,” said Sibisi Beyond teaching and performing, Simphiwayinkhosi also offers rental services for traditional attire, including imihelwane and tidvwash. This initiative provides access to those who may not afford to buy or may not have enough time to prepare
Looking ahead, she hopes her efforts will leave a lasting impact by equipping young people with cultural knowledge and practical skills. “After sharing the skill, they will have something they can carry for the rest of their lives. Whether they get jobs or not, they will always have something to make a living,” she said.
Through her work, Simphiwayinkhosi continues to celebrate, preserve and modernize emaSwati culture, ensuring it remains relevant for future generations.
#Eswatini #Culture #Imvunulo #YouthEmpowerment #CreativeIndustry
(Courtesy Pic)
