N’wa-Jika The Poet: A Voice of Inspiration and Culture

Hlayisani Antonette Shiburi, known by her stage name N’wa-Jika The Poet Phyembye Ra Africa, is a multi-talented artist from Madobi Village in Limpopo. A celebrated Xitsonga poet, she uses her powerful words to inspire and uplift both young and old.

She is not just a poet but also a praise poet, author, voice-over artist, actress, MC, motivational speaker, community builder, ambassador, entrepreneur, and a qualified electrician. She founded Switirhela Ku Lulama clothing brand (est. 2022) and N’wa Jika The Poet (NPC).

Achievements and Recognition

N’wa Jika has won multiple awards, including:

1st Place – Ndebele Students Association Virtual Poetry Competition (2020/2021)

Best Poet – Collins Chabane Night of Fame Award (2021/2022)

Limpopo Music Awards Nominee (2022) – Best Poet Category

2nd Place – Poetry Live Performance in Botswana (2023)

Golden Shield Heritage Awards Runner-Up (2023) – Young Heritage Activist

Her work has been featured on SABC TV (Daily Thetha, SABC DTT NEWS) and radio stations such as Munghana Lonene FM, Capricorn FM, Ikwekwezi FM, and Energy FM. She has also been highlighted in publications like Daily Sun, Limpopo Mirror, and Listen to Africa Literature Magazine (Botswana & Kenya).

N’wa Jika has written nine books, with four recommended by the Gauteng Department of Education. She is also a translator of children’s literature.

Beyond literature, she mentors young poets and has hosted competitions like the Limpopo Poetry Slam and Limpopo Craft Competition, funded by the National Arts Council. She is dedicated to giving back, partnering with Noza Foundation and Fumani Mashava Foundation to support over 30 schools through donations.