Ekta Somera.
Image: Supplied
A 26-year-old published poet from Umkomaas is emerging as a powerful voice in South Africa’s literary landscape.
Ekta Somera, who began her journey writing in solitude, is now actively creating spaces for storytelling and collaboration.
Her recent participation at the opening of Articulate Africa 2026 at the Umkhumbane Cultural and Heritage Museum, highlights both her personal growth and the broader momentum behind Durban’s creative community.
Somera described the experience as deeply meaningful, noting that it “meant honouring my roots and representing not only my country but the little town where I grew up”.
She took part in the event as a beneficiary of the UNESCO City of Literature programme, where she showcased her children’s book Lilly the Llama Party Drama.
The initiative forms part of Durban’s ongoing efforts to support and elevate local writers, storytellers, and artists across disciplines.
“As a storyteller from Umkomaas, I use both poetry and children’s literature to share accessible, imaginative narratives. Through the UNESCO City of Literature programme, I have been fortunate to access opportunities that have extended my work beyond local spaces.”
Among those opportunities was having her poetry featured at the Women’s Rugby World Cup Poetry Scrum in Exeter, another UNESCO City of Literature city.
“It has given my words a chance to travel across the world. My poem being selected and featured at the Women’s Rugby World Cup in Exeter was an incredible opportunity.”
Somera’s work reflects both personal experience and creative imagination.
“My poetry is rooted in my own experiences, but my children's stories are inspired by those around me and the world I dream about and imagine children would enjoy growing up in."
Beyond artistic expression, she emphasised the deeper role storytelling played in society.
“Storytelling allows us to express ourselves in creative ways. It allows us to have empathy and understand lives that we have not lived. It gives us a chance to place our feet in shoes that have journeyed beyond our years and learn from that experience.”
In reflecting on Freedom Day, Somera highlighted the importance of reclaiming narrative power.
“We can now tell stories that were passed down generations and become the voices of our ancestors who were silenced,” she said.
She also underscored the importance of literary platforms and community-driven events.
“Events like these remind us of the importance of community, it encapsulates the essence of ubuntu and assures us that our unique voices matter and are much louder together.”
For emerging writers, visibility remains a challenge, but Somera believes initiatives like Articulate Africa are changing that.
“Promoting our own writing can be tough, but platforms where literature and art are celebrated make it easier for local writers to feel seen and respected.
“Everyone has a story. It doesn't matter how you tell it. What matters is that you share it and appreciate the people who take the time to listen,” she said.