U-MELENI: MY DIARY

so i have been feeling rather...how should i say...pensive of late. We run around sometimes trying to do everything and once in a while our bodies tell us that we need to relax and just breathe. So today, this is your commercial break, your excuse, your pause for a cause from me. Stop. Take time to notice those around you who are there for you. Tell them you love them. Say the things you feel in you heart, Write that song. Invite that person over for dinner. Quit that job if its driving you insane. GO ahead say " I DO" trust that someone can love you like that .Love yourself, nurture yourself and feed yourself with things that nourish your body and mind. Appreciate all the experiences that have gotten you this far and LIVE. Live like this could be the last day...so make it fun, make it real! Nothing like a fainting episode to make you think of your mortality!!!

Hugsxoxoxo

So for some reason I have been having serious car issues, and not only me but friends too. Whats up with that? At times I think I should break down and buy a newer model, but I love my MOKAH blue ( yes I named my car its a honda civic)....but seriously am in no mood to drop more loot!!! Now that I got that off my chest. Other parts of my life are going well. I am surrounded by wonderful friends who cook me dinner, listen to me play the guitar and continue to inspire and encourage me to follow the rainmbow. So good to hear from my brother Omekongo. Let me tell me you if you haven't seen this man perform you are missing something truly amazing!! Visit www.omekongo.com

Was in Philly last week-end visiting my friend Pep and i have to tell y'all I fell in love with the city. So don't be surprised if you see me on your doorstep if you live there. Cannot wait for end of October for the Women's conference. Its in collaboration with the Pan African Studies at Temple and in the company of poets.
www.itcopandfriends.com
You are welcome to join me. sign up spots going fast.only $ 40!!!

Well I am gonna keep my head up like Tupac said and hope this week-end is much kinder to me in NY!

One love
U-Meleni

WOW!! Can i tell you that i had a great time last nite with my friend Rachel. Girl, you gotta get out there and let them hear your lovely voice more! Danced quite a bit, met some really interesting people, reunited with old friends, former students( now adults!!!) Am i really that old that my former students are now grown!!LOL!!
The vibe was real cool, music was pretty tight,and the best part there weren't any violations! ( u know how much I hate folks just grabbin on me & stuff. Its inappropriate!

Enjoyed listening to USUAL SUSPECTZ...cannot wait to make music with you guys soon...Chris, Corey, Drew...them boys can play!!!..Can i just say that FUJI WATER is the bomb!!!

Hope you all have a great week-end and if you are travelling like me...be safe. And if you can't be good, be careful!!

One love
U-Meleni

Hello people,

Am doing well.Today the weather in Boston is cool and I am smiling.

So literally right off my trip from home I began rehearsing with some talented dancers: Mila, Emily, Liz and Devon for this Performance at the re-opening ceremony at Insitute of Contemporary Art. We had our audition last Saturday afternoon at 5:15pm at the Green Street Studios in Cambridge. The judge was the talented and creative Robert Battle from www.battleworksdance.com. And I was nervous but were outstanding.

It went well and yesterday found out we are in the SHOW yeah! Its going to be November 17 & 18th, 2006. There were 8 slots and about 15 dance companies vying for a chance...so its a great accomplishment. And yes...I am dancing as well as providing the poetic & vocal soundtrack of the piece.!!!

Details on the show
http://www.worldmusic.org/concerts_event_indiv.php?p_seq=569
So thanks for the good luck calls etc....

Am going to be opening my online store soon...so be on the lookout on the site for more info...

And if you want me to come to your community, school, or university...holla at me...


P/S Big Up to Rachel..was cool hanging w/ you in JP and thanks for the support always! Dillard...was nice catching up..see you next week....!!!

And hey tomorrow is Thursday..so if you are in Boston come down to Whiskey Park. Heard it's off the chain!!

Much love
U-Meleni

Hello people,

Today is yet another day to breathe, to dance, to write a poem, sing a song, call a friend etc...I want to take this time to really thank my parents Mrs Helen Murapa and Dr Rukudzo Murapa for all they have done and continue to do for me. I couldn't have come home and done all that I did without you. You hav taught me to be who I am , stand firm for what I believe, be a good person, work hard and remember to pray. Thank you for your guidance. And mum I am so glad that people say I look like you! You are my best friend. Dad_ you inspire with your dedication to the minds of the future, your commitment to Africa. Love you both & I promise not to let too much time pass before I see u again. And thanks to my extended family as well as those past, friends, The Rugayo's , Zamchiya, Tselentis, Mutunhu's, Mtetwa, Ncube's, Sithole's ,Moyana's for being there. And lastly but importantly to Kudzi aka Tek neek my brother who I adore more than he knows. He inspires me w/ his gifts. Thanks for letting me into your world. And to my people all over the world...I am because you Are. We did this together!!!!

Thank you.

Hugs
U-Meleni

Hello people,

Another confirmation from the Most High that I am doing the right thing, following my path. My work & CD is going to be used at a university in South Africa. I am honored that it would be used thus and appreciate once again the support of my work. I cannot wait to hear how the class goes. The lecture is about Black African Poetry. Rock on Ms Maluleke! Much respect.

Hello people!.

Yes its official your truly is back in town. What an amazing experience going home and the LOVE & support was inspiring. My past week in Zimbabwe was busy what with trying to see family ( got to take pics of my niece named for me!!) and hung out with my brother Kudzai and his boys at this spot called " Gullivers" not really my scene but was nice to chill & watch my little bro do his thang!!! Of course spent much time w/ my mum. We talked, shared recipes, nyaya's, and basically had a riot!!! She was my Road Manager and was serious about that role! Thanks mum for watching out for me , driving me places, making sure i was hydrated and happy. Dad-didn't get to see much since he was travelling but when was home got a chance to do an in house performance since he missed the BOOK CAFE gig.

Sunday Aug 27, 2006 went to visit Auntie Judy and Uncle Tendai & friends at their home. Was so nice to catch up and thank you so much for the great food,candle-light( we get power outages often in ZIM) and love/conversation. It was an honor to perform for you and I appreciate all the kind words. I cannot wait to get all the pics we took. If u wanna see how talented Zimbabweans are, visit the National Gallery of Zimbabwe ( Mutare Branch) My Aunt is the Regional Director!! ( Check out info on my links page)

Wed Aug 30, 2006 had the pleasure of spending the day at Africa University in Mutare. My brother goes there. Talked to various staff and Professors in Eduaction, Music, Library and I just want to thank them all for their time. Most especially Prof. Quarshie, Prof. Kigozi for letting me sit in while the Africa University Choir was rehearsing & thanks to the students for giving me the stage to perform for them , Ms Gweshe for coordinating my meetings on campus, Ms Pfukani was a pleasure to see you again. Had a great time speaking to students from many different african countries after all it is a Pan African insitution.

Thursday Aug 31, 2006 went to Harare to record w/ Filbert. He is such a talented producer/musician that played with me at Book Cafe. Check out his CD " Kariba Brean" which is jazz, smooth shona & english lyrics. Fantastic! We recorded at this cool spot in Greencroft and hung out with some cretaive folks like Wonder the sound man... much thanks! We created some smooth grooves that should be on both our albums coming soon to a store near you! Might put up what we started with so far for your listening pleasure...its still a work in progress...
Rest of the week was spent bonding w/ my brother and sister Pei and Bongai ( close fam friends). Went out to the Mannerberg JAzz Culb and heard this group " Jazz Invitation" that knocked my socks off! We Zimbabweans have got it going on....cop their CD! And I was lucky to meet and chat w/ Sam Mataure one of the best drummers in Zim. The man can play them drums!!!!

While I was home too had time to check out the Health facilities and talk to some doctors. SInce I am also a health educator wanted some insight into the system at home and where we are in terms of HIV education etc. I went to the New Start Center by the American Red Cross and took an HIV test. Its very important to do that, y'all; Know your status! There were folks all ages getting tested, no fear, no discomfort, knowledgeable staff. Counselling was provided and there was a video playing starring Oliver Mtukudzi ( one of my all time fav artists) taking a HIV test and using his gift of song to educate.

Arrived back in US on Sunday and am involved in a project with some dancers that will perform Sept 16th. Keep u posted.

Hope to see you all soon.....

So mum and I arrived at the Daisy Dube Children's Home around 10 am on Thursday. It was a 2 hr drive from Mutare, a road lined with the most amazing Baobab trees ( did i tell you that its one of my most fav!!!) Anyone who knows me can attest to the fact that I am a tree-hugger!! Anyway the drive was scenic, with the occassional cows, goats and donkeys crossing the road and slowing us down on our marathon visit.

Anyway we arrived and was greeted by the staff at the Mt Selinda Hospital and escorted to meet the Orphanage Director Mr Jabulani Maposa. He was a very dignified and caring man who took some time to chat with us and tell us about the history of the Home and so forth. Many details I can get to later , but the great part was that the wonderful and caring woman who the Orphanage was named for was the midwife for my grandmother and brought into the world some of my mother's siblings!!

The Home can serve 60 children but currently has 45. We toured the facilties and I can tell you that when I held this baby boy in my arms of 5mths called Nyasha I wanted to cry and take him home. His mother had passed away and his father not having the resources to care for him brought him to the Home through the Social Welfare Office.The children are in loving hands, the staff of 7 caregivers including Mr Maposa who the kids lovingly refer to as " Baba" meaning "father in Shona work tirelessly year round with little resources. One huge problem is that the phones in the whole town do not work, not the hospital, stores, schools, orphanage. We had tried calling before we left Mutare so we could have bought what they need before we came down. We asked the telephone company what was up, they said that there is no money for spare parts that have to be bought overseas, and that the phones have been out of commission since last year! Thats awful. And whats worse is that some cellphones do not get reception coz of the altitude of the town! ( i could go on about this...its ridiculous)

The kids have no toys to speak of but have swings and a jungle gym of sorts. They have fun and are creative at play.They all have beds that have one blanket, the babies have cots and there is a huge closet in each of the 3 large rooms they share stuffed w/ clothes sent by donations by various international/local organizations. The Home is part of the United Church of Christ.They have a library of books that are donated but need more as with most things. The premises are clean and most of all the kids are loved and is evident that they are safe. After taking the tour and learning of their needs top priority being foodstuffs like sugar, mealie meal, bread, butter, salt, rice etc..my mum and I hung out with the kids and played with them then left with a promise to return after visiting my late grandmothers house that was an hour away. We had planned to go shopping getting them what they need but it would be a surprise!

We came back to the Home at around 1:30pm after stopping by at the Local Supermarket packing the car with food, soap, oil, candies, chips, rice, peanut butter, candles, matches ( lights go out all the time) etc....when we arrived and unloaded with the help of staff....the feeling in my heart was to hard to explain. I was so happy that we ( yes we did this all who came to the show in Harare) and I thank you for bringing joy to these wonderful children. The ages of the kids 6mths to 18 years. We only saw the younger kids as the older ones where working in the Home Garden.( the older kids are taking agriculture class and so grow veges to practice and use for the home)

The kids were smiling and eager to open the chips, and the staff over joyed. We took pictures that I will add to my gallery so you can see some of the faces you have touched. I plan to continue to send materials to the Home as I have adopted them as my own. I hope that you will all join me in this endeavour as I will be sending invitations to support and partcipate in various events over the next year to help them.

I will write later or maybe when I return Sept 3rd on my visit to my mothers home.

See you soon

* U-Meleni

THursday Aug 17th was a great day. Mum and I drove to Harare from Mutare ( 3hrs 30mins) and I was off to meet with a talented musician Filbert Marowa ( keys) who was to play w/ me at my show with The Guests ( a comedy duo ). I had a blast with them and enjoyed rehearsing and getting to know them before the show. I also had a pleasure of meeting Ms Shirley Sanyegore, my friend Pep's sister who was most gracious to me. As the Project Coordinator she made sure things ran smoothly as did Mr Victor Mavedzenge and I really appreciated and loved working with them.

The evening was amazing. Had a great crowd, dim lights and mature audience attentive and listening to my every word. It was nice to have family and friends in the audience, my cousin Gerry was the camera man since Kudzi my brother wasn't there. At the end of my performance my Cd (autographed ) was auctioned and some nice gentleman paid 20 million Zim dollars for it!!!!

I made 54 MILLION ZIMBABWE dollars from the performance and am going to be using the money to buy food for an orphanage in Chipinge ( where my mum grew up ). We ( mum and I ) are driving there on Thursday, and I intend to visit the school my late grandmother built years ago. I am so excited to be able to do something with thr money I made at the shows. This is what I want to be doing ten times over,raising more money in collaboration with others for kids and causes that matter. We must take care of our children!

Check out new press reviews..i have been written about in various newspapers The Daily Mirror Aug 16, 2006 ( Zimbabwe) and talkzimbabwe.com. I was interviewed by Itayi who was very nice and I hope to see if I can make it to perform in the UK.

What else? Naturally I had seen Zim first hand and its not what media portrays. There has been much confusion with the currency conversion and it has been rather annoying carrying bags of cash with me, but Zim is home. Its where I was formed into the woman I am. Harare is clean, and there are a lot of new buildings I have not seen. There are people working and there are people unemployed, there are folks sick and those thriving. there are those that are creating businesses and there are those that are dissatisfied. There are problems in healthcare and with fuel and electrcity ( there are power outages often for hours at a time). But there is no place that is free of these things in some ways. Africa is not the only place where there is strife.
People that I have met are going about their lives trying to do the best they can as we all do.

What saddens me though is that there are so many farms on the drive to Harare that are void of crops. What will people eat?

And people are walking more and morel No petrol for cars/ buses or hard to get but folks still gotta go to work somehow. Not many tourists and that means many crafts are not being bought.....
Anyway I gotta run....not enough time to write all that is happening. So busy trying to see family before I head back next week-end. Will write more in depth later. Till then take advantage of the resources you have every day.

Oh guess what?? I was able to connect and speak to one of my fav female musicians/singers in Zim , Chiwoniso Maraire this afternoon. What a gift. Thanks to Farai for the introduction.

One love
U-Meleni

We ( meaning Omekongo and I) visited 7 schools in Soweto and in the outskirts, and shared our work as well as local artists: Aviwe, Kgabelo, Slimco, Makata, Tiro and the students shared w/us. There was Bona School, Thuto Ke Maatla, Mteropolitan College, Tsolo School..and others

We talked about American hip hop and its influence on them. They loved 50 cent, Jarule etc..we talked about promoting positive messages, we talked about self love, respect between the sexes, community and celebrating their greatness.

Most schools sadly were very poor..no books, broken windows., , hardly any chalk, no computers, but some had sound systems, microphones etc.....however the students were all intelligent, eager, open and very talented, very socially & politically aware & vocal. I was so proud of them & they reflected that back to me. The ages of the youth ranged from 5 -21. What they lacked in materials they made up of in passion for education and creativity. I fell in love with the children of South Africa.!!!


All schools had uniforms but could tell that some where wearing hand me downs. Inspite of the poverty, the fact that most lived in Shantytowns as they told us, they have incredible drive to learn. One school we visited Evaton Primary School had won several awards for their incredible drama and theatre pieces which we have on tape. The staff was amazing! So many teachers dedicated to the youth but with a lack of resources.Still the respect they had for their students was evident. What i realized and saw are that there are simlar issues that some of my students face in America,. in Boston in the inner city. I performed some poetry on domestic violence, child abuse/rape etc...and sadly many girls shared with me afterwards that they had been raped. They ranged from 12-16. We hugged and cried together and they thanked me for speaking their pain & giving them a strong role model of a woman who can rise and speak. They shared how proud they were of me. Can you believe that? I cried and told them how they were my sheroes! I plan to go back and work with girls in SA schools.

Rape should not be the norm for anyone! we have to stop this insanity!

I took lots of footage & pics. My friend Omekongo & I are going to be making a DVD about the trip.

I was interviewed on the radio YFM 99. 2 (www.yfm.co.za) by DJ Thabe alongside Aviwe, a talented sista from the Sounds of Edutainment non profit we were working with. I was asked why I do what i do? What its like being a african woman in America etc...afterwards...I was the
Guest Performer for one of the National Womans Day celebrations at the only black bookstore in SA, Xarra Bookstore where they are now selling my CD!!!! Check out the store on my favourite links page.(www.xarrabooks.com) Much thanks to Kays Mguni, Director of the store who was most gracious to me!!

ALso raised 3,800R and at the fundraiser we did Sat August 12th at the Horror Cafe known for being a place where Artist perform. The SA Brewery are threatening to buy it and build more offices but the Artists are fighting to keep it. Omekongo and I were recieved well and I really appreciated the chance I got to know him better as a person and as an Artist. We made an excellent team and I look foward to many more joint ventures!

Local people say that there is a lot of crime & theft in SA , they warned us not to adverstise our cells or cameras too much. Soweto I felt safe and ate there ,.we went to a modernized shabin in Newtonn, near Market Theatre were all established superstar artists & newbies are....It has interesting decor, black and white photos of ella fitzgerald and miles davis, a bass and a piano with the backdrop of Kwaito music and laughther wafting in the air. I will say that the food took about 3 hrs to come and was rather mediocre but the company was great. I will not give the name of the spot but definitely wouldn't be running back!

We stayed in a nice Bed and Breakfast in Meliville. Kind folks. reasonable prices. Definitely a place I would return to: The SUNBURY GUEST HOUSE.

Mum and Kudzi ( my brother also known as TEK NEEK) saw me perform and loved it!!!! They arrived on Tuesday August 8, 2006.

AM now in Zimbabwe in mutare where my famly lives. As I am typing these words, I hear the birds chirping outside, the running of the pool water and feel a gentle breeze. ITs so good to be home!
Mum and I did yoga by the Acacia tree with the dogs respectfully observing with wonder in the distance.Afterwards went to visit the 7 puppies that Cheetah had....Later I found out I was in the Sunday Mail ( august 13, 2006) arts section where the reporter lied about talking to me and said a lot of things he did not hear directly from me.

u can see the article on

www.sundaymail.co.zw and click on the Entertainment Section. Article title: Theate Queen touches base.

I have never considered myself as such! Nor did I go 2 several African countries on this trip!!!!And my performance is on Thursday.

Anyway i guess I have to have a thick skin coz this is what the industry does.

I cannot wait to show you all I have learned.

I also went to Wits University and visited the Education Dept there. Looking into a PHD program there so I can teach/do work there. I spoke to Salim Vally, Director of the Education Rights Project that is doing great work in SA. I appreciate him for all the help and advice in SA. Also much thanks to Ms Carole Ann Spreen, Omekongo/s professor who made sure that we had transportation around and also to David Jenkins, Zweli, Prince Shapiro, Aviwe and Slimco( Anti-Privatization Forum)

I will be uploading some photos soon..so keep checking...thanks for the support!


Miss you guys.....

xoxoxoo
U-Meleni

SO i am sitting at a cafe in Melville called " SPiRO's" and have paid for an hour of interniet time to update you all on whats been going donw. This trip has been weonderful so far...visiting schools has been tremendous. So far we have seen about 150 students ages ranging from 5 to 21. We have been to Thembisa, at a school called " Thuto Ke Maatla which means " knowledge is power". There we ( Omekongo andI ) performed along side local Artists like Tiro, Farai, Makata whose flow and content moved me...After we shared our work , we invited youth to share. Share they did! From celebrating womanhood, to talk about poverty, to rap, to dance, to song these young people are a force! Their schools lacking the niceties of US schools still manage to produce intelligent , driven youth which is no surprise to me. Rise Africa Rise! I wish the youth I teach could see how much they take for granted even in the Public Schools. I will be putting pictures soon so you can see the students....

I was very emotional yesterday. I performed one of my poems on domestic violence" LOVE IS NOT SUPPOSED TO HURT' and others which struck a nerve in the girls minds. After the workshop when we had given out our CD's as prizes to the youth that shared their work, a young girl aged 14 came up to me. She revealed to me that she had been raped by her Uncle. We hugged and cried together and she thanked me for being there. Other girls came too and we all embraced and cried together and i tell you all that experience has forever changed my life. I hope to remain connected to that school and in particular to that one young girl who confided in me. I am comforted that she was able to release her pain and that she has teachers at her school that she loves. I thank God for this opportunity to meet other artists, meet youth and grow. I know with no equivocation that this is my true calling in life. and I am humbled by the power of my words that come out of me by God's grace.

I also met one of my favorite Zimbabwe artists husband Farai. What a coincidence! What a gift!! her name is Chiwoniso Maraire...you gotta check her music out. She is bad!!! Look on links page for that! I am most likely going to get a chance to meet her in Zim August 17th at my show! Isn't life interesting! Farai seems to be a really positive creative brother part of the Uhuru Movement in Zim, poetry thats deep. It has beenn a pleasure chatting with him. And then there's the guys Prince Shapiro and Zwele who are part of Sounds of Edutaiment. And also Slimco from Anti-Privatization Forum. Also the Education Rights Project ( Salim Vally -Director) and Carole Ann ( Prof at University of Maryland. Wonderful crew of people involved in this Tour. I appreciate the chance to work with them all.

I am being interviewed on YFM radio which is pretty hot ( liek hot 97.7) for Women's day. I am going with Aviwe, another local female powerhouse Artist and later on in the afternoon I am blessed to be performing at Xarra Bookstore ( revolution african/ black literature/writings). I am excited and nervous. This is part of the Johannesburg city wide concerts and there will be tons of people. So I gotta run....but wow!!! this is such a great time. Miss you all....and can't wait to see you guys in Sept to show you the DVD and photo gallery......

and the best part is that my mum and brother are here too....my bro Tek NEEK is going to be my videographer & we are planning to work on some hots tracks soon.....so watch out for fresh tracks on my site.....

Keep smiling....
xxooooo

it was a great day! Omekongo & I along with several local kick ass artists visited 2 schools, one high, one middle. Went well. The kids shared poems & dance that were amazing. The weather is cold, the people warm. Will send pic soons.

SO i got the scoop from my friend Omekongo who i am doing this Empowerment Tour with in SA ( Joberg) as well as some other wonderful people from The Heart of Africa. Its a non profit agency based in DC that does among many things provide HIV medicines and educational scholarships for youth in Africa.

August 6-13th, 2006 we will be in Joberg visiting 6 schools and doing 3 performances. Omekongo and I will be partnering with South African Artists such as Kgafela, Common Man and Napo Masheane. The school visits are designed to show students how they can use art as a tool for social change. We will also be raising funds for the SOUNDS OF EDUTAINMENT ARTIST NGO as well as the historic HORROR CAFE. We will also celebrate Woman's Day with a performance on August 9th at the historic Xarra Books.
* My brother Kudzai aka. Tek Neek will be taking some footage of the tour and will also be performing with me. in Zimbabwe August 17th at the Book Cafe. There will also be universities tour and multi-media projects. I will be working on my second Album....u asked for it!!! There will be MORE SINGING on this one,and my debuut guitar as well.....
Hope to see you in SA and Zim..so if you family there....let them know.....

One love
xxoxo

So last nite was a lot of fun. Met with some of my friends and family at Bob's for a last hurrah since I will away for a while. We had a great table right near the stage where we were blessed with the music from MIG and Darryl Beaton from Australia. They played soulful music, duet with guitar & keys with additions from Berklee Students on Drums and Bass. It was awesome. Will upload pictures tonight.!! MIG's album on Universal Records drop soon..I know I am gonna buy it. Have added them to my links..friendly talented men!!! We ( my cousin Tenjiwe and i ) had the pleasure of creating something organic with Darryl and it felt good. We sang in Shona and spoke about love, passion and simplicity. Isn't that what we all want?

The best part of the night, other than having my sister Lauren hanging with my crew, was the dedicated song sun for me by my friend Rachel. It was so beautiful. Thanks much for that! I truly am blesed to have wonderful folks around me who believe in my abilities. So big ups to Duane and Candace for coming thru esp. since it was way pat your bedtime!! Ndeu and Coliwe, troopers coming there after a long day at work..what would the world be like without you architects!! And Anthony, everyone needs a hype man..and the fact that you are Jamaican makes it even better( u know how much I love Jamaica & reggae!!). And Tenjiwe.....what an amazing singer & poet emerging ...I enjoy watching you evolve..... Much thanks to Justin for Down2EarthMedia for being so gracious and charming all the time. I look forward to working with you when return.
Got home almost at 1am, exhausted but with a heart invigorated. I think I am going to write some serious ass poetry this week-end!

Keep shinin'
xoox

I have to say that being a teacher for several years has taught me many things. When I started out in Public Health particularly as it relates to the wellness of youth, I was nervous. I was unsure of whether the youth here in America would listen to me, especially being from Zimbabwe and having had a different educational and cultural experience. But what I have learnt is that accent, looks, dress,locs, none of that matters as much as the authenticity of heart. I had to be myself, sometimes wacky, sometimes serious, sometimes Arsty, always truly wanting to know how they feel and what they need. And ultimately this has paid of. How do I know? Quite simply from the evaluations that they write for me every year. ( yes teachers should ask students to evalute how else will you improve?). I know from the youth that stop me in the grocery stores or at the Mall and tell me that they are handling anger better, that they are going to college, that they remember the class when i said " such and such".Most appreciate that I listen to what they had to say. I believe that the most effective tools to prevent youth from feeling disenfranchised is to listen and provide meaningful real world learning experiences. I am amazed at the students that have crossed my path. What formidable spirits! Some are blessed to have families that uplift them., but sadly others live in homes that are less than ideal, loveless, full of anger and danger, yet somehow they continue to grow and shine. And they go to college, and beyond. They learn inspite of the constant barrage of low expectations from family, society, and the dumbing down of subject matter by some teachers too tired to teach, or..something else...racist attitudes...perhaps???.....

Still these youth rise. and I applaud them, my students, past and present who have made me a better person, a better teacher, a better Artist. You work, your poetry, your raps, your plays, our conversations have inspired me so.

Yes indeed you are the future and though oftentimes we adults complain about your lack of respect ..etc
The majority of youth I know are POSITIVELY AMAZING!!!

so i woke up this morning to the chaos that is my room, suitcases everywhere. I plan to finish packing today..yeah right!! and my hair. I have to do my hair. I can see now the appeal of laying back & letting someone else do it. But I don't have the luxurious bank account yet to justify spending $75 on something I know I can do REALLY well myself! And besides that I have issues with folks touching my hair..those of you who know me , know that "engery" is very important to me. Keeping balance and peace around me, my house, my space. The idea of someone's dirty paws in my hair....their vibes......NAh... SO i am my own stylist thank you very much. I am GREAT at it.

I visited my friend Thato last nite. It was joy to see her and her baby Sifa. Makes me wonder how I will be as a mother. Am sure I will kiss and hug my child with an obsession like none has seen. I am very affectionate with those I love. I am sure I will a fun mother, strict and creative like own , fiercely protective as I am of my loved ones, but defiinitely present and doting, in awe of the grace of God to create someone so beautiful!

I am listening to Lady SMith Black Mambazo " Wenyukela-raise your spirit higher" and I must say I am feeling HIGHER. I realise that there is much I have yet to know about who I am. My zulu heritage ( father's side).My father Sondlo loves this kind of music. I continue to grow and learn.
Hold on to your roots, beautiful ones.

SO last night i went to watch a great film " Aristide and the endless revolution" at the Roxbury Film Festival. It was about the events surrouding the coup to remove Aristide. The film left me feeling angry at a system that continues to oppress people who look like me,preventing us from economic, political and social succcess. Its hard to stand up with someones foot on yor neck! There were different points of view of course from the US government! Nuff said u know what I am saying. The thing is you can't stop the spirits of people who know their worth and who love their countries. Africa shall rise! If you get a chance you should check it out.

As i continue to get ready for my trip, pack, search for the seemingly endless list of things my brother wants me to get him. I smile knowing that this time next week I will be in South Africa! I cannot wait to leave behind this world for a while. Sometimes this can become monotonous, and you can loose focus on what really matters. And what really matters is Family, and truly following your passion. Who you are. Its hard sometimes but its the only way to be happy. I know for sure that if I were brave enough I would be happier doing my Art full time . And thus have been spending much more time trying to make that a reality. What blasphemy it is to take for granted a gift,a talent that God gave and not let it shine, and not develop it to the highest. I am speaking it out loud so that the atmosphere can hear my hope, my dreams. I hope you are all following your dreams or working towards such.
I am going home ready to be cleansed in the arms of family, lifted by my people, and awakened by the realities of a life that sometimes you loose sight of this often fabricated television dream......

So I am getting really excited to be going home to Zimbabwe and seeing my family. I have missed so many things: cousins being born, weddings, lost family members- R. I. P. Uncle Victor, ...going home to pay my respects and get some much needed recharging of my soul batteries. I had to buy a huge suitcase to fill all the stuff I need to bring.....I am also looking to going to SA.... the last time I was there was when I was in high school at the then International School Of Bophuthatswana in 1993. Times have changed and are changing. I remember being enraged as a teen with Apartheid and what was happening around us. We were rebels.. organized sit ins on the Rugby Fields to teach those in power at school a lesson. They refused for us to speak our mother tongue in the presence of someone who only spoke English in a country that was ours......i could go on..but I don't have enough time right now. All i know is it will be interesting to be there now.

Some say " you can take the African out of Africa, but you can't take Africa out of the African" Sure 'nough thats true. NO matter where I go or what I do, I am proud of my heritage Ndau and Ndebele....a remix!!

Africa unite!

SO the universe confirmed at the time when I needed it most that I am indeed going in the right direction. I am bursting with joy. I had submitted my work to join this awesome organization of Singer/Songwriters INDIEGRRL.COM, 2 weeks ago. They are 1500 members strong! Well anyway i got an email 2 days ago saying that I was now an official " Performing Member"....yeah! Now i join a wonderul group and will be on the look out to have some gigs with other indiegrrls in MA and beyond. So watch out for me in the Fall. I might be coming to a town near you!!! So thanks Vicki once again for making my day. ( CEO of Indiegrrl) Check them out on my links page.
So life right now Artistically is going great. As I am moving towards going to SA and Zim...new developments are popping up. On the other side of things, am trying to be in a place where I can truly live my passion, live my dream in hard. I enjoy my job but sadly the reality is that it is not enough to feed my soul, and certainly is not enough to sustain me. SO i try and make ends meet like we all do. And I search for more ways to fund the many ideas I have. And more importantly I pray for God to support me if I am in the right path, and to show me the signs if I am not. And I thank God for what I have thus far. I am so grateful for my life, for my health, for my love , for my family and for wonderful friends that continue to help make me a better woman. And I try and not let troubles get me down. So hope you do the same.

So today I am working from home. A water break resulted in us not being able to go to the office. I am busy researching and being productive at home in my pajamas for a while. At noon am attending a picnic at Franklin Park, a bonding time for us at work. Nice treat. Thankfully its not too hot today . Yesterday was 96 degrees. I couldn't sleep last nite. Now I know shouldn't take a 1 hour nap at 7pm!!!

Guess what? I am going to be one of the performers at the Opening Ceremony of the 1st Annual from the Womb to Womanhood conference.Yeah! And I might even get to do a workshop i developed called " SPIRIT CIRCLES" that incorporates poetry, movement, song, music and drama. I am soooo excited.

For more details check out
http://www.itcopandfriends.com/ sign up..its in the city of Brotherly love in October. Join me, ladies for some fun & bonding!

Have a great day. Oh and maybe later on will go on the mic at Bob's and do a little something..and meet some friends I haven'yt seen in a minute...show time at 10pm....see you there..!!

Last nite i had the honor of taking part in a birthday celebration for my boss. It was such a pleasure to be in church. I haven't been to church in a long time though I am in constant dialogue with the Most High in my own space.There was a sense of peace & serenity and a presence so warm. There was dance, theatre, the choir, rap....awesome. I was fortunate to be accompanied by my honey dressed in back & gold looking like the royalty he is. As an Artist commissioned to write the poem which I titled " Spirit song", i was concerned that after all the interviews I had done with folks who knew Ms Holt, that the poem wouldn't be a true reflection of who she was. How wrong I was! Based on Ms Holts response, the moisture in her eyes and her smile I had done a great job! So I continue to give thanks to God for giving me ways to develop & share my Gift. If you came , I hope you enjoyed yourself . If not, if you are in the Boston area..visit
Roxbury Presbyterian Church 328 Warren St . The Pastor : Hurmon Hamilton who is one of my most favorite people to hear preach. He invites you in , the whole church does and you feel like like you are home. NO doubt I will be stopping by again soon. Have a restful sunday..xoxoxo

hello beautiful people,
last night i took myself on an " Artist date" to the wonderful event that Shanita organized. I had a great time meeting new people some new to Boston, listening to some new poets and seeing old friends. Was nice to see Randy and his lovely wife, Askia our beloved elder in the community and a host of other good folks. I was so pleased to also see some of my former students, which as a teacher bring a smile to my soul when they are in college or post -college doing great things. Truly that has been the reason why i remain a teacher.

Having the event at the AMMARP gallery was wonderful as its amidst artwork that is produced by folks of color. We have got to support our own businesses, artists etc.

BIg thanks to Nadia for letting me poet especially since i was not on the program. Thanks Afro-blue for your kind words. It was a pleasure to hear your work!

So if anyone wants to meet new and interesting black professionals who are doing some very productive things, building a sense of community.

Join the Boston Black Professional Meetup Group
htpp://blackbiz.meetup.com/18/

i'm out
U-Meleni

Hello people,
Its been ages since i wrote. I have been busy living, learning, loving, growing and working on this site. I am counting down the days. I will be in SA (joberg) soon to work in the schools with some friends , one of which is Omekongo. We are going be showing how the arts can be vehicles of change. We will also be performing with youth and local Artists to raise money for a South African non-profit. Check out www.omekongo.com great site. I am also excited because I will be working with my baby brother Kudzai aka TEK NEK who is an upcoming producer & rapper in Zim. He is gonna soup up some of my songs that are going to be in my upcoming Sophomore CD that I have been working on. What else is up? going to also be collecting family stories which will be made into a multimedia project upon my return.

I also plan to visit my old schools. That will be a riot if my teachers are still there.And for some that said I would amount to nothing..who's laughing now!!

Thanks for voting for me on American Idolundergound.com.

enjoy the heat, go to the beach, fall in love, play music outside..be happy..just be....


peace
U

Hey everyone,

Just wanted to let you know that my song/poem" Love is not supposed to hurt" has been getting good air play online.
check it out on:
http://www.idolunderground.com/Pages/Charts/ChartDetail.aspx?GenreID=12
Also blessings Zimbabwe on yet another independence 26yrs...we are gonna make it better, I believe.

Hey everybody....

so last night i went out with my friend T and we hung out at Wally's You gotta know that this spot known for amazing jazz was the VERY 1st spot I ever read my poetry. So its very dear to me & a place I have sung my own brand of african jazzoetry.....so i tried out this song I wrote last week called " Human Rights"....and it warmly recieved. So next time I will bring my guitar...by the way the conga player was AAAAMAZING....i am def going to be doing musically things with him.....check out Wallys on a Thursday nite sometime...till next time...