Talents emerge at 2023 Quramo Festival of Words

From left, convener, Quramo Festival of Words, Mrs Gbemi Shasore; Quramo Writers’ Prize winner, Chiziteren Chijoke and the Director, Qfest 2023, Lolade Alaka at the finale.

New literary talents have emerged at the festival themed ‘Connecting the Dots’.

THE 2023 Quramo Festival of Words (QFEST) ended on a high note last Sunday at the Eko Hotel ballroom. Chiziterem Chijioke won the coveted Quramo Writers’ Prize with her manuscript, ‘Dear Zini’.

Truth Bakare’s ‘Summer Blooms’ and Mujahid Ameen Lilo’s ‘Landscape of Loss’ were second and third, respectively. Zainab Imam’s ‘The Lagos Love Story’ and Vera Sorochi David’s ‘Walking with Abba’ also made the top five, with the winner receiving the cash prize of N1 million and a publishing contract.

Explaining ‘Dear Zini’s’ emergence as the winner, the jury comprising Dr Eghosa Imasuen, Lechi Eke and Anote Ajeluorou said it “is a poignant exploration of a young woman’s journey through life’s unexpected twists and turns. The manuscript skillfully employs the first-person point of view to immerse readers in Zimife’s world, capturing the nuances of her emotional rollercoaster with authenticity. The narrative’s originality shines through its portrayal of contemporary issues in Lagos, Nigeria, including unplanned pregnancy and the following societal pressures. The story’s coherence is maintained as it delves into the complexities of relationships, family dynamics, and the search for identity.”

The judges added, “Zimife’s character is a testament to the writer’s talent for creating relatable and multidimensional protagonists. Her struggles with depression and the desire for acceptance make her a compelling and sympathetic figure. The language employed effectively conveys the depth of her emotions, drawing readers into her inner turmoil. The dramatic intensity steadily builds as Zimife navigates her challenges, and her evolving relationships with Jereme, Belema, and Ned add depth to the narrative. The writing sample masterfully captures the story’s emotional depth, particularly in the scene where Zimife confides in Belema. The evocative descriptions of the setting and Belema’s character bring the scene to life.

“In summary, ‘Dear Zini’ offers a compelling narrative that explores themes of love, friendship, and self-discovery against the backdrop of contemporary Nigerian society. The manuscript’s originality, coherence, narrative strength, language, and dramatic intensity make it a deserving contender for the Quramo Writers’ Prize.”

An elated Chijoke expressed joy for her victory, disclosing that she finally won at the third time of asking.

But she wasn’t the only star of the festival. Afolabi Olayinka-Bello (Bespoke) won the Quramo Poetry Slam festival contest with a cash prize of N100,000. He wowed the audience, including writers, journalists and poetry enthusiasts such as Jude Idada, Kenyan James Murua, festival convener Mrs Gbemi Shasore and festival director Lolade Alaka with rousing poems. The pieces that earned him the slam included ‘The Protest’, ‘Lagos Palava’, ‘Parental Guidance’, ‘Redemption Computed’ and ‘The Price for Redemption’.

Saheed Sunday took the second position and was rewarded with N50,000 for his efforts after the audience intervened.

Murua, the publisher of the literary blog Writing Africa, was excited at the exceptional performances of all the poets and admitted that Nigeria is a powerhouse of African poetry. He noted that only seven poets would have appeared in his country, adding, “Nigeria is teeming with abundant poetry talents. This is incredible.”

While closing Qfest 2023 themed ‘Connecting the Dots’, Mrs Shasore said there was the possibility of building a better society through the power of words.

“As we bid farewell to QFest 2023, let us carry the knowledge, inspiration and connections we have forged during this incredible journey. Let us continue to connect the dots, not only within our literary and cultural landscapes but also within our hearts and minds. Together, we can build a brighter future where the power of words and ideas knows no bounds. May this festival be a source of inspiration, knowledge and joy for all who have attended.”

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