Boksburg male nurse shares his poetic talent
During the day, Southern Mathibeng is employed as a male nurse but in the evenings his passion for art comes alive.
He is better known as Southern Comfort, who lives and breathes poetry.
Mathibeng, who lives at the nurses’ residence at Tambo Memorial Hospital, describes poetry as a diagnostic tool to articulate and address human conditions at the same time as expressing yourself.
Mathibeng started delving into poetry in 2010 and in 2014 his career took off when he started performing in places such as Newtown, Johannesburg and at the Siyabakhumbula Awards, cooperate events and weddings.
This well-known poet is motivated by the likes of Lebo Mashile, Mzwakhe Mbuli and other poets back in the days.
“I have always been fascinated by the good use of words and the impact they have when delivered with great verbosity, passion and honesty,” Mathibeng said.
Mathibeng did not rely only on his natural poetic talent but he went also through coaching and mentorship to enhance his talent.
The performer said what makes him unique is the ability to stand out, as he is not much of a blender.
“My presence and aura are quite noticeable. I am the one who affects the environment around me more than it affects me.”
He also won the 2015 Williams E Athols Award at Word N Sound Poetry and Literature.
He has shared the stage with his favourite local poets such as Mutle Mothibe, Maks Manaka, Afurakan, Mutinta Bhenkele, and Vuyelwa Maluleke.
Mathibeng has recently released his first book titled Poetry In Nursing, which tackles and addresses issues in the medical faculty, the current state of government, family dynamics and the every challenges of life.
Mathibeng’s road to fame has not been an easy one as he faced financial problems.
“Making a living out of art alone is not child’s play as you need to put in money to make money,” Mathibeng said.
His advice to young people is to dream big regardless of life’s challenges.
“Your gifts and talents are your commodity. No one sees things like you do. Value your perspective.”
FACT SHEET ABOUT SOUTHERN MATHIBENG
*Mathibeng is a qualified male nurse at Tambo Memorial Hospital.
*He loves dancing, working out and going out with friends.
*He is 29 years old.
*He started out in poetry in 2010.
*He is the winner of the 2015 Williams E Athols Award.
*He has released his own book, titled Poetry In Nursing.
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