Nhlakanipho Thabethe, well known as Steel The Poet, is a bilingual isiZulu and English poet, music producer, and graphic designer from Stanger, KwaZulu-Natal. His work is deeply rooted in the discovery of self, exploring identity, existence, and the complexities of the human experience. Much of his writing is in isiZulu and is layered with riddles, metaphor, mystery, and wonder. He sees the world as one great riddle to be cracked, using poetry as a way of questioning, exploring, and discovering himself. Steel has performed on various prominent platforms, including Poetry on the Lawn, Poet in a Suit, Poetry Africa, Sundowners, the Durban Poetry Show, and many more. His work and performance style are characterised by intensity, mystery, and a commanding stage presence. He refers to himself as “The Storm”, a name inspired by the force and energy he brings to the stage. In KwaZulu-Natal, he is also known as “Umpetha” (The Champion), reflecting his competitive spirit and achievements within the poetry scene. Steel is an alumnus of Durban University of Technology, where he obtained a Diploma in Information Technology in Application Development. Beyond his artistic practice, he has developed experience in project management, festival coordination, and curation through his work at the Centre for Creative Arts (CCA) at the University of KwaZulu-Natal. Through his work with CCA, Steel has gained hands-on experience in the coordination and delivery of major international festivals, including Time of the Writer, the Durban International Film Festival, JOMBA! Contemporary Dance Experience, and Poetry Africa. His practice exists at the intersection of poetry, music, design, technology, and arts administration, with self-discovery remaining at the heart of his creative expression.
