At our recent Black History Month Event, young poet Zara Dieobi captivated our guests, reminding us all of the importance of owning our own stories. Listen to and read the full below.
“I write to you a plea, a demand, a voice from the margins
A heart of flame, no longer silenced, no longer confined,
my story, my truth, a journey redefined.
From the womb of history, I was born
a Black woman destined to adorn the world with my strength,
my spirit so bold, a tale untold, a narrative to unfold.
I reclaim my narrative.
No longer will I be defined by the stories others tell.
I am the author of my own tale,
weaving it with the threads of resilience, strength, and hope.
I've walked these paths. I've cried these tears.
My journey marked by triumph and fears.
Yet through it all, my spirit has soared,
a testament to courage, forever restored.
I reclaim my narrative.
No longer will I be a victim of histories injustices.
I am a survivor, a victor, a woman who refuses to be silenced.
Chains of history, forged in pain, my legacy marred
A bitter stain
But I rise a phoenix from the ashes, to shatter the silence
to break the lashes.
I reclaim my narrative.
No longer will I be confined to the stereotypes and expectations placed upon me.
I am a complex individual with a unique story to tell.
Exclusion, prejudice, a constant sting,
A battle fought, a weary thing.
Still, I persevere with a heart ablaze
for a future where justice and equality amaze
I reclaim my narrative.
No longer will I be denied my rightful place in this world.
I am a woman of worth, capable of great things
I dream of a world where colours don't divide,
where empathy reigns, where hearts confide,
a future where justice is blind and fair.
Where equality's promise echoes everywhere.
I reclaim my narrative.
No longer will I be a mere footnote in history.
I am a protagonist shaping my own destiny.
Though the road ahead may be long and steep,
I'll climb with courage, with hope that I keep
For a brighter tomorrow, a future so sweet,
where Black women's voices can finally compete.
I reclaim my narrative.
My story is mine to tell.
My journey is mine to walk.
I am a Black woman, strong, resilient, and unapologetically me.” – Zara Dieobi, Poet, Actress