IE Africa Center, the South African Embassy and Lebogang Mashile

IE Africa Center in collaboration with the embassy of South Africa in Madrid presented South African actress, activist and writer Lebogang Mashile at IE University Madrid Campus, where she performed 10 poems about feminism, identity, memory and body image.

Mashile, a NOMA award-winning writer for A Ribbon of Rhythm, was invited by the IE Written Expression Club and IE Public Speaking Club to perform a poetry recital.

She spoke to students about the importance of inclusivity and diversity in our society, as well as the concept of multiple identities.

“Identity is the story of so many South Africans, we belong to multiple cultural groups at the same time, we grew up in one place and called home another,” said Mashile.

“Being South African is moving across the world, struggling with a sense of belonging and having your identity shaken.”

South African Ambassador Thenjiwe Mtintso, explained the event was the beginning of an ongoing collaboration between the IE Africa Center and the South African Embassy, honoring the celebration of South African Heritage Month.

“This event is an appreciation of the South African heritage and diversity. South Africa is a beautiful country and we should celebrate it by coming together and sharing our culture,” Mtintso said. “We share the same values, generosity, hospitality, love, solidarity, support and respect.”

Gaurang Rishi, President of  IE Public Speaking Club and IE Written Expression Club said Mashile’s poetry links with IE’s core values of humanities and diversity.

“The event was in celebration of the power of expression, poetry, and humanities,” said Rishi.

IE Africa Center consultant Eniola Harrison said the intellectual and physical contributions of Africa are crucial to contemplate for a better future.

“The goal of the IE Africa Center is to revolutionize the way in which the next generation of global executives understands African innovation,” said Harrison.