Sannyboy (Imbongi Ejulile) Mahlangu, also known as Inkunzi Emnyama, is a 23-year-old poet, theatre practitioner, musician, writer, and mentor from Kwa-Thema (Springs). Inspired by love, society, and overlooked global issues, Sannyboy has developed a unique creative process and voice in poetry.
“What inspired me to start writing poems was love, society, and some of the things that are happening in the world that people do not speak about,” shared Sannyboy.
His work delves into themes of love and cultural practices, exploring depths that many shy away from. “When it comes to love, people do not want to dwell deep into detail when they speak about it. With cultural practices, it’s something people know about but do not reveal more. As a writer, I reveal things that are too deep.”
Sannyboy’s creative process is distinctive. “Some of my poems come from my dreams, so putting dreams and thoughts together and combining them to make sense takes time,” he explains. This method involves mind mapping, constructing, and structuring his thoughts into coherent and impactful poetry.
Through his writing, Sannyboy aims to offer readers a different perspective on life. “I know that people are going through a lot, crying and dying inside. In my writing, I want people to take healing and knowledge that everyone is suffering from something. Life is fair because it’s not fair to everyone.”
Although influenced by other poets, Sannyboy maintains a unique style. “They haven’t influenced my style, they’ve inspired me,” he notes. Among his special works, he highlights “Iyakhulum’ Imvelo,” “Kunzim’ UkubayiMbongi,” and “Umbhalo kamoya” for their ability to transport minds and offer new views.
Having performed live many times, Sannyboy acknowledges the varying experiences with different audiences. “Sometimes it’s good vibes, sometimes it’s bad vibes. It mostly depends on how the audience feels about you performing and how they hear you.”
Sannyboy is featured in a new collaborative poetry anthology sponsored by Nqoqele – Ngitshele Art Initiative, which is currently in progress. He envisions a broader reach for poetry, suggesting, “If poetry can be portrayed on television and played on radio, maybe create poetry channels, it can make a huge difference in the culture of poetry and society or maybe the world as a whole.”
Facing judgment from others is one of the challenges Sannyboy deals with as a poet. “People expect you to be perfect, forgetting that you’re also a human being. I had to find and know myself personally and as a poet, focus on my journey, craft, and be strong.”
Living and breathing poetry, Sannyboy advises aspiring poets to find themselves and stay true to their path. “I’d say find yourself, know yourself, work on yourself, don’t follow someone’s path, do what you love, and don’t be scared to make mistakes. You will grow and lastly, be available.”
Sannyboy actively engages with his audience through social media: Facebook: Sannyboy Imbongi; TikTok: Sannyboy Imbongi Ejulile; Instagram: Sannyboy Imbongi; YouTube: Sannyboy Imbongi Ejulile. Reflecting on his journey, Sannyboy concludes, “I live poetry, I dream poetry, I eat poetry, I do it every day, and the more I do it, the more I become creative, and the more I become creative, the more I become inspired to do more.”
By Sibongile Sokela