Authors, poets and performers will converge at West End Primary School in Mitchell’s Plain for the fifth annual Cape Flats Book Festival, taking place from 31 January to 1 February. Hosted by literacy non-profit Read to Rise, the free festival celebrates reading, writing and storytelling across generations.
Speaking to VOC News, Read to Rise programme director Roscoe Williams said the festival continues to grow in reach and impact.
“This festival is definitely on the map. In our fifth year, it keeps improving, and awareness around the festival is growing. It’s something people really look forward to,” he said.
He added that more than 100 authors are expected to participate over the course of the weekend.
Williams also highlighted the diversity of attendees. “That’s what’s so amazing, people from all over are coming to this festival. People who have never been to Mitchell’s Plain are now visiting because of the festival. It’s very rewarding to see people of all nationalities and races coming together and enjoying the event,” he said.
The Cape Flats Book Festival aims to change perceptions of the area by centring local stories, ideas and creativity, while promoting literacy and a love for reading in under-resourced communities.
Listen to the full interview below:
VOC News
Photo: Pixabay
