Unathi Nkayi performs for Cuban president at the 'Havana Book Fair'

South African multi-talented artist Unathi Nkayi has expressed her gratitude and excitement after she had the honour of performing for Cuban president Miguel Diaz-Canel at the prestigious Havana Book Fair.

This event marked a significant moment in Unathi Nkayi’s journey as she was part of the first official South African delegation for literature, invited to participate in the book fair.

The celebrated author, singer and radio host expressed her gratitude and excitement on social media, stating, “I had the honour of performing for the president of Cuba on the day of our arrival as the guests of honour for the HAVANA BOOK FAIR here in Cuba.”

Nkayi is one of 15 South African authors who will be part of the delegation which will spend two weeks in Cuba facilitating workshops. The event serves as a platform for the participating authors to engage with local audiences and share their experiences in literature and storytelling.

This opportunity holds even greater significance for Nkayi, who emphasized the pride she felt representing South Africa and its cultural evolution.

Sports, Arts and Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie, his deputy Peace Mabe, were part of the delegation.

“We are here with @artsculturesa representing our minister @gaytonmck and deputy minister @official_dm_peacemabe by invitation of Madam Ambassador to celebrate our 30 years of democracy and to speak of the evolution of storytelling in the last three decades,” Nkayi wrote.

Her presence at the event is a powerful reminder of South Africa's cultural impact globally, as the delegation celebrates the nation's progress and accomplishments over the past 30 years of democracy. Nkayi’s involvement is not just as a guest but as an active contributor to the world of storytelling and literature.

Nkayi also shared a lighthearted moment about her attire, noting how attendees recognized her for her appearance in a striking outfit by South African designer Asanda Madyibi, a piece she has cherished since 2019. "

”When they said they saw me at TWEE DUISEND did they mean Cuba coz WOAW,” she laughed, adding a heartfelt thank you to the designer, “ENKOSI tshomam, this one has always been one of my favourites.”

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