Emerging writer and storyteller Ekta Somera participated in Articulate Africa 2026
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Emerging writer and storyteller Ekta Somera was among the featured participants at the opening of Articulate Africa 2026, held at the Umkhumbane Cultural and Heritage Museum.
The Articulate Africa programme was launched this week and is the City’s initiative to showcase and celebrate local talent in the fields of literature, art, craft, design, film, sport, media and music.
It aims to unlock the economic and creative potential of residents, while promoting the City’s diverse literary heritage.
Somera took part in the programme as a beneficiary of the UNESCO City of Literature initiative, where she exhibited her debut children’s book, Lilly the Llama Party Drama.
Originally launched in December, the book introduces readers to Lilly, a lively pink llama with a flair for imaginative storytelling. From humorous misadventures involving chickens to dancing on a party bus, the character’s exaggerated tales aim to entertain while promoting creativity and self-expression.
Somera also illustrated all the characters featured in the book.
"I've always used poetry to express myself in ways others can connect with, and I wanted to inspire a new generation to use their imagination and embrace empathy, kindness, and friendship. Lilly the Llama is a dramatic, imaginative character, and through my stories I hope children learn the value of creativity and the importance of being kind, empathetic, and a good friend," said Somera.
Hailing from Umkomaas, on the KwaZulu-Natal south coast, Somera has built her creative practice around both poetry and children’s literature.
Her work focuses on crafting accessible, imaginative narratives that resonate with diverse audiences.
Through the UNESCO City of Literature programme, she has expanded her reach beyond local platforms. Notably, her poetry was featured at the Women’s Rugby World Cup Poetry Scrum in Exeter, a fellow UNESCO City of Literature.
She said her previous books are collections of poetry titled, Made in Poetry, Twenty-Two, and Social Misfit.
"They reflect my journey through life's complexities and encourage readers to embrace who they are.
"Writing poetry is very subjective and often filled with depth and emotion, but writing for children feels very different. There needs to be a simple message or something they can learn, so I had to write with the innocence of a child in mind," she said.
Central to Lilly the Llama Party Drama is the theme of imagination and storytelling.
Somera hopes the book will inspire young readers to embrace creativity and discover the joy of reading and writing their own stories.
“Storytelling can be fun, so they must read more and dream of writing their own stories."
Reflecting on the Articulate Africa event, Somera described it as incredible.
"It reinforced my idea that community is very important. I was able to meet new people with the same interests and connect with other writers. I am grateful for the support I received and the way I felt celebrated. In my speech I mentioned that "when you make space for community, you will always have a place in it"," she said.
Beyond her published work, Somera continues to expand the world of Lilly the Llama through additional stories and animated content shared on social media platforms.
She is also the founder of Paper Trail Literary Journal and works as a freelance self-publishing editor, social media marketer and graphic designer. In addition, she serves as a community facilitator for Youth Capital, an organisation advocating for policy-driven solutions to youth unemployment in South Africa.
Lilly the Llama Party Drama is available at R100 from Somera. Email ekta.somera@gmail.com to purchase a copy.