Shingirai Manyengavana (Shingie) is a spoken word artist, theatre artist, and master of ceremonies, who is passionate about bringing positive change to his community. Currently, he is practicing his craft at (IFWEA affiliate) Patsime Trust as a Programmes Officer, where he is responsible for conceptualising, coordinating, and implementing communication for development projects under the guidance and mentorship of Jasen Mphepo.
So, we are interested in the Patsime workshop on Puppets and Storytelling. When and where did this take place?
The workshop took place on 31 July 2025 at Patsime Trust offices where we gathered a diverse group of 23 participants aged 18 to 35 years eager to explore the world of puppetry.
How long was the workshop?
The workshop lasted for five hours. However, we began preparations on 1 July to ensure we had a comprehensive understanding of the course material. This preplanning allowed us to effectively master both the theoretical and practical aspects of the workshop.
Were participants from certain organisations, or how were they selected?
Participants were selected from various local community organisations, ensuring a mix of backgrounds and experiences. We also conducted an online call for young people to participate, which helped us reach a broader audience and include diverse voices.
The course was originally designed by IFWEA affiliate Ibtikhar, is this correct?
Yes, the course was originally designed by IFWEA affiliate Ibtikhar. We also drew upon both the theoretical and practical elements from Dalia Ramadan, the course designer, to enrich our adaptation for the Zimbabwean context.
How did you change it to suit a Zimbabwean context?
We adapted the course by incorporating modern and cultural narratives, which made the content relatable and engaging for our participants. We referenced notes developed in our previous study circles on mental health among young people, as well as insights from our discussions on misinformation, disinformation, and pressing social issues such as unemployment and substance abuse.
By encouraging participants to share their personal stories and experiences, we were able to create organic and authentic narratives that resonated with the Zimbabwean context. This approach played a pivotal role in ensuring the course was not only educational but also culturally relevant and impactful.
Please tell us the outline of the course – how was it designed, and what did you do?
Our course outline was initially based on the Ibtikhar course framework. However, as a theatre-based organisation, we adapted it by using theatre as a tool to break down the material, making it more interactive and engaging.
The course began with an introduction to puppetry and storytelling, providing an overview of the significance of puppetry in cultural contexts and its role in storytelling. Participants were divided into groups to foster collaboration and enhance learning. Each group worked together on how to use dolls and handcrafts for storytelling, education, and awareness-raising.
We explored key theoretical concepts related to storytelling and its impact, particularly in the context of local folklore and cultural narratives. Hands-on crafting sessions allowed participants to create their own puppets using various materials, enabling them to apply theoretical knowledge in a practical setting.
As part of the course, groups developed short performances using their crafted puppets, integrating their personal stories and experiences to create authentic narratives. Participants then shared their performances, received constructive feedback, and engaged in discussions about the narratives presented.
The course concluded with a session for reflection, where participants discussed the skills they had acquired and explored how to apply these in their communities. This approach ensured that the course was not only educational but also culturally relevant and interactive, empowering participants to use their creativity for storytelling and social change.
Did you need many materials (paper, cloth etc) to make the workshop happen?
Yes, we required various materials such as paper, cloth, and craft supplies to facilitate the puppet-making process. With the support from IFWEA we were able to gather what we needed.
What was the purpose/goal of the workshop?
The purpose of the workshop was to explore the art of dolls and handcrafts as powerful tools for storytelling, education, and community engagement. Participants delved into the fundamentals of using these mediums to raise awareness about social issues and preserve cultural heritage.
Through a blend of practical exercises, theoretical insights, and collaborative activities, the workshop aimed to equip participants with essential skills in crafting and utilising dolls and handcrafts. A key goal was to emphasise creative approaches to social change, encouraging participants to reflect on their learning journey and apply their newfound skills to empower their communities.
What kind of stories came out?
The workshop generated a diverse array of stories that reflected the participants’ personal experiences and cultural backgrounds. Many participants shared narratives rooted in local folklore, which helped preserve cultural heritage while also addressing contemporary social issues.
Common themes included resilience and overcoming adversity, with participants telling stories of personal challenges, such as navigating unemployment or mental health struggles. These narratives highlighted their resilience and the importance of community support.
Cultural heritage was another significant theme, with stories celebrating local traditions, customs, and values. This reinforced the importance of preserving cultural identity through storytelling.
Additionally, participants addressed pressing social issues such as substance abuse, gender inequality, and youth empowerment. Through their stories, they aimed to raise awareness and inspire change within their communities.
Finally, many narratives emphasised the strength of community bonds and collective action, showcasing how collaboration can lead to positive social change. Overall, the stories created during the workshop were authentic and impact, reflecting both individual journeys and shared experiences that resonated deeply with the participants and their communities.
What was the response of the participants?
The response from the participants was overwhelmingly positive and enthusiastic. Many expressed a deep appreciation for the opportunity to share their stories and engage with one another in a creative environment. Participants noted that the workshop allowed them to connect with their cultural heritage in meaningful ways, fostering a sense of pride and identity.
Several participants highlighted how the hands-on crafting activities enhanced their understanding of storytelling, making the learning process enjoyable and impactful. They reported feeling empowered by the skills they acquired, particularly in using dolls and handcrafts as tools for education and awareness-raising.
Additionally, many participants shared that the collaborative group work fostered a sense of community and support, making them feel more connected to one another. They valued the feedback sessions, which provided a platform for constructive dialogue and reflection on their narratives.
Overall, participants left the workshop feeling inspired and motivated to apply their newfound skills in their communities, eager to use storytelling as a means of addressing social issues and promoting positive change.
Would you like to do this again?
Absolutely, we would love to conduct this workshop again! The response from participants was incredibly encouraging, and it was clear that young people are eager to learn and engage with creative storytelling methods. The first call was oversubscribed, which speaks to the high demand for such opportunities.
Revisiting this workshop would allow us to further empower young people by providing them with valuable skills in storytelling and crafting. Additionally, we can build on the feedback received from participants to enhance the content and structure, ensuring an even more enriching experience.
The enthusiasm and creativity displayed during the sessions demonstrated that there is a strong interest in using art as a means of addressing social issues and preserving cultural heritage. By offering this workshop again, we can continue to inspire and equip young people to make a difference in their communities.
What else would you like to add, about this workshop and your experience?
We need to see more workshops like these, as they provide invaluable hands-on experiences that facilitate learning and personal growth. While the course content is essential, practical courses like this one truly empower participants to apply their knowledge in real-world contexts.
Additionally, implementing a tracking system to monitor how participants share the knowledge they’ve gained would be beneficial. This could involve follow-up sessions or surveys to assess how they apply their skills in their communities, ensuring that the impact of the workshop continues long after it ends.
Furthermore, incorporating opportunities for participants to lead their own workshops or community projects could enhance their learning experience. This would not only reinforce their skills but also encourage them to take ownership of their stories and share their newfound knowledge with others, further amplifying the workshop’s impact.
Overall, expanding practical courses and establishing systems for ongoing engagement will foster a culture of continuous learning and community empowerment.