Hey, y’all!

I’m Phiwe Mhlope, a Zimbabwean-born writer living in the U.S. Among my many artistic expressions, I have a deep love for monochrome aesthetics and am a self-proclaimed soulful Amapiano music connoisseur.

I write to interrogate my reality thus, hopefully make it better. I’m a believer in the power of stories—their transformative nature and how they shape our being—hence my constant returning to the page. I’m intrigued, passionate and curios about African politics, diasporic living and the lifelong process of becoming one’s best version of themselves.

You’ll find, in this publication, my thoughts on politics, especially that of my home country (Zimbabwe); personal essays and social commentary; and reflections on life through the lens of a Zimbabwean childhood and trying-to-adult experience in America.

My writing draws inspiration from the literature I’m consuming, movies, music, documentaries, and cultural figures—celebrity or otherwise. From these influences, I extract meaning that resonates with my life and, hopefully, with yours. In many ways, this publication is a conversation with my former, present, and future self. It is me speaking into the void about what was, what is and what could be. However, I’m deeply grateful for everyone who may find value in these musings.

I won’t be here every week, but you can count on me at least once a month. Make sure to stay tuned!

Why become a paid subscriber?

This newsletter is free for everyone, but if you’d like to support my creative journey, you can subscribe for $5/month or $50/year.

(Side note: If Substack allowed, I’d set the price at $1/month—just for motivation!)

Speaking of motivation… drop a comment, leave a like, follow me on the socials, or tell me why I shouldn’t quit my day job. Your feedback keeps me going (or at least keeps my ambitions in check).

Peace & Love ✌🏾💖

Aluta Continua, beautifully so.