Commissions
Poetry Commissions
Thembe is skilled at turning ideas from brands, cultural institutions and initiatives into bespoke poetry that brings meaning and emotional resonance through storytelling.
Her commissioned work spans crafting original poetry for global brands such as De Beers and Amnesty International, as well as cultural institutions such as the Barbican Centre, the Courtauld Gallery and the Museum of Gloucester. Thembe has also produced live commissions, where she observes and responds to conversations in real time whilst crafting and performing piece to share as a reflective closing offering.
Recent public work includes a response a Noah Davis exhibition at the Barbican, the UK's first institutional survey of the late American artist, and a poem marking 75 years of the NHS, in partnership with University College Hospital London.
Thembe also writes for private occasions, including weddings and award ceremonies, bringing the same heartfelt craft to personal milestones as to public commissions.
Educational Resources
Thembe has produced educational resources commissioned by leading arts and educational organisations. Some examples include:
‘Teaching for Creativity’ interactive digital resources for schools commissioned by A New Direction, embedding creative writing into key stage 3 relationships and sex education lessons.
A creative writing classroom activity commissioned by Apples & Snakes for National Poetry Day 2018
Editorial & Story Development
Thembe’s editorial experience extends to :
An impact journalism piece that involved interviewing and writing about creative innovation in London.
Delivering authenticity reading services on upcoming fiction publications for prolific publishers including Hachette UK.
Providing narrative and editorial oversight for zines connected to youth-led projects.
Research, interviewing, scripting and editing for oral histories and podcasts.
Previous clients
