Mohalenyane Phakela
‘I WAS saved by the Lord!” exclaimed renowned poet Sheila Khala (pictured), as she narrated to the Weekender her ordeal after being involved in a car accident.
Khala sustained injuries in a horrific car crash last month on her way to Bloemfontein with the vehicle she was in rendered a write-off.
Khala (24) is the founder of local poetry movement Poetry is Alive; a platform for unearthing raw talent. A pioneer in the local poetry scene, Khala has also made inroads in South Africa, having performed at the prominent Mangaung Cultural Festival among others.
“People have been asking why there is no Poetry is Alive,” said an emotional Khala.
“It has been a difficult time for me as the founder of this movement due to the car accident that I was involved in last month.”
According to Khala, the accident happened as she was accompanying the poets who had performed at the Poetry is Alive launch in Mohale’s Hoek.
“We were four people in the car, and as we were about to enter the N8 route, a speeding white car appeared from nowhere and hit us,” she said.
“I lost control of the car and it rolled five times. The car that hit us never stopped as it was nowhere to be seen when we regained consciousness.”
Khala was admitted to Netcare Private Hospital in Bloemfontein and then transferred to Maseru Private Hospital the following day.
“My spine, neck, chest and head were affected and I have to go for check-ups,” she said.
“Although the car is a write off, I am alive and recovering.”
Khala was full of praise for those who visited her as she was recuperating, adding the period gave her the opportunity to reflect on her “purpose and vision”.
“Life has meaning and when you know what you live for, it is important to acknowledge your calling.
“I thank The Lord for choosing me and trusting me with so many lives and souls to nurture and inspire,” Khala mused.
As a parting shot, Khala promised her fans the Poetry is Alive sessions would resume soon.
“I am Sheila Khala, a true believer and my life is a testimony of what God is capable of doing. I love you and miss you all,” she said.