Zama Madinana is a South African poet, based in Johannesburg. His work has appeared in The Shallow Tales Review Kalahari Review, Efiko, Libretto, Brittle Paper, Olney, and other literary publications. Zama’s work focuses mainly on love, politics, and social issues. In 2021, he won the third prize of the Sol Plaatje EU Poetry Award. He was nominated for a Pushcart Prize in 2022.His full-length poetry collection, ‘94 was published in June 2023, and it was longlisted for South African Literary Award in 2024.
In addition to regular performances and readings in Johannesburg and across South Africa, he has performed his poetry in various countries including Botswana, Mozambique, and Lesotho. He has also performed his work at poetry festivals like Poetry Africa and McGregor Poetry festivals. He is currently studying towards a Creative degree with the University of South Africa.