By Ester Nontsikelelo Baatjies (Free State World)
Gaopalelwe Sebate from Free State, Thaba Nchu is a 24-year-old multi-talented poetess that mix the rhythm of poetry with the precision of mechanical engineering as she is an engineering graduate, turning personal hardships into artistic and technical achievements.
Gao’s poetic journey began at age 9 in Thaba Nchu, where her primary school teacher spotted her potential even though she was shy. She performed Tswana poems at school events and church, often written by her dad or sister, despite facing mockery that led her to quit in Grade 8. Her love for poetry came back in Grade 9 during her mother’s prolonged hospitalization, becoming a vital source for unvoiced emotions that continues to help her through life’s trials.
Through her “Gaopalelwe Poetry Club,” Gao organized poetry competitions and event planning before pursuing IT System Development and qualifying as a mechanical technician. Standout performances include Radioactive Poetry, I’m Worth It, Fola Mosadi, and the recent “Youth of Biko Poetry Festival” in 2025, which is a milestone after a car accident left her on crutches.
Her creative ispirations come from sad songs or stories simmer for days until a “burning” urge demands drafting the full poem. Her influences range from Rudy Francisco and Button Poetry to local stars like Miss Faith, Chance Ntombela, and sessions with her sister Khumo Sebate.
Her High school love for Mathematics and Physics drew Gao to mechanical engineering. A standout project in Mechanical Engineering Design 2 involved gearbox optimization: balancing power transmission, size, cost, and weight through gear ratios and durable materials.
Gao merges engineering into poetry seamlessly. Structure mirrors bridge design via meter and stanzas for impact; problem-solving brings out emotions like diagnosing machines, as in a broken clock poem using time for repair metaphors. Critical thinking from engineering sharpens her wordplay.
As a recent graduate applying for internships and apprenticeships in engineering’s broad industries, Gao eyes an unfolding career. Expect more performances, online poetry videos, drama projects, and a published book—proof that, as she says, “it really does get better with God.”
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