MindScribe Network

Today, May 16th, 2026, marks the 43rd anniversary of the founding of the SPLA in 1983, the beginning of the liberation struggle that eventually led to the independence of South Sudan. For many South Sudanese, this day carries deep historical meaning. It is a day of remembrance, sacrifice, reflection, and tribute to the heroes and heroines who gave everything for the dream of self-determination.

Across the country, many citizens quietly honor the day in personal and peaceful ways. Veterans remember the difficult years of struggle. Families reflect on loved ones lost during the liberation movement. Supporters wear commemorative attire and gather in local memorial events, freedom squares, and community spaces to pay tribute to the sacrifices made for the nation.

But May 16th is also a day of difficult reflection.

It is a reminder that while political independence was achieved, many citizens still struggle daily with poverty, unemployment, displacement, corruption, tribal division, insecurity, and lack of opportunity. Many young people were born during conflict, raised in uncertainty, and are now trying to survive in a country rich in resources but still struggling to provide stability and development for its people.

May 16th should therefore remain not only a day of celebration, but also a day of honest national reflection. A moment to remember where the country came from, where it lost direction, and where it must go next.

The liberation struggle gave South Sudan independence, but the current generation now faces a different struggle, the struggle against corruption, tribalism, injustice, hate speech, hopelessness, and failed leadership.

The greatest way to honor the fallen heroes and heroines is not through speeches alone, but through building the peaceful, united, and prosperous nation they fought for. A country where citizens live with dignity, where children have access to education.

© Paul Ayuen Chuor Mach

Mr. Speaker, Adam Piok.
Your commitment, professionalism and punctuality were instrumental in making the four-day program a success.

MindScribe Network is proud to acknowledge your positive contribution.

Adit Mark Diing, a member of MindScribe Network Junior's Club

Theme: Girl Child
Title: Let Me Shine

in a world full of stars,
i want to get their sparkling power,
to break the mold & let my light
leave a mark upon the sky.

because i am a girl child,
carrying dreams big & wide,
i want the space to chase them
like the light that follows night.

let me soar with my voice & pen,
let me carry my pride without conditions.

i walk with footsteps that
leave marks & light to spark the darkness
because i am brave like a lion,
no wall can block me,
it's just me and the sky.

i am a girl child— a rising star,
promising to shine & give light to the world
with every step— i will own my voice & make noise on the quiet ground.

let me take my time to shine
for i am a girl child with dreams.

MINDSCRIBE NETWORK
Subject: Vote of Thanks to Our Trainers

To:
Mr. Thon Jacob
Mr. Lukuach Deng

On behalf of MindScribe Network and all participants of our recent training program, I extend our sincere gratitude to you for your mentorship and for sharing your expertise in poetry.

Your experience, coupled with the clarity and depth of your explanations, brought the lessons to life. You ignited passion for writing among our trainees and gave voices authority to speak loudly. Your guidance has inspired them to write with greater confidence and purpose.

We deeply appreciate your dedication & energy throughout the four-day program. Your contribution has left a lasting impact on our community of emerging writers.

Thank you once again for your time, commitment & the knowledge you generously imparted.

Nyok Buol Nhial,
Program Manager,
MindScribe Network.

MindScribe Network Concluded Four-Day Intensive Training Program
Theme: “Scribing Thoughts and Connecting Minds"
Juba, South Sudan | 14th May 2026

MindScribe Network is pleased to announce the successful conclusion of its Four-Day Intensive Training Program for Poets and Poetry Adjudicators.

The program was held from 11th to 14th May 2026, it brought together emerging poets and adjudicators under the theme “Scribing Thoughts and Connecting Minds. Over the course of four days, participants engaged in workshops on creative writing, performance, critical analysis, and ethical adjudication, building both skill and confidence.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Bornwell Academy for providing a conducive and supportive environment that made this program possible. Your hospitality and commitment to nurturing young talent created the ideal space for learning and collaboration.

We extend our gratitude to the well-wishers who attended our program, your encouragement and inspiration is highly appreciated.

Our sincere appreciation also goes to all attendees for the passion, discipline, and love for poetry you demonstrated throughout the training. You are now equipped not just with certificates, but with a responsibility.

As our Program Manager remarked:
“Hide your certificates under your bags, and let the power of your voice shine. Let your pens grow sharp. Go and change the world.”

MindScribe Network remains committed to building a generation of thinkers, creators, and leaders through the arts.

Scribing Thoughts. Connecting Minds.

Every great dream begins with the dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world.

Our youngest Poet, Nyandeng Kongor Majak a member of MindScribe Network Junior's Club.

Keep up your voice.

From: MindScribe Network
To: The Matrons of Bornwell Academy

MindScribe Network extends its sincere appreciation to the Matrons of Bornwell Academy who attended our recent four-day training program.

Your dedication & hard work in discovering & nurturing the talents of young learners did not go unnoticed. The passion you bring to your role is the foundation upon which confident, creative, and capable students are built.

We look forward to continuing this partnership with you in shaping the next generation. Together, we can create an environment where every child’s talent is seen, valued, and developed.

Thank you for your commitment to the children.

Scribing Thoughts. Connecting Minds.

The youngest voices in the building—
empowering young minds, inspiring bold futures.

Members of MindScribe Network Junior's Club.

Scribing Thoughts & Connecting Minds.

A VOICE THAT REFUSES TO BE SILENT
Celebrating Achok — MindScribe Network Trainee

Achok Garang, a poet from King's Secondary School is participating in our four-day intensive training program. She carries an exceptional voice—one that refuses to surrender to the dark night.

She emerged 4th in the TBA Poetry Contest, showcasing remarkable creativity and expressive language as she gave voice to her generation and her nation. Achok believes, and rightly so, that she is a voice for South Sudan.

With MindScribe Network, Achok will grow in a creative environment that nurtures talent and provides a platform where every voice has the chance to be heard.

"Where there’s a will, there’s a way,"
Stay focused and firm in this journey, Achok. Keep writing, keep speaking, and watch the beauty and power of your voice in transformation of lives.

Scribing Thoughts and Connecting Minds.
MindScribe Network

MINDSCRIBE NETWORK | TRAINING OF POETS & POETRY ADJUDICATORS

Today marked the third session of our four-day training program, with an inspiring and massive turnout of poetry lovers, creatives, and passionate voices.

Tomorrow, 14th May, will officially mark the grand finale of this impactful journey. We warmly invite all poets, well-wishers, supporters, and lovers of literature to join us for the closing session as we celebrate and encourage our trained poets and adjudicators.

Come and witness these powerful voices as they prepare to speak boldly for the nation, inspire communities, and shape the future through poetry.

Certificates will be awarded to our esteemed trainees in recognition of their dedication, participation, and commitment throughout the program.

Your presence, motivation, and words of encouragement will mean so much as we continue building a stronger creative community together.

You are all invited to attend, support, and stand with MindScribe Network.

Scribing Thoughts & Connecting Minds.

We are honored to be joined by Massawa Junub Kingdom (Ustaz Marco Deng Ateny), an icon, celebrated poet, a teacher, gifted singer, and respected national figure during the MindScribe Network training at Bornwell Academy
Your presence inspires creativity, excellence and the power of art in shaping minds and society.
We're not alone in this journey, we're with the whole country.

Thank you so much for attending this crucial training.