11 Jun 2026

A multidisciplinary artiste, Louisa April, recently launched her debut poetry collection, Before You Leave Me, during evening that combined poetry, live music, storytelling and emotional reflection.

The Gaborone-based singer, guitarist, poet and author described the event as both a book launch and a live acoustic introduction to music from her upcoming album, which shared the same title as the poetry collection.

Although she has maintained a relatively low profile in recent years, April said she was no stranger to the creative industry, having performed at events and venues such as Maitisong Festival, Botswana Craft, AVANI, Jazz X Change, Naked Soul Sessions and RMB Song Nights Namibia.

She explained that the experience explored themes of healing, heartbreak, transition and self-discovery.

“At its core, the project is about learning to let go of things that no longer serve us and choosing yourself again after grief, disappointment or confusion,” she said.

April noted that the setting was intentionally designed to make audiences feel emotionally connected to the art and storytelling.

She described the event as a meaningful reintroduction to the literary and performance space after spending time away writing, creating and rebuilding herself creatively.

Her vision is to continue capturing honest human experiences through different art forms while collaborating with creatives who share similar values of vulnerability, healing and authenticity.

“I wrote, edited, designed and self-published the book. I also created the music and curated the creative direction for the entire experience,” she said.

The live performances featured trumpet player, Njaveva Bingana, guitarist Sandi, percussionist Ndabezinhle and keyboardist David.

April said her choice of collaborators reflected her appreciation for Pan-African identity and emotional storytelling. Born in Botswana to a Namibian mother and Nigerian father, she said diversity and warmth were important influences in her work.

She further explained that Before You Leave Me combined spoken word, live music, audience interaction and healing conversations into an immersive artistic experience.

The project’s visual identity and branding, she added, drew inspiration from African contemporary design, poetry culture and her personal artistic style.

“The typography is intentionally imperfect because life itself is not neat or perfect,” she said.

April acknowledged that independently funding the production while balancing corporate responsibilities was one of the greatest challenges she faced.

“As an independent artist, you learn that creating art is one thing, but producing experiences requires sacrifice, resilience and community support,” she said.

She credited friends, family and collaborators for helping bring the project to life and thanked supporters for investing in independent art through ticket and book purchases.

During the event, April also participated in a discussion with author and mental health practitioner, Bakang Akoonyatse, where they explored themes of love, heartbreak, vulnerability and healing reflected in the book.

Speaking during the conversation, April said therapy, self-awareness and personal growth continued to shape her understanding of love and relationships.

She described Before You Leave Me as a collection of reflections on self-love, platonic love, romantic love and emotional healing.

Guests enjoyed poetry readings, live performances, dinner and curated gift bags containing copies of the book and lavender bath salts created in collaboration with local wellness brand Bathong.

Audience members praised the event for its emotional honesty, intimate atmosphere and thoughtful presentation.

One attendee, Thusie Ethan, described the experience as unique, healing and beautifully organised.

Another guest, Keabetswe Molotsi, said the poetry readings and music felt deeply personal and emotionally moving. ENDS