At just 15 years old, Onela Mndiyata has published her first book of poetry, Whispers from the Soul, overcoming emotional and logistical challenges to share her voice with the world. The teenage author from Mbizana, a small rural town in the Eastern Cape, says her writing reflects themes young people face today: love, identity, faith, peer pressure, and teenage struggles.
“After so many challenges I faced during the writing process, when I finally published my book, I was relieved,” writes Onela. “I was thrilled to share creativity with the world, eager to connect with readers.”
Her English poetry book addresses critical issues including LORD’S PRAISES, LOVE, IDENTITY, and the pressures of teenage life, drawing from her own experiences and observations. Growing up in a rural area where unemployment and social pressures are high, she believes talents must be nurtured — not ignored — during high school years.
“We must also have time to expand and dig into our talents because in the future these may bring food to the table,” she says, urging young people to fight for their dreams and trust in God’s power.
Onela has written over 20 unpublished short stories, many focused on heavy themes like teenage pregnancy, bullying, rape, and “umjolo” (teen dating culture). She plans to publish these under the title Cosmos of Teenage Girls.
Despite her success, she admits the journey has been emotionally difficult. She has battled financial stress, depression, and pressure to balance her schoolwork and literary ambitions.
“I felt like I’m not doing anything good by writing,” she reveals. “But I overcame these challenges by staying positive and surrounding myself with supportive people who believe in me.”
Now, Onela is actively searching for sponsorship. She hopes for a partnership with someone who will support her emotionally, financially, and professionally — a sponsor who will guide her through the publishing world and help her grow as a young author.
“To be a writer isn’t easy,” she confesses, “but I’m looking forward to a sponsor that will publish my work for mutual benefits.”
Onela concludes with a heartfelt message to her peers: “NEVER GIVE UP AT THEIR DREAMS. IT’S NEVER LATE TO CHASE AND FULFIL DREAMS.”
For sponsorship or inquiries, you may contact her through her school or local support networks in Mbizana.
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