Bophelong , — At just 19 years old, Tshepang Mkhwanazi is emerging as a beacon of hope and inspiration in the literary world, hailing from Bophelong in Vanderbijlpark in Gauteng. Writing in Sesotho, his native language, Mkhwanazi is not only preserving cultural heritage but also carving out a unique space for himself in African literature. With a growing portfolio that includes five manuscripts awaiting publication, Mkhwanazi is a young author on a mission to impact lives through the power of words.
Tshepang Mkhwanazi’s journey as a writer began in 2019 when he started penning his thoughts in a diary. What began as personal reflections soon evolved into a series of manuscripts, all written in Sesotho. “I’ve always wanted to be a Sotho author,” Mkhwanazi shares. His passion for the language, coupled with his desire to stand out, fueled his commitment to writing. Today, he has five manuscripts in Sesotho that are ready to be published.
Mkhwanazi’s debut book, MENOKOTSHWAI YA BASOTHO, is a rich collection of poems, short stories, and folklore that delves into the history and uniqueness of the Basotho tribe. “This book is a celebration of Sotho culture,” he explains. His love for his heritage is evident on every page, and the book serves as a testament to the power of storytelling in preserving cultural identity. Alongside this, Mkhwanazi has also written two dramas titled LEFUFA LA BAENA and MOTLALEPULA, as well as a forthcoming novel combining two stories, PUSELETSO LE MOLAHLEHI.
Mkhwanazi’s talent was recognized on a continental stage when he secured 4th place in the African Teens Authors Initiative (ATABI) competition. “I was ecstatic,” he recalls. “It was a milestone that uplifted my reputation as a new author.” As the first author from his family and township, Bophelong, and the only representative from Gauteng, Mkhwanazi’s achievement is a source of pride not only for himself but for his community as well.
The road to publication was not without its challenges. Mkhwanazi struggled for years to find a publisher who believed in his work. “The publishers I contacted charged more than R9,000, which was beyond my means as a student,” he recounts. However, his determination paid off when he found a Sesotho publisher, Mokete Mosia, who understood his situation and offered him a more affordable option. Despite these obstacles, Mkhwanazi’s resolve to see his work in print never wavered.
As a motivational speaker, Mkhwanazi’s writing is deeply intertwined with his mission to inspire others. “Every story and poem I write contains motivational quotes,” he says. His experiences have taught him valuable life lessons, which he now shares with others, particularly young people facing similar challenges. “In order to attain your goals, you need to be ready to face any kind of obstacles,” he advises.
In addition to his writing, Mkhwanazi is a recent graduate in radio production and an active motivational speaker. “I educate people about life, especially after matric,” he says. His goal is to be a role model for others, showing them that it is possible to achieve their dreams despite the challenges they may face. His poetry performances are another outlet through which he motivates and inspires his audience.
Mkhwanazi’s art and poetry are not just personal expressions but tools for community upliftment. He uses his platform to encourage others to pursue their dreams and to believe in the power of perseverance. “I want to become an inspiration and role model to the youth of South Africa,” he asserts. His message is clear: with determination and faith, anything is possible.
To young writers looking up to him, Mkhwanazi offers this advice: “Writing is therapeutic. If you’ve written something, publish it—it may impact someone’s life positively.” He emphasizes the importance of persistence and cautions against expecting quick financial returns. “Remember, God’s delay is not God’s denial. Dreams delayed are not dreams denied.”
Mkhwanazi’s long-term goals are as ambitious as they are inspiring. He aims to publish 60 books within the next 15 years and hopes to be honored with an Honorary Doctorate in authorship. Beyond his personal achievements, he envisions a future where he can give back to the community through his own publishing company, *It Takes a Village Publishing House*. “It takes a village to raise a black child,” he says, encapsulating his belief in the power of community support. Mkhwanazi also plans to promote literacy through writing competitions, read-aloud events, and the establishment of a library in his township.
As Tshepang Mkhwanazi continues to write, speak, and inspire, his journey serves as a reminder that with perseverance, passion, and faith, anything is possible. His story is not just one of personal triumph but of a young man’s commitment to uplifting his community and preserving his cultural heritage for future generations.
