Janap’s children’s book imparts important lessons

Author and philanthropist Janap Biemba hopes her inaugural book cultivates a love for reading in children and also imparts the important lesson of asking for help and helping others.

The book, titled Dingo the Brave Elephant, captures the story of Dingo who ventures into the sea out of curiosity to see if he can swim. Once in the water, Dingo has fun and splashes around, unaware that the waves around him are growing bigger.

He swims with all his might but his strength soon fades due to fatigue and Dingo drifts further into the ocean until he is safely rescued and taken ashore by Yanis, a fisherman.

Janap explained the book, launched on October 5, highlights the themes of adventure, courage and the value of friendship.

She added that the lesson from Dingo’s adventure is that there’s nothing wrong with being curious but it’s important to know our limits and when to ask for help.

“The moral of the story is for children to learn how and when to ask for help, as well as the importance of helping others,” she said.

The author emphasised the importance of reading from a young age, adding that she would be releasing a series of books to foster a reading culture among primary school learners, especially from grades three to six.

Also Read: Foundation gifts organisation with fresh veggies

“There’ll be a series of books following this one. The plan is to have all the animals in the book have a story linked to character building and ensure children learn the values through reading. It’s also to enhance reading among learners.”

Philanthropy

The proceeds from the book will go to Maya’s Legacy, an initiative Janap started in memory of her late daughter, Maya, to uplift and support girls from disadvantaged backgrounds with hygiene packs.

“It’s important to ensure a disadvantaged young girl doesn’t feel neglected and to build proper hygiene during their menstrual cycle,” Biemba said.

The hygiene packs come with a ’10 tips for pad-days’ booklet, written by Janap and sponsored by the 100% Foundation, which offers guidelines on how girls can manage their hygiene throughout their menstrual cycle.

“The booklet also offers relevant information on the different types of menstruation, who to talk to and where to ask for help. We’ve also included a helpline page for depression, substance abuse and other tips a young girl may need.”

Janap appealed for support, saying the book is an investment for a bigger project which would benefit the needy in the community.

“Dingo the Brave Elephant is available for R100 via direct sales. If anyone wants to reach out, they can do so on the 21for21Mayas Legacy Facebook page.”

Janap thanked the Lone Spur in Brentwood Park for supporting her project.

Also Read: Organisations team up to fight hunger