Filled with anger, feelings of betrayal and resentment, Padmini Govender of Benoni grasped her pen, letting her pain seep into the pages of her notebook.

At 16, poetry became a source of healing for her, with her deeply personal verses helping to mend the cracks in her broken heart.

Now 56, the author has opened up about her personal journey, sharing her experiences of adulthood, motherhood and womanhood.

Padmini, along with 14 other local writers, recently contributed to We Are Because We Are, a South African poetry anthology published by Paper Trail Literary Press. The anthology brings together creatives through the shared philosophy of ubuntu.

Other works created by her include The Moon Child and Chasing Petals.

Chasing Petals was born following a trip deep into the heart of the Namaqualand, with her husband.

“Growing up during Apartheid South Africa, our perception of the Afrikaner culture was fraught with misconception,” she said.

“Travelling through the Klein Karoo, to the little towns which creates its colourful tapestry, we met the most amazing people who tie these communities together.

“My preconceived thoughts about ‘Boers’ were abolished, inspiring me to put my experiences into writing.

“Despite our country’s past, South Africans are deep, always seeking meaningful connection. “In our diversity, we are united in our pursuit to live full and happy lives. We are the same.”

In celebration of Women’s Month, Padmini hopes her work will quiet the voices of inadequacy that often silence the inspiration and strength held by every girl and woman.

“Growing up, from our formative years and into our relationships and working lives, we are often reminded of the status quo: that men are the heads of the home,” she said.

“Because of this, we make ourselves small, abandoning our dreams and aspirations. Women are incredibly strong, and we do not need to stand in the shadows of others.”

“I hope my words will inspire women to stand tall, chase their dreams, have their voices heard and pursue their ambitions.

“We too deserve to be happy purely because we are!”

Of her future pursuits, Padmini says she hopes to write a tell-all biography.

“We all have a story to tell. It may never become a best-seller, but contained within its pages we hold the potential to inspire others, spread stories of hope, unifying us as individuals.

To get your hands on a copy of Padmini’s work, contact her on 082 446 3400.

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