Author’s sanity stems from writing
The author is also a proud single mother to her seven-year-old daughter, who was recently diagnosed with cerebral palsy.
As Women’s Month draws to a close, the Advertiser features Jacqueline ‘J-Lyn’ Matjila of Dawn Park who found refuge in writing amid her pain and suffering.
The 29-year-old is an author of a book titled Poetry for the Soul.
“I started writing from a very young age, but in 2018 I decided to take my craft seriously. In 2019, I combined all my work into a book. Everything in the book is from the heart and resonates with me. I drew my inspirations from my emotions and surroundings.”
Matjila, who didn’t have many hobbies other than writing, said poetry was her escape as it helped her to unwind and release what’s within.
The Dawn Park resident is part of the Soop online writing competition, where she has written a short children’s story which has placed her in position two.
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In 2020 she submitted her book to be utilised in schools and was selected.
“This year I submitted a total of 117 books to Bongani Rainmaker Logistics, and those books will to be taken selected schools. This achievement made me happy. I don’t do what I do for money but for the love of it. I want to spread the love of writing because I’ve noticed that a lot of children have lost interest in literature.”
Challenges faced
Matjila, who has been through emotional and sexual abuse, has over the years choose not to let her experiences define who she is.
She is a proud single mother to her seven-year-old daughter, who was recently diagnosed with cerebral palsy.
“Raising a child with a disability comes with so many challenges. Having a good family structure has assisted me in remaining strong and positive. In my book I’ve also dedicated a poem to her. Although I’ve been through a lot, I still spread positivity, love and joy everywhere I go.”
The nine-to-five working mother is also studying towards a BCom Entrepreneurship degree through Mancosa.
“My dream is to have a publishing company of my own that will inspire the young generation to take writing seriously.”
Her book is available on Amazon and Smashwords. To get a copy of her book email her at neilwe.jacqueline@gmail.com
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