Visionaries Leading Publishers hosted the Young Authors team for an exciting and fun hike at Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve on May 2.

This guided outdoor adventure featured Grade Five and Six learners from Naturena 1 Primary, Freedom Primary, Goza Primary, Meredale Primary and Naturena 2 Primary.

Desire Mogosoane, the founder of MVisionary Leading Publishers from Naturena, said this vision started in 2023 when she published her two books after 20 years of effort due to a lack of information.

“I left FNB, where I was working, to pursue this dream. After publishing my first two books in 2023, I saw that there was a gap that needed to be filled in young people taking ownership of their own stories. Learners needed to publish their books.

“When teacher Jabulile Mahlambi from Naturena 1 Primary invited me to read for the learners, I found out they love reading. I also learnt that in our libraries there are many books of which we don’t know the authors. It was very opportune to instil this notion to have local authors, and what better way to have learners write about their own experiences,” she said.

They have 10 authors per school, where the school must raise funds to publish the books. Last year, the principal of Naturena 1 Primary played an important role in pitching an idea to the district to include other schools.

“We don’t limit these learners; they can write whatever they think they can, and they have lots of imagination. We also encouraged them to take writing seriously as it can be a career at the end of their schooling years,” she said.

Visionary Leading Publishers receives about 200 submissions per school each year and must select only 10.

Learners have book launches every October when these books are published. They then sell them to their peers, parents, family friends, and anyone who is interested.

“I’m glad my vision came into fruition, and the learners enjoyed themselves today. We had activities while walking, where learners had the opportunity to familiarise themselves with other learners. They also explored the nature, observed and reflected while on the trails. This ultimately builds teamwork and confidence in themselves.

“I’d like to thank Ward 119 Clr Thobile Zondo for organising three mini-bus taxis for use from Eldos Taxi Association. Again, thank you to the parents of the learners for the support and to my team, including, among others, Dineo Mahao, Jabulile Mahlambi, Nhlanhla Tshabala and Pumeza Macingwane,” noted Mogosoane.

Mogosoane may be contacted on 061 527 9908.