LOCAL writer, Shongani Nobela (31), launched her second book, Faith, Culture and Technology, on March 25 at Plantation Cafe in Midrand.
She explained the theme of the book: “It is to specifically highlight the inventions which were made within a generation during a particular era. Thereafter, to provide a purposeful insight into how the inventions and the differences encourage our way of living currently.”
The book, which she wrote over a year and a half, was published on February 27 by Reach Publishers, who also published her first book, The Potter Jesus Christ, in 2013.
“The purpose of this book is to help people gain a better knowledge and understanding about true salvation which comes through a genuine acknowledgement of a real gift given to save humankind. It will also help one to prepare for the coming Messiah through a Christian journey while there is still time.”
Nobela first started pursuing writing in 1997, when she realised it was one of her biggest passions. She did a writing workshop with Arts Cape for eight weeks and then started writing seriously.
She started writing her first book in 2010.
When she is not busy writing or balancing her social and personal life with her husband, she also pursues a full-time career as a medical technician at Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital.
“I mostly spend time writing, reading, doing research on different fascinating topics or being with family. My daily routine does not really change unless there are extra once-off things I have to do,” says Nobela.
She adds that her biggest inspiration comes from the relationship she has with Christ. Through growth and learning, she discovered how important it was to communicate messages of positive influence, motivation and inspiration to people.
“In the future I look forward to becoming a more experienced writer. I believe my biggest achievement will come not when I have written many books but through communicating more meaningful and life-changing messages for both young and old in my writing.”
Nobela’s advice for first-time writers is to take the time to work on their writing and not rush publishing, to do proper research about what you are writing about and to consider all options for the publishing process.
