Nkomazi author releases Swati novella ‘Umbala Welutsandvo’
This talented writer said it only took three days to write the book in her home language of Siswati.
At just 20 years old, Marcia Lekhuleni is making waves in the literary world with her love of her home language, Siswati.
She recently released a novella digitally called Umbala Welutsandvo.
Lekhuleni is passionate about creative storytelling in indigenous languages.
With a childhood dream to write a story in her home language, Lekhuleni poured her heart and soul into this fictional story about a Swati royal family. She said she gained inspiration for the book from her desire to write a story that resonated with women from all different walks of life.
“I also drew inspiration from my own experiences and observations, crafting a narrative that explores the complexities of romantic love, power dynamics and self-reflection. I also explored the complications of royal life, the struggles of a woman in a patriarchal society and the importance of self-reflection that leads to healing and growth,” she said.
The book is a mere 19 pages long and it took her just three days to write it.
Ndlovu’s love of reading and writing developed at a young age. She said she remembers being drawn to stories that transported her to new worlds and introduced her to relatable characters.
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“I never had access to Siswati literature that wasn’t written for educational purposes so I wrote a story in my home language that I would’ve loved to read as a child,” she said.
Lekhuleni was born in Mangweni and attended Mjejane Primary School where her talent was discovered by her Grade Six teacher, who believed in her writing skills and pushed her to enter writing competitions.
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She matriculated at Shiyukane Secondary School where she shone in literature studies.
Her goals and aspirations include becoming one of the best writers in the province. “Besides being an author, I aspire to be an industrial psychologist. I am fascinated by human behaviour and would love to make a difference in various communities,” Lekhuleni said.
