LANGUAGE not only helps us share ideas and feelings but also helps us connect and bring about social cohesion. For Izinga Ridge resident and academic, Maashi Rampersad, this much is true.

She recently launched her book Your Basic isiZulu Guide to the Kingdom of the Zulus, in the hopes of giving non-mother-tongue speakers a crash course in Zulu.

“My vision for this book is that it is seen as a survival guide and a way to help others learn one of the most widely spoken languages in KZN. It has everything from basics like introductions, days of the week and colours to situational conversations. I was really inspired by Nelson Mandela’s phrase: ‘If you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his head. If you talk to him in his own language, that goes to his heart’. That really spoke to me as I see language as something that can bring about social cohesion,” Rampersad explained.

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She said the feedback from family, friends and people who’ve purchased a copy has been overwhelmingly positive.

“The feedback has been phenomenal, and the support has been amazing. It really has made me feel special knowing this could be someone’s starting point into this much-loved language. I feel a profound sense of joy and honour to have written my first isiZulu book. My passion for learning this widely spoken language began over 20 years ago when I embarked on my undergraduate studies at the University of KwaZulu-Natal,” she said.

Rampersad added that she has also completed her Honours Degree and Masters Degree in isiZulu.

“I started with the language in first year, and I took the subject initially as a filler. However, as the course went on, it became one of my life’s greatest passions. Through this journey, I have been able to open many doors and help others. I have been involved in moderating and editing isiZulu literature for educational purposes over a period of time now, which has been such a fulfilling journey,” she said.

The book is currently available through Rampersad’s website, and she hopes to speak to bookstores in the province.

If you would like to purchase a copy of the book, email maashirampersad@gmail.com or contact her through her website at www.learnzuluwithmaashi.co.za.