At just 17 years old, Osizweni learner Melokuhle Nsizwa Mhlongo has already published his first book – Think Rich Grow Wise – which he launched at the Newcastle Library on Saturday, September 27.

The Phendukani student says the book grew unexpectedly from his daily journaling habit – a tool he uses to manage ADHD and explore self-discovery. “Out of those imperfect pages, my book was born,” he explained.

Melokuhle stressed his book is not about ‘getting rich quick’ but about cultivating the mindset and habits that build lasting success.

“Every good or bad idea grows out of just a thought,” he said.

Drawing inspiration from authors such as Myles Munroe and Robert Kiyosaki, he encourages young people to sharpen their knowledge, set goals, and discover their “why.”

“Success is a process of daily consistent steps – even if it is writing a single line every day,” he added.

Quoting Abraham Lincoln, he argued that if you give him six hours to chop down a tree, he will spend the first four hours sharpening his axe. “Now is the time to obtain knowledge; to sharpen yourself,” added Melokuhle.

He said he hopes his book will help ‘form young adults’ with one of the important lessons he wants to pass on to his peers, being that small actions lead to big outcomes. He sets daily routines and assigns 30 minutes of writing each day.

Another lesson he is passing on to his readers is to find out why.

“Ask yourself why and for what you are doing certain things.”

Melokuhle’s post-school plans are to undergo military training for two years to discipline himself for the adult world. Thereafter, he wants to study to become a chartered accountant and work himself up in financial planning.

Concluding, the young author remarked that ‘success is a process of daily, consistent steps’.

“Even if it is writing a single line every day.”