Just a year after publishing her book, ‘Smiley and the Magic of Her Curls’, young local author Mylee-Grace Merkle has released another project aimed at inspiring learners to embrace who they are.

Now 11 years old, Merkle has published a motivational student diary inspired by the message behind her first book. Since releasing her book last year, Merkle has appeared on national television and social media platforms.

Vryheid’s young author reaches wider audiences

She has also travelled to places such as Cape Town and Swaziland to share her work with a wider audience.

Merkle said it was a proud moment to see herself on television and to have people recognise her after watching her interviews.

She also described travelling with her book as an exciting experience that allowed her to introduce herself and share what she stands for with people in different places.

Motivational diary encourages children to embrace their uniqueness

She further explained the inspiration behind her latest project, saying she wanted to create something that would remind children of their worth and encourage them to embrace their differences.

“This is more than a diary; it is a motivational diary. Sometimes children forget that they are special and that it is okay to be different. I then decided to create a special diary that will always remind them to be true to themselves and choose themselves, no matter what.”

Mother praises young author’s determination and creativity

Her proud mother, Kayla Merkle, shared that, “I am incredibly proud of Mylee-Grace and everything she has achieved. She has a remarkable, positive and determined attitude, and an inspiring ability to embrace challenges and adapt with confidence. As her mother, I often find myself in awe of her, as she pursues ideas and dreams that I could never have imagined at her age. She has reminded me that sometimes the only thing standing between an idea and its potential is the willingness to believe in it and put in the work.

“It has been such a rewarding experience, not only watching her grow but also learning from her along the way. I am excited to see where her creativity, courage and determination will take her next.

“If there is one thing she continues to teach me, it is that age should never be a limitation to dreaming big, challenging expectations and believing in what is possible.”

Mylee-Grace Merkle plans more inspiring projects

Mylee-Grace thanked everyone who has supported and encouraged her throughout her journey. She gave special thanks to Monique Mortimer, who helped illustrate both her book and the new diary.

She is already looking ahead to her next project. She plans to publish another book that will continue promoting self-love and believing in oneself.

If you would like to know more about Mylee-Grace and her work, call 078 403 7455 or check out ‘Smiley and the Magic of Her Curls’ on Instagram.

The news provided to you in this link comes to you from the editorial staff of the Vryheid Herald, a sold newspaper distributed in the Vryheid area.