At just seven years old, SPARK Witpoortjie learner Tlotlo Tsheka is already a writer and publisher of two books, proving that age is just a number.

When she began writing her books, Remember When and Mommy’s Secret, she was doing what many children love: imagining stories, creating characters and sharing ideas.

She says she wrote the books to inspire other children to enjoy storytelling and imagination. “My books are about things that happen in real life and stories that make people feel happy,” she says.

“I get my ideas from my life, my family and the things I imagine.”

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Tlotlo’s love for storytelling began long before her books were published. According to her mother, Thatohatsi Tsheka, she has always had a natural way of expressing herself.

“From a very young age, Tlotlo enjoyed telling stories about her day and creating imaginative characters,” Thatohatsi explains. “What stood out was how much joy she found in storytelling.”

Rather than directing her daughter’s creativity, Thatohatsi chose to create space for it. “When it became clear that she was serious about her stories, my role became one of support rather than direction.”

This approach stems from literacy being part of everyday life in the Tsheka household. “We read together, talk about stories and treat writing as a form of expression rather than a task,” she says.

“This helps make learning feel enjoyable and meaningful. More than success, I want Tlotlo to grow with confidence, curiosity and courage.”

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School principal Khanyisile Zwane also expresses her pride in Tlotlo’s achievement.

“There is nothing more fulfilling than seeing a learner take their learning beyond the classroom and turn it into something impactful,” she says, adding that at SPARK Schools, literacy is treated as a foundational life skill.

“Our approach draws from a curriculum that deepens understanding and strengthens reading and writing skills. Through structured lessons, consistent practice and targeted support, our learners develop both competence and confidence.”

For Tlotlo, writing her books was a process she enjoyed building step by step.

Her vision is simple but ambitious: “My dream is to write more books and for lots of children to read them.”

Her message to other children is clear and encouraging: “Just start writing and don’t be scared. Your story is important.”