Meet the young author from Alberton

Katlego Moeng (17) is in Grade 12. She started writing her book, My Unknown Strength, at 12 and published it on July 12 last year.

“I still cannot believe it. I was raised by amazing people and taught to aspire and implement, which has made my journey amazing thus far,” said Katlego.

When asked what thrust her into writing the book, she said, “I did not have the best primary school experience due to my skin colour and how I looked. I was bullied because my peers felt I did not fit the beauty standard at the time.”

At the tender age of 12, Katlego realised her strength and learnt how to defend herself politely and positively.

“The bullies started moving back and leaving me alone, and it was then that I realised I am an exceedingly strong person and should write this book to share my story because I knew there was someone who has been through or is going through the same thing.”

She highlighted that her closest family and friends were excited about her writing the book and starting her motivational speaker journey as they guided and supported her.

“My mother is my greatest support. She was always my cheerleader from the day I can remember, and when I reflect on my life now, I can surely say that if my mom could strive through any circumstance, then so can I.”

My unknown strength

The target audience for her book is not limited to a specific age or gender.

“The book opens up wounds most people have experienced and are not ready to talk about or shy away from because we do not know how to face those emotions,” said Katlego.

“The book breaks down certain things as I share my experiences readers can relate to. It shares solutions on how to overcome and what is needed to move forward from wounds and problems that hinder us,” said Katlego.

She explained that the book was amazing and touching and should be purchased when people are ready to tap into the emotional and mental issues they avoided when people have closed the door on traumatic experiences which were not dealt with and people who are ready to unpack all wounds.

Overcoming challenges

“Publishers never saw the book becoming a success, they were never interested, and some would respond but never get back to me, while others declined my script.

“I was discouraged. I wanted to give up and quit writing, but with thorough research, I overcame that obstacle and found a good publisher. Writer’s block posed a challenge too, which I overcame when I spent more time writing,” said Katlego.

Life balance and plans

“After I complete my matric, I plan to study law, although I am stuck between corporate and criminal law. I aim to attain my honours and master’s, then later venture into a different career,” said Katlego.

The talented author is working on her second book, Rhetorical Acceptance, a self-help book similar to My Unknown Strength.

“I need to find a balance between school and who I want to be because I will not prioritise the one above the other. I enjoy going to the gym and going on solo dates to recharge and relax from writing, school and the foundation,” said Katlego.

Her advice to other aspiring young authors is to push forward and just start writing. “Whether it is in a book or on your laptop – just do it as you have nothing to lose, and during writing, you can heal yourself and take lessons.”

She also encouraged young writers to do a lot of research.

My Unknown Strength is available on Takealot, eBay, Amazon, Walmart, Barnes and Noble Scribd, Third Place Books, z-lib.io, Booktopia and Book A Million.

For more information contact Katlego Moeng on 061 671 6698 or kmoeng322@gmail.com.