Local wordsmith uses writing skill to shine spotlight on societal issues

When self-published author, Vusi Mabena released his first book titled Tears of Life in 2019, little did he imagine that three years later, his work would land him in the eyes of the international writing community.

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Mabena, who has written nine books and published six successful books seeks to tell the authentic, raw stories of ordinary South Africans, mostly inspired by circumstances of his surroundings in the township.

The 30 year old Dobsonville resident received a nod from the 2022 Global African Honouree Authors Award in July which recognised his writing and storytelling.

“It has been an amazing three years. I have released six books and have won four awards in my writing journey and of course winning the biggest international award in my writing career.

“From being a boy who grew up in Dennilton and now to be recognised among writers from 150 countries is massive,” Mabena said.

The writer said it all started in 2008 and it was thanks to one of his teachers, Mam Kgwediane back in Dennilton who helped him believe and refine his craft.

His latest book, Let Tomorrow’s Beginning Start Today released in June is the sixth book he has published since 2019.

The motivational book shares insight on how to tap into becoming your best vision.

The book contains 19 chapters which delve deep into dedicated topics on how readers can follow their dreams, lead a balanced life and how to learn to spend wisely among other topics.

“The book is a reminder and encourages whoever picks it up that we need to stop postponing life. People need to do away with that mentality of saying we will start tomorrow or next year while we can do it today or now. If you are lacking motivation, or need to reset, this is the book for you,” he said.

Mabena has sold over 866 books by himself but said he hoped to get a distributing deal in the New Year which will see all his books in the major book shops across the country. A move he said would expose his work to a wider reach.

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He currently sells the books from his Dobsonville home and has travelled across five provinces promoting his books. He also writes short stories, novels and poems.

Outside his writing work, he is currently doing his last year of study at Market Theatre Lab, where he is pursuing a qualification in media and production. He said he wants to become a script writer or co- producer, which encompasses his first love of writing.

“What has kept me going is having a clear vision of where I see myself. It hasn’t been easy but I don’t let that deter me.

“I suppose it’s part of my story to become a renowned author and I always remind myself of the end goal. I also want to motivate other young people that it doesn’t matter what background you come from, but you must believe in yourself,” he concluded.

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