Olwethu Dlulane (33) is an author and relationship coach who is on a mission to build strong families and a better community.

The Pollak Park resident has published his first book, Choose Right or Pay Later, which explores the importance of choosing the right life partner and the consequences of poor relationship choices, including financial impacts, emotional well-being, children, and even future generations.

“I felt this message was needed now because we live in a time where many people are seeking relationship advice but are often receiving conflicting messages,” he said.

Originally from the Eastern Cape, Dlulane’s childhood shaped the person he has become and has contributed to his passion for helping people.

In 1998, he moved to Dal Fouche to stay with his aunt because his young mom couldn’t take care of him.

“As I grew up, it was strange to see my peers living with both parents. I witnessed both the beauty of strong families and the pain caused by broken relationships and poor life decisions.

“These experiences helped shape my desire to understand people, personal growth, and relationships,” Dlulane said.

His love for writing began with a hobby of writing song lyrics.

“I saw how powerful words can be in changing perspectives and inspiring action. I loved communication in general, but I enjoyed writing and penning my thoughts,” he explained.

He worked as a pastoral counsellor – an experience that allowed him to observe the common challenges people faced in relationships.

“I took the ‘frequently asked questions’ I would get in counselling people, and started writing templates to answer them.

“People began reaching out for advice as the couples I counselled recommended me to others who had their own relationship challenges.

“As I worked with more individuals and couples, I realised there was a significant need for practical, honest, and transformational relationship coaching,” he said.

Dlulane talked about the inspiration behind his book.

“The inspiration came from observing how many people make one of the most important decisions of their lives, choosing a life partner, without adequate preparation or wisdom.

“The book gives a science-based framework to evaluate a relationship and encourages readers to make intentional and informed decisions before committing to a lifelong relationship,” he said.

Some of the common challenges he has noticed in relationships include poor communication, unresolved emotional wounds, unrealistic expectations, lack of compatibility, trust issues and difficulties with conflict resolution.

He is grounded and informed by his Christian faith. Dlulane has been mentored by Dr Bakhe Dlamini, whose work he admires.

ALSO READ: Springs Boys High School head boy shares secret to success in matric year

“I am inspired by the seminars he puts together around the country. I am also inspired by the work of the late Dr James Dobson of Focus on the Family,” he said.

Dlulane believes that healthy relationships are the foundation of strong families and healthy communities.

“When people build stable, supportive and loving relationships, children benefit, communities become stronger, and social challenges are reduced.

“In Springs, investing in relationship health is one of the most effective ways to create long-term positive change,” he shared.

His vision is to ensure that every household in Springs reads a copy of his book.

“I hope to host workshops, seminars, and community initiatives that equip people with the tools they need to thrive in their relationships, families, and personal development journeys,” he said.

ALSO READ: Men encouraged to break stigma around physical and mental health