They say that writers are those who battle between the need to express themselves and the need to hide. This is my 6th book, and the first one that has been officially published (my first book was published on Amazon years ago, but I have yet to receive a payment so I can assume that no one has bought a copy yet, which is quite a welcome relief, I still can’t get through reading that book without crying my eyes out)
I have delayed sharing the news for various reasons and a major one being that I’m scared. Now that it’s out there, there’s really no turning back. I have exposed some intimate parts of my own journey, have been honest about some very controversial views that I hold and I have also spoken about my family. I can claim that I did my best to ‘explain myself’ and not disparage anyone, but a small part of me is hoping that people will buy the book just for their book shelves and not actually read it (yes, I’m that weird). Another reason I’m nervous is the hype, I’m not an entertainer or a Julius-Malema wannabee and I’ve never aspired to be a ‘celebrity’ of any sort. So as much as I plan to set up a PR campaign around the book and promote it where I can, my art is my truth and I believe that as a young leader I have a contribution to make. But as the opening line of this note states, I’m always battling with the tension between expressing and hiding. Some people may not get this, but that’s okay.
Another reason for the delay, I am still figuring out a way to distribute the book. For now it’s available on http://theafricanpioneer.com/online-store.php . God bless you if you have the patience to navigate through the process of placing the order, and I think it’s set to charge in U$D so forgive me if you get charged U$D 270 instead of R229 + R45 for postage as I intended. I’m still figuring out the technical side, whilst also working on getting it listed and distributed on www.takealot.com.
But I am excited at the thought of finally getting published. It’s been quite a journey and throughout the last 2 years as I worked on this project, I can confess that it was only in the last 2 months that everything fell into place (there’s a lot to be said for deactivating your Facebook account guys, I have achieved more in 2 months (even outside of this project) than I have all year, #UseItDontUseIt). The one sentence that sums up my feelings about this whole book is from one of my favourite documentaries, Zeitgeist:
My work is a reflection of me, but I have come to appreciate that there is a certain alchemy to creativity. This book is a great departure from my 5th book where I can honestly admit that I was just angry at the various injustices of the world, and the result was something that a lot of people could relate to, but one that didn’t really show the world as changeable or reflect any hope.
My very bold target with this book is to get it to best-seller status within a year, that means selling (yes selling, not giving away) 2000 copies. I’m at the mercy of the universe on this one, I’ve got my plans and a strategy for reaching this target, but every once in a while, when one believes their work to be “God-Breathed” they leave room for magic and (one of my favourite big words) My very bold target with this book is to get it to best-seller status within a year, that means selling (yes selling, not giving away) 2000 copies. I’m at the mercy of the universe on this one, I’ve got my plans and a strategy for reaching this target, but every once in a while, when one believes their work to be “God-Breathed” they leave room for magic and (one of my favourite big words) Serendipity...!
An answer to some questions:
1. When is the launch? I’m not sure, 2 people have volunteered to organize launches and one might be this November. I would like Mam’ Thuli Madonsela there so I’m not sure if her diary will allow, she played a very big role in this project and I think it would be great for her to be there. So, in short: TBC
2. How much is it? R229.00
3. What is it about? The book is actually split into 2 parts. The first one is mainly my reflections on the state of our country, and the role of black people in positions of influence. (This was previously going to be titled: I Expect More From You, based on my friend Vangile’s poem). But the title ‘To Whom Much Is Given’ is aimed at reinforcing the point that for all that has been done to get us here, we don’t have the luxury to squander it all away by buying German cars and expensive whiskey. We have a duty to our country and it’s future. Even if that just means standing up for injustices you see around you, the silence of friends is far worse than the betrayal of enemies. The second part is a motivational book about what it takes to lead (Titled: Courage and Character. What It Takes to Lead in the 21st Century). This is where I interviewed various leaders and did extensive research on the psyche and habits of great leaders. It’s not just a ‘warm-and-fuzzy’ motivational piece, I’d love to believe it’s rooted in practicality and a uniquely African perspective of leadership and the leadership needs of our country.
4. Where can we get it? At this stage, honestly from my boot. I’m hustling these books like hip-hop mixtapes. Sold the first 10 at the BMF conference and it feels SOOO cool! A more practical approach is to inbox me if you want a copy, I’ll deliver or post you a copy.
5. How can friends help? Over the next 12 months I’d like to set up talks (during seminars / conferences / training sessions / workshops or even church conferences) where I will be delivering talks on the various subjects the book covers (Leadership, Youth-Related Issues, The State of the Nation, Women, Africa, South African History, The Role of the Intelligentsia, Practical Steps to Success, etc.) and at these talks I’d like to offer delegates books as a % of my fee (i.e. 50 books + R7500 will be the fee). I’ve already received an offer to do a launch in East London, I’d like to have more of these around the country as I work towards the 2000 books target.
6. Where will the proceeds of the book be going? The African Pioneer is launching a ‘Girl Child’ program where we will be empowering underprivileged girls from across the continent, part of the proceeds from the book will go towards that. I’ve also been running a young professionals development program as part of my duties on the Skills Development portfolio for BMF. I’d like to help extend the program with the proceeds from the book.
In Closing, the rest of this note is the ‘Special Thanks’ part of my book:
I would like to thank all those interviewed (Dr Reuel Khoza, Bonang Mohale, Annelize Wepener, Advocate Thuli Madonsela, Koko Khumalo) for their invaluable contributions to this book. Thanks for your time, your wisdom and your exemplary leadership which has left a lasting impression on me as a young leader. I would also like to thank Wessel Ebersohn, Mpho Moseki, Menzi Mbatha and Mam’ Futhi Mtoba for opening doors and allowing me to gain access to the people I needed to speak to for this book.
To my unnamed elders, thank you for allowing me to challenge you, disagree with you and continuously share my views on the current issues, albeit from a young and naïve perspective at times. Your valuable advice and guidance is always welcome. I also thank Jill Bailey my matric English teacher. You saw something in me that made me believe I had the gift to write. For that I’m eternally grateful.
I would also like to thank SAAYC for their contributions towards getting this book published. I could not have done this without you, I am very grateful for the support and for believing in me.
Thanks to TMALI, UNISA, BMF, AYC and The African Pioneer for their role in educating and empowering young leaders. Special thanks goes to Miranda Strydom, Dr Maureen Tong, Mam’ Thoko Didiza, Dr Sphamandla Zondi and President Thabo Mbeki.
To Mamadou Toure and the Africa 2.0 family, thank you for opening my eyes to the world and showing me the possibilities of just how much can be achieved by young Africans when we put our minds to it, I am forever indebted to you.
I would also like to thank all the young leaders who have been by my side and from whom I’ve drawn great inspiration over the years. Mordekai Shumba, Msizi Khoza, Zoya Mabuto, Ebo Quagraine, Lindiwe Mathibela, Vangile Gantsho, Shaka Sisulu, Lucky Motsamayi, Ledile Bopape, Thuso Segopolo, Sthembiso Khanyile, Busani Ngcaweni, Langa Manqele, Modise Moiloanyane, Zibu Mthiyane, Zazi Makapela, Millicent Maroga, Dale September, Xolisa Gaca, Zazi Nxele, Tebogo Tamenti, Nthabeleng Likotsi, Matsi Modise, Thulani Fakude, Neliswa Fente, S’onqoba Maseko, Khwezi Kondile, Zamantungwa Khumalo, Roy Morrison, Don Ndaba, Qiniso Mazubane, Flo Mokale, Richard Roodt, Obakeng Leepile, Oupa Melato, Patson Malisa, Khaya Dlanga, Sekgobola Thobakgale, Sethu Madonda, Mashilo Masemola, Trevor Tambo, Thulani Mbatha, Patrick Mashegwana, Sandile Mtshali, Senanu Apatu, Miss Bhoza Mphela and last but not least, the amazing highflyer Vumi Msweli. I would also like to thank all the African youth leaders that have contributed to my growth and those that have hosted me in their homes across the continent: Cornelius Adjetey (Ghana), Omomeda Ashofor (Nigeria), Michael Ige (Ghana), Navigue Konate (Ivory Coast), Mshindi Issaya (Tanzania), Nelson Tugume (Uganda), Imagwe Jude (Nigeria), Girma Tsedalu & Seife Tadelle (Ethiopia) Ugoh Nwanya and the PYU leadership in Sudan.
Special thanks go to the ‘Progressive Narratives’, for the intense debates, enlightening views, humour and continued commitment to finding sustainable solutions. Shandu ka Ndaba, your efforts are commendable, your significant role in my own growth has not gone unnoticed.
To Malaika wa Azania, the poet Lebo Mashile has a poem that states: ‘In my tribe we raise each other, I have never been a child.’ As young as you are, you have raised me. You continue to make me so proud.
But most of all I would like to thank my sister and comrade Slindile Didiza who has been there through the best and worst, our 2am conversations about the state of our country and our role in its future have not been in vain.
Ozithobayo
Mbali ka Jama
Oh, and before I forget the dedication:
Dedicated to my parents, who did the very best they could. Then my son Uhuru, my ultimate reason for being. Finally to uMduduzi no Mthokozisi wami. Ngakulethelwa uSimakade Mvelase,
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