NC high school author launches second book
NORTHERN Cape High School was recently abuzz with excitement as 15-year-old Grade 10 learner and author, Mosimanegape Leeuw, unveiled his second literary creation, “Behind the Dark”.
The event marked Mosimanegape’s poetic debut and drew a distinguished audience, including guests from Mosimanegape’s hometown of Camden, Kuruman.
The book, a collection of evocative poems, owes its existence to the support of Unamadla Vilakazi, who fully funded the project through the Unamadla Foundation, with the support of her mother, Onnalena Vilakazi.
The launch was attended by esteemed guests, including senior officials from the Northern Cape Department of Education; Yolanda Slade, the department’s Quality Learning and Teaching Campaign (QLTC) provincial co-ordinator; Portia Phuzi, chief director for examinations and assessments at the department; Unamandla Foundation queens and kings; the school collective led by principal Owen de Plooy; learner representatives; the school governing board; parents; and Olebogeng High School representatives from Camden.
The guests were also treated to a soul-stirring performance by wellknown DJ KG Smallz.
“Behind the Dark” stands as a beacon and guiding light, reminding teenagers that they are not alone on their life journeys.
This captivating anthology of poetry bravely illuminates the struggles faced by teenagers, which are often hidden beneath the surface.
With each verse, this collection becomes a guiding star, leading teenagers towards a path of self-discovery, self-love and, ultimately, their own unwavering resilience.
Mosimanegape developed an interest in poetry at the tender age of 12 but had to give up his craft due to his family dynamics.
At the launch of “Behind the Dark” earlier this month, Mosimanegape had the guests eating out of the palm of his hand and he expressed his gratitude to everyone who made both his books possible, including those who purchased them.
“I wish for this collaboration to continue,” he said.
He explained that the heartfelt sincerity in “Behind the Dark” reaches out to those “warriors” battling the shadows of depression and anxiety, offering solace and strength in the darkest of hours.
“Within its profound verses, it illustrates the discovery of the beauty of resilience as it blooms amidst adversity,” he explained.
“The poems are filled with raw emotion and undeniable truth, which creates a sanctuary where readers can find solace, understanding and hope.
“Every page teems with motivation, urging young hearts to rise above their fears and face the world with unwavering courage. Through the power of introspection, these poems unlock the potential for healing, growth and self-acceptance.
“In the depths of struggle, they reveal the glimmering shards of hope that dance in the vast expanse of the soul.”
In his motivation to his peers and everyone reading the book, Leeuw encouraged them to never give up as there is “light behind the dark”.