From journalling as a young girl in Port St Johns to becoming an award-winning author whose work has reached international audiences, Sinathi Mpukwana is using her voice to shape young minds and preserve indigenous language through storytelling.
The 32-year-old teacher, now based in KuGompo City, is a multifaceted creative, a poet, translator, transcriber, typist, editor and author, who has published five books to date, including poetry, a novel, two children’s books and an IsiMpondo title co-authored with Mzoli Mavimbela and Bonginkosi “Umntwan’omgquba” Tatemntwini.
Mpukwana completed her Bachelor of Education degree at the University of Fort Hare in 2017, a foundation that continues to influence her work both in the classroom and in her writing.
Her love for writing began in an unexpected space, social media.
“I started writing on Facebook and my former lecturer, Dr Noncedo Khewu, believed that I could write a book. She connected me with publishers and that’s how it all started,” she said.
Since then, her work has earned widespread recognition. Mpukwana is an SA Literary Award (SALA) winner for her debut children’s book Unakho, and in 2023, her poetry was showcased internationally at the Belfast International Arts Festival in Ireland.
Although she began writing poetry in 2019, Mpukwana’s focus has since shifted toward children’s literature, a decision deeply rooted in her profession.
“As someone who works with children, I saw that they lack an isiXhosa foundation and thought that, as a writer, I should intervene.
“From 2022 onwards, I write for children. They are close to my heart,” she said.
Her latest book, Isikolo Sam, is an interactive “all-in-one” workbook designed to develop reading, comprehension, writing, counting and drawing skills.
Through storytelling and guided activities, children are encouraged to reflect on their own school environments while engaging with the author’s experiences.
“It’s about my primary school, and pupils are expected to express themselves by writing about their own schools, identifying similarities and differences,” she said.
“There are pictures for those who cannot read yet, and questions that help them tell their own stories.”
Beyond academics, the book carries a practical and social purpose.
“Young readers become more observant; they get to know every corner of their school. Even in situations where a child might go missing, they are able to describe their school and identify key people such as the principal,” she said.
Mpukwana also highlights the book as a bonding tool.
“When I see parents and children connecting through my books, my heart melts. It becomes more than reading, it’s about building relationships.”
Her passion for writing in isiXhosa is driven by urgency as much as love.
“Our native language is slowly perishing. Many children and even adults struggle to read and write in isiXhosa. If we don’t expose children early, we will have a generation that cannot communicate in their own language,” she said.
Despite the challenges of limited readership and access to schools, she remains committed.
“Even if only five to 10 people buy the book and learn something, I am satisfied. It’s about the nation at the end of the day. I don’t do this for money or fame. Ndilithandazwe (I pray), I love isintu nenkcubeko. It is within me.”
One of her proudest achievements has been giving back to her roots by honouring Lupapasi Junior Secondary School, where her journey began.
“They groomed me into the person I am today. They produced an award-winning author, they deserve their flowers,” she said.
Balancing her many roles, including running the “Mntwana Womntu Omnyama Unakho” clothing brand, requires discipline and passion.
“It’s tiring, but the economy forces us to have multiple streams of income. I manage my time well, and because I love what I do, it doesn’t feel impossible.”
At her core, Mpukwana remains a writer who finds joy in the process.
“I have always journaled from a young age. Writing comes naturally to me, more than speaking. Doing what you love keeps you going effortlessly,” she said.
Her message to aspiring writers is clear and heartfelt:
“Just do it, don’t think twice. Write because you love it, not for gain. If anything comes from it, that will be a bonus. Remember, mntwana womntu omnyama unakho (African child, you can do it).”
As she continues to inspire through her work, Mpukwana is preserving identity, strengthening language and empowering the next generation, one book at a time.
