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UFS Student Publishes Book on Love and Life in the African Context

12 April 2022 | Story Anthony Mthembu | Photo Supplied

“The reason I write is because I know that there will be a time when people such as my grandmother and her peers will not be around to tell us stories by word of mouth, hence we need to preserve the stories they tell us in black and white,” said Siphilangenkosi Dlamini.

The fourth-year Governance and Political Transformation student at the University of the Free State (UFS) is the author of a book, titled Magic and Other Authentic Experiences. The book is a compilation of 13 short stories that follow the lives of a vast pool of characters as they experience chaos, love, and tragedy, among other things.

Some of the stories highlighted in the book

The chapter ‘The House on Marloth Street’ delineates the story of a young woman named Gracious, who is forced into prostitution to earn her keep by an elder in her life. The book also sheds light on the intricacies of young love through a story titled ‘The Suicide Note’. This story follows the lives of two characters named Menzi and Lulu, whose lives reach a devastating end because of secrets, deceit, and forbidden love. However, one of Dlamini’s favourite stories in the book is titled ‘Girl on the Bus’, which is based on a real-life occurrence. “It was one of those rare experiences where you meet someone and they are full of life,” he stated.

The book is ultimately a manifestation of Dlamini’s love of literature. In fact, he argues that “these stories are a portrayal of different experiences of young people stepping into the world and trying to navigate life, love, and relationships”. This can be seen in the first story in the book, titled ‘Magic on Campus’, which is an account of Dlamini trying to pursue a young woman he met on campus, and highlighting how she made him feel.

Making strides through literature

Dlamini’s authentic storytelling led to three of his stories being selected as part of the curriculum for the English Academic Literature module, which is included in most faculties at the UFS. As many of the students at the UFS are exposed to this work, he states that, “I would love this book to symbolise the importance of telling African stories”. Although Dlamini is making strides with this book, he is still working on expanding the book’s reach. “I’m emailing bookstores every day, trying to get the book into bookstores,” he said.

Future endeavours for the young author

As someone who strongly believes in the preservation of African literature and the portrayal of African love stories in their most authentic context, Dlamini is currently working on his next project. The project would count as his first novel and is a sequel to the stories from Magic and Other Authentic Experiences. In this novel, Dlamini explores a world in which the various characters are placed in a similar setting, and the experiences they would have if their lives were to intersect.

The book is currently available for purchasing at R100 per copy. Those interested in purchasing a copy may contact Siphilangenkosi Dlamini on +27 84 374 0032 or 2018245304@ufs4life.ac.za.

Magic and Other Authentic Experiences book cover

News Archive

The UFS #FaceOfFacebook

2014-11-14

At the UFS, we are committed to our Human Project, which sets the standard for good behaviour and care. It reaches internally to our students and externally to our prospective students and our communities.

And so, the Kovsies #FaceOfFacebook was born from the need to communicate with students and thus become a virtual friend. Yearly auditions are held to choose the new face representing the UFS on Facebook. The successful candidate holds the title #FaceOfFacebook for the next 12 months, attending events and filming short video clips to post on our Facebook page.

We had a quick chat with our current #FaceOfFacebook, Katleho 'Blue' Letube …

Who is Blue?

"Media mistress, fashion phenom, diva divine darling, superwoman and lover of life.
I was born in a small town called Bothaville, where my mom and her side of the family are living . I started pre-school there, moved and completed my schooling career at St. Andrew's High School (a very proud S aint) in Welkom. That is where my dad and his side of the family are living . Also, I am a proud resident of House NJ vd Merwe and I am studying Governance and Political Transformation."

How do you balance everything you do?

"It's relatively easy for me to strike a balance between my academics, social life and leadership duties, because Jesus is at the centre of all that I do. He is my guide and my strength. However, I also take it upon myself to prioritise. Although I am a '' liker of things'' , I ensure that my academics are the priority and everything else falls into place perfectly."

Are you dating someone?

"Hahaha, wouldn't you just love to know? Well, yes I am off-market. I'm completely taken and I'm happy."

What drives you?

"I always feel the urge to expand myself by working harder, smarter, stronger, and more efficiently. If there's an extra mile to go, the strength inside me draws out the willingness and ability to go that extra mile."

What is it like being the #FaceOfFacebook?

"I have been privileged to be entrusted with this duty and I carry it out with pride and passion. Being the #FaceOfFacebook means you get to meet a new face on campus almost every day, because people recognis e you and want to know you better. This opportunity has opened many doors for me and has equipped me with skills that have allowed me to grow as an individual. Therefore I will forever be grateful."

Where are you going to be in five years from now?

"Five years from now I would like to see myself as a better person both personally and professionally, in a respectable and reputed position earned through my hard work and skills. However, do not be surprised if you see me as a presenter on Vuzu.TV."

Advice to prospective students?

"Do not be that pupil who enrolled at this awesome institute and never takes advantage of its kindness. The University of The Free State is an institution that offers an excessive amount of opportunities to students. Step up and get out of your comfort zone. See an opportunity, seek the opportunity and cease it. You are at a university that provides you with a platform for you to grow."

What's your favourite colour?

My favourite colours are Black, White and Blue – hahaha!!

Kovsies can keep in touch:

Facebook: Katlego Blue Letube
Twitter: @Princess_blue31
Instagram: katlegoletube

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