BY GCWALISILE MHLABANE
MANZINI – Eswatini author Avela Ndabeni has turned his personal journey into a debut book that tackles abandonment, identity and men’s mental health while encouraging young men to confront emotional struggles rather than suffer in silence.
Titled The Making of Avela, the book draws from Ndabeni’s experiences growing up and the challenges he faced while navigating abandonment and questions of identity.
The book goes beyond recounting his personal story, using his experiences to explore the lasting impact that growing up without a father can have on a boy’s emotional wellbeing and sense of belonging.
Ndabeni said he wrote the book with young men who have experienced similar struggles in mind.
“This book is for every boy who grew up without a father, who felt abandoned, who cried in silence,” Ndabeni said.
“If my story can give one young man permission to speak up and seek healing, then my purpose is fulfilled.”
The book also highlights the role of love, community parenting and faith in helping young people overcome difficult experiences and rebuild their lives.
Ndabeni’s message is that painful experiences do not have to determine a person’s future, particularly when individuals have access to supportive people and environments.
The Making of Avela was officially launched on Saturday, September 19, 2026, at Freshly Ground at Salt N’ Pepper in Matsapha.
The occasion brought together people who have played a role in Ndabeni’s journey, including his former teachers, friends from Ngomane High School and Manzini Central High School, family members and Pastor Stanley Mkhwanazi of First Church of the Nazarene in Mpolonjeni.
Pastor Mkhwanazi offered a prayer and words of encouragement during the event.
Thando Ntshangase hosted the programme, while Temandla Sibandze and her band provided live music. Poet Tea Bag also delivered a poem dedicated to Ndabeni.
In his vote of thanks, Ndabeni expressed gratitude to those who supported the publication of the book, with special appreciation extended to PurePress Eswatini, which supplied copy paper, printing materials and toners.
He also thanked the management of Freshly Ground at Salt N’ Pepper for hosting the event, as well as the photographers, ushers and support team who contributed to the programme.
The Making of Avela is available for E279.99 at MB Stationers in Manzini.
Copies can also be ordered through WhatsApp on (+27) 83 562 7381 or avela_0509@icloud.com. The book is expected to be available at the National Library soon.
Through his debut publication, Ndabeni places his own experiences at the centre of a wider conversation about abandonment and emotional wellbeing, particularly among young men who may find it difficult to speak openly about their struggles.
