BY GCWALISILE MHLABANE
MANZINI– Eswatini is set to welcome its first people’s story project, The Making of Avela, a powerful new book by Avela Ndabeni that celebrates resilience, purpose, faith and the belief that a person’s beginning does not have to define their ending.
Authored by Ndabeni and published by Priscilla & Tom Publishing, the book chronicles a personal journey shaped by hardship, discipline, faith and community, while seeking to inspire readers to believe in themselves and the possibilities that lie ahead.
More than a memoir, The Making of Avela is positioned as a people-centred literary project aimed at encouraging a stronger culture of reading and storytelling in Eswatini.
At its core is a message of hope and transformation, particularly for young people who may find themselves defined by difficult circumstances.
Ndabeni said the book was inspired by his desire to share his journey while reminding others that their circumstances do not have to determine their future.
“I want people to understand that where you come from does not have to determine where you are going. Your beginning does not have to define your ending,” said Ndabeni.
The author believes that local stories have an important role to play in inspiring communities and creating a platform where EmaSwati can see themselves, their experiences and their aspirations reflected in literature.
He said sharing personal experiences can also give hope to people who may be facing similar challenges.
“Our stories matter. There is so much power in sharing what we have lived through because someone else may find courage, hope or purpose through our experiences,” he said.
Through The Making of Avela, Ndabeni highlights the importance of discipline, faith and community in overcoming adversity and pursuing purpose.
The project also seeks to encourage aspiring writers and readers to recognise that meaningful stories can emerge from everyday experiences and that local voices deserve to be heard.
“This is bigger than me. I want The Making of Avela to remind people that every story matters and that every person has something meaningful to share,” Ndabeni said.
The book’s message comes at a time when encouraging young people to read, write and express themselves remains important in building creativity, confidence and a deeper appreciation for local literature.
The official launch of The Making of Avela is scheduled for September 5 2026 at Freshly Ground The Salt n Pepper.
The launch will also coincide with Ndabeni’s birthday, turning the occasion into a double celebration of both his personal milestone and the beginning of his literary journey.
The event will provide an opportunity for readers, supporters, friends and members of the community to celebrate the book and engage with the story behind its creation.
As The Making of Avela prepares to reach readers, the project seeks to leave behind more than a published book. It aims to encourage EmaSwati to believe in their journeys, value their experiences and understand that difficult beginnings do not have to determine the destination.
With its message that “your beginning does not have to define your ending,” The Making of Avela stands as a celebration of resilience and a call for more local stories to be told, read and remembered.
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(Courtesy Pic)
