North author redefines African narrative through ink and action

The Citizen

8 hours ago

A Pretoria writer is encouraging his community to embrace their individual African stories and journeys to share collective progress, claim their identity and live a life filled with hope.
Using his book, Voices of the African Gamechangers, as a platform for thinkers, he hopes the youth can use it as a beacon to showcase what's possible for every young person in areas such as Mabopane.
Nkagare Makhudu said he was not in the spirit of just writing books, but is rewriting perceptions, reclaiming identity, and redefining Africa's story, one page at a time.
Makhudu described himself as a man deeply rooted in values, community, and identity.
'I have always believed in the power of stories. Not just stories we are told, but stories we tell ourselves, and those we choose to tell the world,' he said.
Makhudu found his voice in writing.
Voices of the African Gamechangers is Makhudu's first official book, published last month, after a draft of the book was initially self-published in August 2023.
Though the book is a collaborative project, Makhudu's chapter reveals personal experiences of overcoming doubt, navigating professional spaces, and finding a deeper sense of purpose.
The book offers a selection of essays and reflections by dynamic African thinkers, entrepreneurs, and change agents reshaping their communities and the world.
'Writing this chapter allowed me to reflect deeply on my journey, not just professionally, but personally.
'It's easy to be defined by titles and positions, but my story is really about resilience, community, and the courage to create a different reality,' he said.
'I want young people from Mabopane, Itsoseng, Bethanie and other places to see themselves in my journey. Not because it's exceptional, but because it's possible.'
His message to aspiring leaders is simple: Start where you are.
'You don't need money to make an impact. You need vision, consistency, and a heart for people.'
Looking ahead, Makhudu is more focused on legacy than accolades. He is passionate about succession planning and is already mentoring a new generation of changemakers.
'We cannot afford to be the last generation of torchbearers. We must pass it on, not when we retire, but now.'
Born in the village of Bethanie in North West, he was raised in Itsoseng near Mahikeng, and later rooted in Mabopane before settling in Mountain View.
His journey is a reflection of the South African spirit being grounded in struggle, lifted by purpose, and driven by hope.
Growing up in communities where opportunity was scarce and hope often suspended, he understands the structural and psychological barriers faced by many young Africans.
'Too many of us have internalised the idea that success looks like something Western, something imported.
'But the African story is full of innovation, intelligence, and inspiration. We just need to give it a platform,' said Makhudu.
His work with the Morongwa Foundation focusing on youth development, leadership training, and entrepreneurship particularly among marginalised communities, is an expression of this philosophy.
'I want young people to see themselves as capable, valuable, and powerful. And sometimes, all it takes is one voice, one story, to unlock that potential.
'There are more stories to tell, mine, yours or ours,' he said.
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