The Pally Creative Empowerment Foundation (PCEF) recently hosted a graduation and awards’ ceremony to honour the first group of writers to complete its Writers Workshop programme.
Founded by Victoria Haihambo in memory of her late husband, the non-profit organisation is dedicated to fostering the growth of young writers, creatives, and entrepreneurs in Namibia.
She said the eight-week workshop, which ran from 14 October to 7 December, catered for aspiring writers aged between 18 and 35.
Under the guidance of expert mentors from Namibia, Zimbabwe and South Africa, participants delved into the art of storytelling, learning about character development, plot construction, setting creation, and the intricacies of the publishing world.
“Out of 12 participants, eight completed the programme, and presented their original short story manuscripts to a panel of judges. The esteemed judging panel comprised Chima Nwachukwu (Nigeria), Pfavayi Fortunate Nyakudya (Zimbabwe) and Fungayi Antony Sox (Zimbabwe), all prominent figures in the literary arena,” she said.
The highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of the ‘Best Storyteller’ award to 19-year-old Aina Amunyela from Windhoek.
Her manuscript, ‘The Cold Between Us,’ a chilling psychological domestic thriller that explores themes of betrayal, trauma, and survival, deeply impressed the judges. As part of the award, Amunyela’s book will be published free, with all publishing expenses covered by the Pally Creative Empowerment Foundation.
“The Pally Creative Empowerment Foundation is proud to support young writers in sharing their stories and looks forward to empowering more creatives in the future,” Haihambo said.
She added that the runner-up was Ndinelao Ndeyapo Nikodemus, a 23-year-old from Oshakati, for her manuscript titled Homecoming.
Amunyela (19) told Youth Corner that, she writes inspirational, sweet poetry and looks forward to becoming a published author.
“Well, The Cold Between Us is a domestic thriller blended with psychological suspense that explores the depths of psychological manipulation, the impact of unresolved trauma and dangerous secrets that threaten a once-perfect idyllic marriage. It narrates a powerful story of a vulnerable woman fighting for survival and freedom in a suffocating marriage that turned into a nightmare,” she said.
“This award means so much to me, I don’t think I can fully express the immense gratitude I feel at the moment. This award has just opened the door, the last push that I needed to kick-start my writing career. On a personal level, it means I get to share my story with the world, and whatever review I get from my readers, will definitely grow and enhance my morale.
“Professionally, I also get to market this book and treat it as my very own, first of many products. I have an opportunity to put myself out there as a published author and receive recognition that will shape my writing career,” she said.
Amunyela further said, she has not drawn inspiration from many authors. But she enjoys Colleen Hoover’s writing style and thinks it has influenced her style, especially when it comes to conveying emotions and matters of the heart.
Haihambo’s descriptive style and consistency have also grown on her, as an upcoming author.
“I would wholeheartedly love to thank the entire PCEF team for bringing my visions into the spotlight.
I have grown so much from this workshop and I would love all aspiring authors to apply next year for the second cohort.
This is a life-changing opportunity for any Namibian writer looking to turn their writing dreams into reality.
Let’s continue inspiring and growing the next generation of African storytellers,” she said.
-pmukokobi@nepc.com.na