Hilma Nalupe 

Jobina Shovaleka (13) has stepped into the literary world with the launch of her debut book, ‘The Aliens’, which was officially unveiled last week. 

Her journey as a young author began in grade 3, when she started writing during aftercare while waiting for her mother to pick her up. 

Driven by her fascination with mystery, mystical creatures, and adventure, she chose aliens as the subject of her story. 

Although she completed the manuscript in just a few months, it took four years before her dream of seeing it published became a reality. 

Now in grade 7, she looks back on the experience with pride and joy. 

“My favourite part about writing my book was coming up with different characters and storylines. 

I got stuck many times while writing, but I didn’t want to give up on my dreams. When I saw my book printed for the first time, I was filled with joy and excitement,” Shovaleka shared. 

Her mother, Naveuye Hamutumwa, recalled the moment her daughter first shared her dream of becoming an author. 

“One day, she came home from school and said, ‘Mommy, what if I write a book and become a young author one day?’ She kept to that, and now she is a young author. I am so happy, honoured and proud to be her mother. I pray that she continues to write,” she said. 

Shovaleka cites Rachel Renée Russell, author of ‘Dog Diaries’, as one of her inspirations. 

She has already set her sights on creating a sequel to ‘The Aliens’. 

The launch of her first book has been celebrated by her friends and classmates, who share in her excitement. 

More than just a personal achievement, Shovaleka hopes her story will encourage other young dreamers to pursue their passions despite challenges. 

With the release of ‘The Aliens’, she has proven that determination, creativity, and perseverance can turn even the most ambitious childhood dream into reality. 

-hilmanalupe@gmail.com