Reading helps you to be able to tell your own story in your own unique way.
So said Gaynor Johnson, head of innovation at software development company, Swipe iX, who was a guest speaker at the College of Cape Town’s literacy day.
A group of Alexander Sinton High School pupils and their English teacher, Shamiemah Pretorius, were invited to the event, which was held on Wednesday October 12 at the institution’s Open Learning Centre.
The event also saw author and academic support lecturer at the college, Hidayat Adams, launch his third short stories anthology, A Beautiful Life and Other Short Stories.
Another speaker at the event, national spokesperson and proportional representative (PR) councillor of Al-Jamaah, Shameemah Salie, said it is crucial to become active, involved members of one’s community.
“It is also vital to make our voices heard on matters that affect everybody,” she added.
Zethu Mqikela, an N3 motor mechanics student at the Athlone campus of the College of Cape Town, opened proceedings with a reading of two of her poems.
While introducing the author, Shana Cupido, a lecturer at the Crawford campus, said Mr Adams writes about relevant, topical issues.
“Mr Adams’ short stories always convey an important message, whether it be about the power of faith, the consequences of our actions, or the rewards of kindness. His stories carry unpredictable endings, which is why I love reading his books,” she added.
Ms Pretorius said she and her pupils enjoyed “every moment of the event”, and was grateful that they could help themselves to free books and magazines.
Annelie Carstens, head of the education and training faculty at the college, said Mr Adams is a wonderful writer.
“He has the ability to transport readers to new, fantastical worlds, or to remind them that many of our fellow human beings live in poverty and sorrow. Although his vocabulary can be challenging, it elevates his writing and at the same time, helps to expand the reader’s own word bank. He is a true asset to the college and we wish him great success with his writing career,” Ms Carstens said.
A Beautiful Life and Other Short Stories is available to buy from Mr Adams at 066 216 3966 or All About Food in Ruth Road, Rylands, or call 076 388 7441. Visit www.hidayatscorner.co.za and www.facebook.com/hidayatscorner for more information about the author, his stories and poems.