Rivombo wants to promote culture of reading

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Multi-award-winning local author Jubilee Rivombo from Bungeni has turned her passion for books into a catalyst for change as she champions the cause to foster a reading culture within her community. In a world often dominated by fleeting digital distractions, Rivombo promotes the profound joys and benefits of delving into the written word. In 2020, she established a publishing company called Khanimamba Hikhensile to promote reading among both young and old people.

“I continue to write my own books and help other aspiring writers to get their books published. I do community outreach by hosting book-signing events where I open a dialogue on the importance of writing for expression, survival, and as a coping mechanism,” she said. She had a collection of poems, titled “The Place Between the Pit and the Palace”, published in 2018, which earned her recognition in literary circles. The book speaks passionately about the place of disillusionment that every dreamer faces, when one is so close and yet so far from reaching their goals.

“I am passionate about the power of storytelling in addressing societal issues, particularly those affecting women and vulnerable communities. I have four books waiting for covers; they have not been printed yet,” she said. Last month, she marked the end of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) by hosting a book-signing event at Maponya Mall’s Lifestyle Books store in Soweto.

Rivombo, celebrated for her literary prowess, has not only carved a niche for herself in the literary world but has also become a vocal advocate against GBV. “Writing and participating in outreach programmes have been passions of mine since I was a young girl. I have over 13 years of outreach experience,” she said.

By: Thembi Siaga

Thembi Siaga started as an intern during 2021. He assisted with video photography and editing. He also produced numerous small documentaries, focusing on the Vhembe region and its people. Currently he works as a freelance journalist, covering stories in the Elim area.

Thembi studied at the Tshwane University of Technology, where he completed his diploma in Journalism in 2021.