Lebitso Ramphore, a University of Pretoria (UP) graduate has published a motivational book to inspire people during these unprecedented times. The book, titled Be Still, is a journey to divine fulfilment and inner peace. It is a memoir about Ramphore’s trip to discover why it is important to be still.

Ramphore, who hails from Rustenburg in the North West Province, graduated with a Bachelor of Commerce degree in 2006. She says because “UP is a well-recognised institution in South Africa, I did not struggle to secure my first job as an intern, even before graduation”.

She says her inspiration came from a message she received when she was hasty to get answers from God – answers about the void she felt inside. “I could only get answers once I decided to be still,” says the wordsmith.

Unpacking the details of the book, Ramphore says she felt a strong urge to pause and listen to her inner voice – it was at this point that her words started to flow. She says she would wake up at 3am to start writing what was being said to her through her inner voice.

Coincidentally, her family has a history of spirituality. “My grandfather was a priest at a missionary church in Phokeng near Rustenburg. I came to a point where I was asking myself crucial questions about my existence and the spiritual part of me. My grandparents would come to me in my dreams repeatedly. It was also evident to me that my material acquisitions can be lost at any time. What is important is to listen to the inner voice or intuition whenever it whispers to us, that voice, however, loves stillness – not strife.”  

The new author says the book is targeted at the modern generation, especially during the times we are living in, or anyone looking for fulfilment beyond what can be accumulated monetarily. She says spirituality goes beyond religion and race, and the book is for anyone who believes in a higher power – or transcendence.

Not only is Ramphore an author, she also owns a holistic beauty and wellness brand called Ostibel Africa. Their products are made from indigenous, natural and organic ingredients.

Given the current conditions, Ramphore says it is important for one to take stock of life and slow down. “The book touches on various subjects that we all encounter in life, and it is written from a modern perspective which includes the impact of social media.” As challenging as it was to write the book, it was also gratifying at the same time, she says.

The young author advises budding writers to research the publishing industry if this is the route they want to take. “I am a firm believer that, as South Africans, we need to write our stories in own our voices. Every industry has its challenges, but if you believe in your story there will be creative ways to tell it.”

Be Still retails at R220 and is available at Bargain Books, Takealot and as an e-book on Amazon.

For more information about her book, visit www.lebitsoramphore.co.za