In a celebration of African talent spanning various fields, The African Child Your Time Is Now (ACYTIN) organisation, led by the acclaimed entrepreneur, author, and international speaker Anthea Thyssen-Ambursley, recently honoured a budding author, Kudakwashe Meja, a fourth-year Radiography student from the Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria. 

African Child Your Time Is Now (ACYTIN) organisation, led by the acclaimed entrepreneur, author, and international speaker Anthea Thyssen-Ambursley, recently honoured a budding author, Kudakwashe Meja, a fourth-year Radiography student from the Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria.

 The burgeoning Zimbabwean-born writer, Kudakwashe Meja, was bestowed with the prestigious African Honoree Authors award from ACYTIN. The recognition was extended to acknowledge Kudakwashe Meja’s literary contributions through the books “The Paragon” & “The Journey Of A Thousand Miles”. This momentous event marked a significant milestone in the student’s journey and offered an opportunity to connect with fellow talented authors within the African literary community.

UP's student, Kudakwashe Meja radiates pride as he holds his well-deserved African Honoree Author's award from ACYTIN

The accolade from ACYTIN served as a powerful validation of Kudakwashe Meja’s work as an author and connecting him with Fellow Wordsmiths “The event’s most remarkable facet emerged in the form of the chance to interface and engage with fellow honoree authors hailing from diverse African nations. The literary symposium provided a conduit for sharing narratives, exchanging insights, and potentially collaborating on future creative endeavors. These exchanges were not only enlightening but also enriched my perspective on storytelling techniques unique to various African cultures”, added Kudakwashe Meja

The ACYTIN award ceremony was not just an affirmation of talent; it was a hub of inspiration and creativity.  “The dynamic conversations and discussions among the authors sparked a fresh wellspring of ideas, motivating Meja to explore previously untapped themes and narratives within African literature. This enthusiasm ultimately gave rise to new and upcoming book titled a Shackled Feet Meant to Flee".
 

Cultural enrichment was a prominent feature of the ACYTIN event. Vibrant cultural performances showcased the diverse tapestry of African traditions, music and dance. These first-hand experiences offered a deeper insight into the rich heritage of the continent, serving as an invaluable source of creative inspiration for Kudakwashe Meja and other attendees.

The ACYTIN event also facilitated invaluable networking opportunities. Prominent figures from the literary industry, including publishers, agents, and editors were present. For Meja, this exposure was especially beneficial, enabling connections with professionals and paving the way for potential collaborations, as well as broader recognition of their work.

“This recognition by ACYTIN has made an impact on my writing journey. Being acknowledged as an honoree author has not only boosted my confidence but it has also reaffirmed my dedication to telling African stories that resonate with readers both within and beyond the continent”.