"Hy is ‘n onstuitbare krag met passie en spoed. ‘n Hardloop-entoesias met ‘n onwrikbare liefde vir die sport en vind vreugde in elke tree." Foto: Verskaf (Marais Nell) In ‘n vorige artikel (https://www.thegotoguy.co.za/community-space/schools-youth-and-sport/lihann-kemp-van-geloof-tot-goud)het ons die Potchefstroom gemeenskap bekendgestel aan Lihann Kemp, ‘n leerder van Laerskool Baillie Park wat van 10de plek na eerste op die podium gegaan het met sy landloop. Dit het toewyding, vasberadenheid en deursettingsvermoë geverg en Lihann het gewys waarvan hy gemaak is toe hy as kampioen gekroon is in sy ouderdomsgroep tydens die SA Landloop Byeenkoms in 2023. 2024 doelwit Nou het Lihann sy oog op die SA Skole Kampioenskappe wat van 24 - 26 Maart vanjaar in Limpopo plaasvind. Lihann het omtrent uit sy blokke gekom die afgelope paar maande en het tydens atletiek byeenkomste behoorlik geskitter toe hy goue medaljes ingepalm het met sy indrukwekkende tye tydens die 1200m item by drie verskillende byeenkomste. Daar is slegs drie byeenkomste oor voor die SA Skole Kampioenskappe. Die JB Marks byeenkoms, wat volgende week plaasvind, is die eerste van hierdie drie. Die Kenneth Kaunda Distrik byeenkoms vind die 23ste Februarie plaas en as hy daar deurdring, sal hy die 8ste Maart aan die Noordwes byeenkoms deelneem; waar slegs die eerste twee plekke kwalifiseer vir SA's. Gelukkig vind al hierdie byeenkomste by die McArthur Stadion in Potchefstroom plaas wat verblyf, brandstof en kos-verwante uitgawes spaar. Ons het met Lihann se ma, Stefani, gesels om so bietjie meer inligting en agtergrond te kry. Wat is nodig om sy droom waar te maak? Sy praat met groot trots van haar seun en noem dat sy enigiets sal doen om sy droom waar te maak. “Al kan ek dit nie self doen nie, moet ek my bes gee om dit vir hom moontlik te maak”, vertel Stefani vasberade. Maar om sy droom te verwesenlik, het hulle finansiële ondersteuning nodig. Dit is waar pre-borge in berekening kom. Pre-borge en hoe dit werk Pre-borge is basies soos ‘n pledge en lede van die gemeenskap ‘borg’ vooraf ‘n bedrag. Die oomblik wat hy dan kwalifiseer, laat weet Stefani die donnateurs en stuur vir hulle die bankbesonderhede. Die grootste uitgawes vir die SA Skole Kampioenskap in Polokwane sal die brandstof en veblyf wees en dit is juis hoekom hulle tans opsoek is na nog pre-borge. Tydens verlede jaar se fondsinsameling was daar slegs twee borge wie Stefani geken het, die res het van anonieme gemeenskapslede af gekom. Adele Broodryk, wie tweede in die 2023 Comrades geëindig het, het ook ‘n bydrae gemaak. Elke R100 en R50 wat geskenk is, het bygedra tot die voorreg wat hulle gehad het om na Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) te reis sodat Lihann kon deelneem.  Foto: Verskaf So bietjie agtergrond oor Lihann Ten spyte van die omstandighede waarin hy groot geword het, verbaas hy sy ma daagliks en is hy ‘n goeie leerder by die skool. Hy laat ook nie toe dat die dag se gebeure sy fokus kelder tydens oefening of ‘n byeenkoms nie. “As hy opdaag vir sy wedloop, dan dáág hy op!” Op die vraag “Waar kom sy liefde vir langafstande vandaan?”, het Stefani net gelag en genoem dat nie sy of Lihann se [biologiese] pa hardloop of atleties is nie, maar Lihann se oom het so effense atletiese trek in hom. Asof die drie-keer-’n-week se atletiek oefening en landloop hom nie besig genoeg hou nie, speel hy nog rugby ook.  Wanneer het hy begin hardloop? Hy het in die middel van 2021 begin met landloop en in 2022 het hy SA's toe gegaan waar hy 10de geëindig het. Met die 2023 seisoen het hulle geweet wat om te verwag en Lihann het van die begin af voluit gegaan - soveel so dat hy op die ou end die SA Landloop Byeenkoms in sy ouderdomsgroep gewen het. Meneer André Olivier, ‘n Graad 7 onderwyser by Laerskool Baillie Park, het Lihann se talent raakgesien en voorgestel dat hy 1200m ook probeer. Meneer André is nie net sy afrigter nie, maar ook ‘n groot motiveerder en mentor. Beide Lihann en Stefani is ewe dankbaar dat hy hom afrig.  Nadat ons met Stefani gesels het, was alle aandag op die man van die uur gevestig. Waar het jou liefde vir langafstande begin? Dit het bloot met ‘n vraag van Stefani af begin: “Wil jy langafstande doen?” en met ‘n “Ja, ek sal dit probeer” het die hardloop-gogga vir Lihann gebyt en sedertdien gaan hy van krag tot krag en verbeter sy tyd met elke byeenkoms. Foto: Verskaf Byeenkoms voorbereidings “Ons het dae wat ons hard oefen en ander dae wat ons dit rustig vat”, noem Lihann. ‘n Gekombineerde balans wat goed werk. Op die dag van ‘n byeenkoms of kompetisie, maak Meneer André seker hulle warm goed op. Hulle draf vir sewe minute, strek en doen hulle ritmes en deurlope voordat hulle aanmeld.  Lihann sê hy voel uitgerus en gereed vir Donderdag se byeenkoms. Dit help ook natuurlik dat hy so ‘n goeie, liefdevolle ondersteuningstelsel by die huis het. Sy ma en sibbe is omtrent by elke byeenkoms en hy noem dat sy stiefpa, vir wie hy baie lief is, elke wedloop bywoon wanneer sy werksverantwoordelikhede dit toelaat. Maar wanneer Ivan Viljoen nie langs die baan kan wees nie, hardloop Lihann met hom in sy hart. Raad vir ander wat ook langafstande wil doen “Fokus op jou asemhaling, fokus op jou arms wat ook moet werk en doen die [oefen] sessie so hard as moontlik.” Dit begin by jou oefening en jy kan nie hard kompeteer as jy nie hard oefen nie. Direk, op die man af en geen doekies word omgedraai met hierdie knapie nie. Hy wéét wat gedoen moet word om te presteer - op die baan en in die klaskamer. Stokperdjies en ander aktiwiteite Op die ou end van die dag is Lihann steeds 'n Graad 5 seun wat daarvan hou om bal te skop saam met sy maats. Wanneer hy nie om die veld snol of stof in almal se oë skop tydens landloop nie, geniet hy dit om rugby te speel, misterie strokiesprentboeke te lees of woordsoek te doen.  Wat motiveer jou om so goed te presteer? Sy afrigter, Meneer André, se hulp en aanmoediging tydens die sessies dien as motivering om hard te oefen en goed te presteer. Gimmies wink alreeds vir 10-jarige Lihann, so dit dien as ekstra motivering om regtig op die sportveld en atletiekbaan uit te haal en te wys wat in hom steek.  Wat sal dit vir jou beteken as jy goud by SA Skole wen?  “Dit sal vir my baie great wees!” Dit sal ook beteken dat al sy opoffering en toewyding nie verniet was nie en dat hy van vroeg af kan leer dat harde werk wel beloon word. Die strategie en sleutel tot sy innerlike sukses voor die skoot klap? “Ek moet fokus om by die voorste atlete te bly en wanneer ek besig is om te hardloop, sê ek vir myself ek kan dit aanhou doen.” Nou ja, so eenvoudig soos dit. Foto: Verskaf Ons wens Lihann alle sterkte toe met sy byeenkomste en weet sommer hy gaan fantasties presteer! Indien jy ‘n bydrae wil maak om Lihann ‘n tree of twee nader aan sy droom te bring, kontak vir Stefani direk by 079 693 6397. Johané van Dyk - Potchefstroom

From Welkom to the World of Creativity Hendrik Stephanus (Fanie) Viljoen, a name that resonates with vibrant creativity and imaginative prowess, embarked on his journey in Welkom on the 2nd of January, 1970. Despite his initial reluctance to progress through the grades at school, preferring the simplicity and exploratory freedom of grade 1, Viljoen's journey from a young boy in Welkom to a celebrated author and artist is a testament to the boundless territories of human creativity. Image : Facebook Fanie Viljoen With a background in graphic design from the Technical College Welkom and a BA in Social Sciences from UNISA, Viljoen's educational path laid the groundwork for a career that would see him merge the visual with the verbal in compelling narratives for children and youth. A Full-Time Commitment to Creativity Transitioning from a training consultant at Sanlam to a full-time writer and artist, Fanie Viljoen has made Bloemfontein his canvas, both literally and metaphorically. His daily dedication to storytelling reflects not just a career choice but a calling to engage with the world through the eyes of imagination. It is this commitment to creativity that has seen Viljoen acclaimed with numerous awards, including the prestigious Goue Sanlam Prize for Youth Literature, the M.E.R. Prize for Youth Literature, and several ATKV Children's Book Awards, among others. The Power of Imagination Viljoen's literary works, celebrated for their inventive narratives and emotional depth, underscore his belief in the limitless potential of the youthful imagination. His books, including notable titles like "Breinbliksem," "Pynstiller," and "Onderwêreld," are not just stories but gateways to worlds where the boundaries of reality are expanded by the boundless creativity of young minds. This belief in the power of imagination is what drives Viljoen to dedicate his talents to writing children's and youth books, a genre where he has found both recognition and fulfillment. More Than Words But Fanie Viljoen's creativity is not confined to the written word alone. As a painter and illustrator, he brings his stories to life with visuals that capture the essence of his narratives. His dual talent as an author and artist allows him to create a multi-dimensional experience for his readers, blending the visual and verbal into a cohesive whole. Viljoen's personal illustrations in some of his books offer a glimpse into his artistic vision, adding a layer of personal touch to his already compelling storytelling. A Life Enriched by Art Beyond his professional achievements, Fanie Viljoen is a man of varied interests and simple pleasures. From his first job as a bank cashier to his adventures in storytelling and radio drama writing, Viljoen's life is a canvas of experiences. His love for art extends beyond his professional work; he finds joy in drawing, painting, and even keeping silkworms during his school days—an anecdote that perhaps reflects his curiosity and willingness to explore the unconventional. Viljoen's personal tastes, including his love for sweets like honey, dates, nougat, and chocolate, add a relatable and human touch to the portrait of an artist dedicated to exploring the depth and breadth of creativity. Fanie Viljoen's journey from a hesitant schoolboy in Welkom to a celebrated author and artist in Bloemfontein is a narrative of passion, creativity, and dedication. His works, both written and visual, offer a window into the soul of an artist committed to exploring and expanding the boundaries of imagination. In a world increasingly in need of creative voices, Viljoen's contributions stand as a testament to the power of art to inspire, challenge, and transform. Books Written by Fanie Viljoen Verdiep Prooi Betower Dromers The Last Time I Died Follow Fanie Viljoen's Social Media Pages Facebook(https://www.facebook.com/fanieviljoenskrywer)

Zelda Bezuidenhout's story begins far from the literary circles of South Africa, in the landscapes of Zambia. Yet, it was in Hennenman, Free State, where she grew up, that the seeds of her future as a storyteller were sown. After completing her B.A. in Communication Studies at what is now North-West University, Bezuidenhout found herself on the cusp of a year-long adventure in Israel. Image : Facebook Zelda Bezuidenhout However, destiny had other plans, and an unexpected selection for an advertising internship with the Association of Advertising Agencies changed her trajectory. Opting to unpack her bags, she embarked on a nearly three-decade-long career as a bilingual copywriter in the advertising industry, a journey that took precedence over her Israeli dreams. From Advertising to Authorship Transitioning from the fast-paced world of advertising to the contemplative realm of writing, Bezuidenhout now resides in Parys, Free State, with her family. Here, she manages a small portfolio of self-catering guesthouses—a stark contrast to her previous life in Johannesburg's advertising hub. It was in this serene setting that she penned her first book, "As mens geluk kon proe," a youth novel that quickly garnered acclaim as the runner-up in Lapa Publishers' youth novel competition in 2017. This marked the beginning of her belated but bold foray into the literary world at the age of 56. A Diverse Literary Portfolio Since her debut, Bezuidenhout has not only expanded her repertoire but also her audience, writing across genres and age groups. "Die dekonstruksie van Retta Blom," her first novel for adults, delves into the complexities of personal transformation, while her subsequent youth novels, including "Die 6 weke van Thomas en Ella" and "Toe ons oneindig was," explore the nuanced journeys of young protagonists navigating the turbulent waters of adolescence. Notably, "Toe ons oneindig was" introduces a lesbian protagonist in a coming-of-age story, a pioneering subject in Afrikaans YA fiction. Addressing Contemporary Issues through Fiction Bezuidenhout's latest work, "Die waarde van Stil Bure," ventures into the realm of medical suspense, weaving a narrative around the contentious and ethereal world of stem cell research. Through the eyes of Magdaleen Verster, readers are drawn into a thrilling exploration of moral dilemmas and scientific discovery, highlighting Bezuidenhout's ability to tackle contemporary issues within the bounds of fiction. A Flourishing Literary Voice Now a cornerstone of South Africa's literary community, Zelda Bezuidenhout's late start in publishing has not dimmed her star. Instead, it shines brightly, illuminating a path for aspiring writers that it's never too late to pursue one's passion. With a diverse and impactful body of work, she continues to captivate and challenge her readers, proving that the best stories often come from the most unexpected places. Books Written by Zelda Bezuidenhout Confessions of a Ginger Pudding As mens geluk kon proe Die 6 weke van Thomas & Ella Toe ons oneindig was Die dekonstruksie van Retta Blom Follow Zelda Bezuidenhout's Social Media Pages Facebook(https://www.facebook.com/sienjounaskool)

Annerle Barnard's story begins in the heart of Musina, a place known for its iconic Baobab trees and vibrant landscapes. The transition from the lush Bushveld to the red plains of the Northwest marked a significant chapter in her early life, laying the groundwork for a journey of growth and discovery. Barnard's educational journey, culminating in a BA Honors in English from North-West University, not only reflects her academic prowess but also her deep-rooted passion for language and storytelling. Image : Facebook Annerle Barnard A Life Rich in Adventure and Academia Barnard's life is a tapestry of roles – a devoted wife and mother, an avid reader and nature enthusiast, and, not to forget, a reluctant yet regular sports spectator, thanks to her family's athletic inclinations. Her love for reading, traveling, and the great outdoors complements her literary pursuits, providing a wellspring of inspiration for her creative work. Her motto, "never give up," mirrors her resilience and dedication, traits that have propelled her from a teaching career to notable achievements in the literary world. A Literary Luminary for the Young and Young at Heart Barnard's foray into the literary world with her debut novel, Sweepslag, and subsequent masterpieces, Sindikaat and Spel, has not only captivated the hearts of teenagers but also garnered acclaim among adult readers. Her ability to weave thrilling narratives has led her to the prestigious shortlist of the Sanlam Prize for Youth Literature, clinching awards that signify her impact on the genre. Her exploration of genres, particularly her fondness for crime and suspense fiction, demonstrates her versatility and depth as an author. Recognition and Reflections: A Journey through Words The acknowledgment of Barnard's work through nominations and awards for the Sanlam Prize for Youth Literature underscores her significant contribution to the field. Yet, it's her candid sharing of the lessons learned on her writing journey that offers invaluable insights into the creative process. From embracing the imperfections of first drafts to finding one's unique voice amidst the plotter-pantser debate, Barnard's reflections offer a glimpse into the perseverance and adaptability that define her as an author. The Craft Behind the Curtain: A Writer's Evolution Annerle Barnard's narrative extends beyond her accolades, delving into the disciplined yet fluid approach she adopts in her writing. Her transition from meticulous editing to prioritizing the flow of storytelling reveals a maturation in her craft, emphasizing the joy found in revision. The journey of her novels, from inception to publication, illustrates not only the tangible challenges of writing but also the personal growth and satisfaction derived from bringing stories to life. A Beacon of Perseverance: Inspiring Aspiring Authors Barnard's literary journey, marked by moments of doubt and triumph, stands as a testament to the power of perseverance. Her honest account of the fears and challenges that accompany the writing process resonates with both seasoned and aspiring authors alike. By sharing her story, Barnard not only celebrates her achievements but also lights the way for others, encouraging them to pursue their dreams with tenacity and courage. In the landscape of South African literature, Annerle Barnard emerges as a distinguished voice, whose narratives not only entertain but inspire. Her journey from the verdant vistas of Musina to the esteemed echelons of literary recognition embodies the essence of dedication, creativity, and an unyielding spirit. Through her works and wisdom, Barnard continues to influence and invigorate the world of literature, proving that with passion and perseverance, every story is worth telling. Books Written by Annerle Barnard Sweepslag Sindikaat Spel Follow Annerle Barnard's Social Media Pages Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/outeur.author/)Instagram(https://www.instagram.com/annerlebarnard/?hl=en)

In the heart of Glasgow, amidst the bustling city life and scenic beauty, resides Francine Beaton, a South African-born author who has made the city her home alongside her Scottish husband. Francine, a connoisseur of romance novels for decades, made her literary debut in 2018 with Eye on the Ball, the first installment of her Taste for Love series. This marked the beginning of her journey from an avid reader to a celebrated author in the romance genre. Image : Facebook Francine Beaton Beyond the Pages: A Life Filled with Passion Francine's life outside writing is as vibrant and engaging as the stories she pens. An ardent traveler and photographer, she captures the essence of her journeys, whether it's the food on her plate or the landscapes she explores. Her enthusiasm doesn't stop there; as a fervent rugby supporter, Francine has transitioned from playing the game to being its vocal fan, often found commentating from the sidelines with a glass of wine in hand. Valentine's Day Highlight: A Novella to Cherish With Valentine's Day approaching, Francine Beaton offers a timely gift to romance enthusiasts with her novella, Chances. This narrative, nestled within her "On the Sidelines" series, shines a spotlight on characters from her broader universe, granting them their own tales of love and connection. Chances serves as a perfect introduction to Francine's world, promising a blend of heartwarming moments and captivating storytelling. Francine Beaton in Conversation: Insights and Inspirations In a candid discussion, Francine reminisced about her childhood reading adventures, highlighted by trips to the local library and cozy reading sessions fueled by snacks. While her early reading was rooted in Afrikaans literature, it was Nora Roberts who later sculpted her writing ethos, offering a paradigm of romance writing that resonates with Francine's work today. Her writing routine, a blend of discipline and flexibility, underscores the dedication behind her novels. From early morning marketing updates to uninterrupted writing sessions, Francine's day is a testament to her commitment to storytelling. Looking Ahead: Themes of Depth and Diversity Francine's future projects hint at a journey into more profound themes such as cancer, menopause, and the loss of a child, promising a rich tapestry of human experiences and emotions. Her one-sentence summary of writing, "Writing is what keeps me (and my family) sane," encapsulates the solace and fulfillment she finds in her craft. An Invitation to Romance As Francine Beaton continues to explore the depths of human relationships through her writing, she invites readers to delve into the world of romance, offering stories that resonate, entertain, and inspire. Whether you're seeking a short read to set the mood for Valentine's Day or looking to immerse yourself in a new series, Francine's work promises a journey of love, resilience, and the enduring power of a well-told story. Books Written by Francine Beaton Love Me Tender Love,Life and Unicorns Leading from the Front : A Playing for Glory Romance Making the Right Call Follow Francine Beaton Social Media Pages Facebook(https://www.facebook.com/francine.beaton.7)

Nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Namaqualand's West Coast, Joha van Dyk's journey into the world of storytelling began. Growing up on the farm Steenvlei, her childhood was a tapestry of outdoor adventures, daydreams, and an early passion for reading. The guesthouse run by her parents, Die Houthoop, served as a revolving door of characters and tales, enriching her imagination and sowing the seeds for her future in writing. At the tender age of eight, Joha embarked on her writing voyage, armed with a Word Document and a rebuilt PC courtesy of her brother. Image : Facebook Joha van Dyk The Formative Stellenbosch Years Joha's affinity for storytelling followed her to the historic town of Stellenbosch, where she attended Hoërskool Stellenbosch. Immersed in a vibrant school life, she engaged in drama, contributed to the school paper, and played a pivotal role in the Culture Committee and as a stage manager for theatre groups. Amidst academic pursuits, Joha found solace in music and storytelling, often jotting down narratives on scraps of paper during classes, a testament to her unwavering dedication to her craft. Academic Excellence and Literary Pursuits Joha's academic journey flourished at Stellenbosch University, where she completed her BA Humanities, followed by a Cum Laude Honours degree in English Studies. Her Master's dissertation, an exploration of short stories set in the abandoned town of Kleinzee, received Cum Laude recognition, showcasing her ability to intertwine academic rigor with creative storytelling. Currently pursuing her PhD in English Studies, Joha returns to her roots, focusing on the anecdotal storytelling of Namaqualand and Kleinzee, further blending her academic interests with her literary passions. A Rising Star in Poetry and Young Adult Fiction Joha's poetic talent has been recognized in several anthologies, with her works published in Penseel and featured on Versindaba, marking her as a significant voice in contemporary poetry. Her debut Young Adult novel, Branderjaer, and its sequel, Vuurvreter, published by Human & Rousseau, have solidified her position as a noteworthy author in the South African literary landscape. These novels, along with her poetry, reflect the depth of her connection to her homeland and her adeptness at capturing the essence of human experiences. The Multifaceted Life of a Young Author At 25, Joha van Dyk embodies the spirit of a modern-day renaissance woman—balancing her PhD studies with her roles as a tutor and an emerging literary talent. Her journey from a young girl on a farm in Namaqualand to a celebrated author and academic is a testament to her dedication, talent, and the rich cultural heritage that informs her work. As she continues to explore the nuances of storytelling through her academic research and creative writing, Joha stands as a beacon of inspiration, demonstrating the power of stories to connect, inspire, and transform. Joha van Dyk's literary and academic achievements are not just personal triumphs but a celebration of the stories that shape us. As she weaves her narratives, bridging the gap between the academic world and the vast landscapes of her childhood, Joha invites us to explore the depth of our own stories and the places that hold them. Her work, rooted in the rich soils of Namaqualand and honed in the halls of academia, continues to enchant, challenge, and inspire, marking her as a distinctive voice in the world of South African literature. Books Written by Joha van Dyk Branderjaer Vuurvreter Kan nie Dood Follow Joha van Dyk's Social Media Pages Facebook(https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064029045743)