Tlotlisang David Mhlambiso, 25, is crafting a legacy through language, literature and learning — from the rural village of Tlokoeng in the Eastern Cape to national literary platforms. A master’s candidate in subject education (languages) at the University of the Free State, he is one of South Africa’s most promising young voices in multilingual literacy and African story- telling. Tlotlisang has authored four books: Ukuphuma Kwelanga, Phind’ ubhale, Zizinto Zobomi, and A Journey Worth the Ride — a multilingual short story collection launched at the National Arts Festival and Amazwi South African Museum of Literature. His writing is rooted in identity, imagination and access, and his outreach reflects that commitment. Through school-based poetry workshops, book donations, and partnerships with platforms such as iCAN and the Academy for Multilingualism, Tlotlisang champions literacy education across rural and township schools. His efforts have earned him national recognition, including NYDA Trailblazer, Sunday World Unsung Hero, UFS Student of the Year, and a spot among the 100 South African Shining Stars. Tlotlisang writes to honour the past, uplift the present, and illuminate the way forward.
At the University of the Free State (UFS), I have had the opportunity to meet Dr Peet van Aardt, the UFS head of WriteSite, iCAN coordinator and my English lecturer, and Ms Nthabiseng JahRose Jafta, the UFS African languages press publishing coordinator, creative strategist, accredited facilitator and poet. They have had an immense effect on my writing journey through their support, one-on-one consultations and creative writing workshops. I also acknowledge my parents’ multilingualism when they scold me and my siblings. Lastly, Professor Leketi Makalela’s academic publications, which focus on the inseparability of African languages and their use in one setting for meaning-making purposes, have been highly influential. ‘If ever I thank any men, I’ll thank you.’