Jubilee Rivombo, a multi-award-winning author from Bungeni, launched her second book, titled “Beauty for Ashes”, on Sunday, 30 June. Through this book, she aims to address the often-neglected matter of mental health.

Dedicated to nation building and community activism, Rivombo drew inspiration for her book from witnessing the profound challenges people face with mental-health disorders. She believes her book will resonate deeply with readers, especially in disadvantaged communities where a high incidence of mental health problems, particularly among teenagers, is prevalent.

“The language I use in my book is simple and relatable, with examples that readers can identify with. My hope is that families, individuals struggling with mental health issues, and their supporters will benefit from the book. I aim for it to catalyse conversations about mental health, particularly in communities where the topic remains taboo,” she said.

Rivombo mentioned that she took five years to write the book, drawing from diverse personal experiences, rigorous research, and professional insights. Among her academic achievements, Rivombo earned a bachelor of social sciences, majoring in psychology and criminology, from the University of the Free State in 2019.

She has also received several awards, including the Emily Hobhouse Best Writer Award and recognition as a Young Woman Peacebuilder in 2022 by the Department of Women, Youth, and Persons with Disabilities. Rivombo said her book aligned with her 12 years of voluntary activism in communities.

“My advice to those facing tough times is to first acknowledge their struggles and seek support from loved ones. In the book, I outline various avenues for help, including free counselling services like the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) and Live Life, as well as affordable options at public hospitals,” she said.

Currently, she is focused on her project to translate the book into a children’s edition, aiming to simplify mental-health concepts for young readers. “I aim to present complex theoretical concepts in a way that anyone can understand,” she said.