There is something beautiful about looking back and realising that the work you started with a little hope, a great deal of courage and a willingness to try has grown into something that touches other people's lives.

That is what Writers Inc. Magazine continues to mean to us. It is more than a publication. It is a meeting place for stories, ideas, lessons and people who remind us that our words matter, our experiences have value and our voices deserve to be heard.

As we bring you our October and November edition, we are reminded that impact does not always announce itself loudly. Sometimes it is found in a book that helps someone make sense of a difficult season. Sometimes it is in a conversation that gives a woman the courage to begin again. And sometimes it is in the quiet, consistent work of people who choose to use what they know to make life a little better for someone else.

This edition celebrates two remarkable women whose journeys reflect the power of purpose in action.

Our Cover Story: Becoming Naume

We are honoured to feature Naume Ndoro Kusotera, an author, pharmacist and wellness advocate whose work speaks to the importance of healing, wholeness and personal growth. Her journey reminds us that the work of helping others often begins with a willingness to understand the human experience, including the parts of ourselves that need patience, grace and healing.

Becoming Her: The Story Behind Nicole Marara

We also shine a spotlight on Nicole Ruvimbo Marara, a young and impactful author, leadership strategist and entrepreneur whose work spans professional development, women's empowerment and purposeful leadership.

Nicole is an Executive Support and Human Resources professional, entrepreneur, career development practitioner, author and mentor. She currently serves as General Manager and is the Founder of Ruvimbo Consultancy, where her work focuses on career development, executive support, HR, leadership and professional development.

She is also the Founder of Shanda Initiative, a platform focused on creating spaces for women to learn, connect, grow and build, and the host of the Shanda Women in Wealth podcast. She is the author of To My Son(s): Letters from a Mother Who Dreamt You First, a book exploring identity, responsibility, healing and becoming through letters written to her future sons.

Across her work, Nicole is passionate about people, purpose and performance, with a particular interest in helping individuals translate their potential into practical personal and professional growth.

Writing For Social Impact with Chiedza Nyanyiwa

We are so proud to feature Chiedza Nyanyiwa, author of The Covenant of Life and Other Essays. which was awarded the Phoenix Publishing Book Awards in 2024. Her short story The Silence was included in Carnelian Heart Publishing's anthology Things You Cannot Say With Your Mouth, and Amandla was featured in Pepeta Africa's short story collection.

Chiedza is a child rights advocate and the founder of Children's Republic Association and Chiedza Institute for Activism. Thank you for showing us that writing can change lives.

Margaret's Pick

In Margaret's Pick, we review Food for Thought by Kenyan author Ian Dennis. A gentle but persuasive collection of quotes, reflections and philosophies through life and business, it invites us to look at our own minds more honestly. We rated it 3.5/5 a kind of read that doesn't demand quick answers, but encourages you to question your thinking and take action in your own way, slowly, but meaningfully.

Personal Development with Coach Eve

This issue also celebrates Evermore Kangani, a multi-award-winning Professional Certified Coach (PCC), health professional, author, speaker, and founder of Volvenesis Consultancy. She is the Executive Director of Zimbabwe Impact Awards (Zimpact), an initiative that celebrates excellence and inspires meaningful impact across communities.

Through coaching, mentoring, speaking, and training, Evermore has empowered students, professionals, entrepreneurs, and organizations to unlock their potential and live purpose-driven lives. Guided by her mantra, "Effectiveness over popularity," she is committed to developing leaders who create value, influence others positively, and leave a lasting legacy.

New Books

We also celebrate Karen Tendai Mutasa and her book Girl, Rise,  A deeply personal and faith-filled journey of hope, resilience, healing, and restoration, it is a reminder that even in our darkest moments, God remains present. It is for every woman who has felt broken, lost, weary, or uncertain about what lies ahead.

Inside This Issue You Will Also Find:

- Editor's Note

- Cover Article: In Conversation with Naume

- Bookish Events

- Kudzai’s Letters

- Margaret's Picks

- Personal Development with Coach Eve

- New Books

- Writing for Social Impact

- Becoming Her: The Story Behind Nicole Marara

View the full issue here:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1cAosoL8t4BvbbXNEOo0x6bkzEU1vaE4J/view?usp=drivesdk

Although their paths differ, both Naume and Nicole remind us that impact is not simply about the positions we occupy or the milestones we achieve. It is also about the people we reach, the opportunities we create and what continues to grow because we chose to show up.

To every contributor, every writer, every reader and every bibliophile who believes in this magazine — thank you. You are the reason Writers Inc. exists.

With love and gratitude,

From the Editor

Writers Inc. Magazine

The wait is over!

We are delighted to announce that the August 2026 edition of Writers Inc. Magazine is now available, bringing together inspiring stories, practical insights and the latest happenings from the literary community. Whether you are an aspiring writer, an established author, an avid reader or a publishing professional, this month’s issue has been carefully curated to inform, inspire and celebrate the power of books and storytelling.

Read the August edition here:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1DfI1PlhkUnXgCeFU7Cq-R6e-QMkxdqn1/view?usp=drivesdk

Celebrating remarkable literary voices

This month’s edition shines a spotlight on two exceptional authors whose journeys demonstrate that every writer’s story is unique.

We feature Rumbi Chen, whose work continues to captivate readers through compelling fiction and imaginative storytelling. Her feature offers readers a closer look at the author behind the books and the passion that fuels her creative journey.

We also celebrate South African author Kuli, widely known as Kuli Writes on Facebook. Her remarkable journey from sharing stories on social media to becoming a published author is a testament to the opportunities that arise when talent, consistency and courage come together. Her story serves as an inspiration to aspiring writers everywhere, reminding us that every successful author starts with a single story.

More than a magazine

At Writers Inc. Magazine, we believe that writing is about more than producing books. It is about creating impact, building communities and equipping writers with the knowledge they need to thrive.

This edition features thought-provoking articles covering:

• Personal development for writers and creatives.

• Financial insights to help you build wealth.

• Writing for social impact and using your voice to influence positive change.

• Practical ideas and inspiration for anyone pursuing a career in publishing or the creative industries.

Whether you are working on your first manuscript or your fiftieth, there is something in this edition that will encourage you to keep writing and growing.

Discover new books

One of our favourite sections each month is our showcase of newly released books. We are proud to introduce readers to fresh voices and exciting new publications from across the literary landscape.

By highlighting new titles, we hope to connect readers with books they may not have discovered otherwise while giving deserving authors the visibility they deserve.

Stay connected with the literary community

The literary world is constantly evolving, and Writers Inc. Magazine is committed to keeping you informed.

Inside this issue, you’ll also find information about upcoming book launches, literary events and opportunities within the writing and publishing community. We encourage readers to support these events, engage with fellow book lovers and continue building a vibrant culture of reading and storytelling.

As we look ahead, we are incredibly excited about what September has in store. There are more inspiring stories, exciting features and meaningful conversations on the horizon, and we cannot wait to share them with you.

Advertise with Writers Inc. Magazine

Are you an author with a new release? A publisher looking to reach an engaged literary audience? Do you offer services for writers, readers or the publishing industry?

Writers Ink Magazine provides an excellent platform to showcase your work to a growing community of passionate readers, authors and industry professionals. We welcome advertisements for books, literary events, publishing services, creative businesses and opportunities that support the writing community.

If you would like to feature your book, business, event or service in an upcoming edition, we would love to hear from you.

Together, let’s continue celebrating stories, supporting authors and strengthening our literary community.

Thank you for being part of the Writers Ink family. We hope you enjoy the August edition and look forward to sharing many more inspiring stories with you in the months ahead.

Happy reading!

There are moments when you begin something with confidence, believing the road ahead will be straightforward. Then life humbles you.

This year, we genuinely thought preparing for the fifth edition of the Phoenix Publishing Annual Book Awards would be business as usual. Instead, we wrestled with it. We questioned it. We carried it through seasons that demanded far more than we anticipated. There were moments when the weight of the vision felt heavier than our capacity to carry it.

Yet here we are.

And perhaps that is what makes this year’s announcement even more meaningful.

We are delighted to announce that submissions for the Fifth Annual Phoenix Publishing Book Awards are officially open.

From 1 July 2026 until 30 September 2026, authors whose books were published between September 2025 and September 2026 are invited to submit their work for adjudication ahead of the awards ceremony, which will take place on 28 November 2026.

For the past four years, these awards have been organised entirely pro bono. Every edition has been fuelled by a genuine passion for Zimbabwean literature and a belief that our writers deserve to be seen, celebrated and honoured for the stories they tell.

Looking back, we cannot help but smile with gratitude.

We have celebrated remarkable authors, watched many of them receive recognition through the Phoenix Publishing Annual Book Awards, and later go on to earn honours at the National Arts Merit Awards (NAMAs). Witnessing that journey has reminded us why this platform exists in the first place.

Stewarding a vision like this without the backing of a trust fund has certainly been an adventure. It has required sacrifice, resilience and an unwavering commitment to something greater than ourselves. Even so, we continue to honour the calling placed before us, trusting that every author recognised, every story celebrated and every dream encouraged contributes to the growth of Zimbabwe’s literary landscape.

Because our writers matter.

Their stories matter.

And the future of Zimbabwean literature deserves to be nurtured.

This year’s awards will recognise excellence across a broad range of categories, including:

• Fiction (Romance, Fantasy, Adventure and Science Fiction)

• Motivational

• Spiritual (Prayer, Journals and Devotionals)

• Self-help

• Poetry Anthologies

• Short Story Anthologies

• Memoirs and Autobiographies

• Children’s Books

• Business

• Politics

• Cookbooks

• Health and Fitness

• Audiobooks

Whether you are a first-time author or an established writer, we invite you to share your work with us. This platform exists to celebrate excellence, encourage creativity and continue raising the standard of Zimbabwean publishing.

We also remain open to partnering with organisations and brands that share our vision for championing literature and would like to support this year’s awards.

So, for the fifth year in a row, ladies and gentlemen…

The submissions are officially open!

If you know an author who published a book within the eligibility period, please let them know. Better still, tell your author friends to tell their author friends. Together, let’s continue celebrating the voices shaping Zimbabwe’s literary future.

We cannot wait to read your stories.

This month, Phoenix Publishing came all guns blazing! The November 2025 issue of Writers Inc. Magazine celebrates the vibrancy, resilience, and brilliance of African writers — spotlighting both established voices and new literary talents across the continent.

Spotlight Feature: Irene Staunton

We’re thrilled to feature the incredible Irene Staunton as our cover girl for this month’s issue. A visionary editor and publisher, Irene has played a pivotal role in shaping Zimbabwean and African literature. Her story is one of courage, creativity, and deep dedication to storytelling that matters.

Crossing Borders: Namibia Edition

From Zimbabwe to Namibia, we cross borders to catch up with @Stella Gonye and @Victoria Haihambo — two dynamic writers whose work embodies cross-cultural dialogue and authentic African expression. Their presence in this issue reminds us that storytelling is both universal and deeply rooted in place.

Resident Writers Bringing Their A-Game

Our resident contributors — Margaret Chideme, Chelsea Alfonso, and Pynomavillator LP — continue to deliver exceptional work each month. Whether through interviews, features, or commentary, these women are the creative backbone of Writers Inc.. Their passion and consistency keep our flame alive. 

New Books Spotlight

In our New Books section, we’re excited to showcase the latest works from Parutu Ku, Tinashe Gumbo, and Fidelis Simbarashe Mawondo. Each title brings a fresh perspective, offering readers an invitation into new worlds, voices, and imaginations that define the evolving African literary scene.

Poetry Voices: Fire and Flow

Our poetry corner is ablaze this month thanks to Nicole Kazembe and Munashe Perpetual, whose verses flow with passion, vulnerability, and truth. Through their words, we are reminded that poetry is the heartbeat of our collective storytelling — raw, rhythmic, and radiant.

A Note of Gratitude

To every contributor, thank you for your “yes.” Writers Inc. Magazine thrives because of the collective fire of writers who dare to share their truth, one story at a time. Without you, there is no magazine.

Read the Full November Issue

Catch up on what’s new, inspiring, and unmissable in the latest issue of Writers Inc. Magazine:

 Read the November Issue Here

The October issue of Writers Inc. is here, and it’s one you won’t want to miss! As the season shifts and the year draws closer to its grand finale, we’re bringing you a powerful collection of stories, interviews, poetry, and reflections to inspire and uplift.

On our cover, we proudly feature the incredible Sue Nyathi—a writer whose books continue to capture hearts and spark conversations across the literary world. Her voice, her journey, and her commitment to storytelling embody exactly what Writers Inc. stands for.

This month’s edition takes you across borders and into new creative spaces:

We catch up with Muofhe, National Director of Nwala Writers, for a heartfelt reflection on the Limpopo Book Fair and the vision behind it.

We spotlight Sisan McNeil, the South African-Nigerian writer bridging cultures through her vibrant narratives.

We speak with Pastor Gamu, whose words remind us of the strength found in faith and community.

Our Emerging Voices Poetry Corner bursts with fresh talent.

Diaspora Reflections and Youth Corner shine light on voices shaping the future.

And, as always, we’ve included our Events Calendar and a round-up of new books to discover in October.

But that’s not all—there’s an extra buzz in the air. With the Phoenix Book Awards just around the corner, this issue marks the countdown to one of the most anticipated literary celebrations of the year. Expect announcements, highlights, and stories as we build towards the big night in December.

Dive into the October issue here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1qhCt3Mqd_tsi6x4E_k5gx9wHeQNJIbdf/view?usp=drivesdk

Join us as we celebrate voices old and new, stories that move us, and the unstoppable energy of the written word. October is here—and the best is yet to come.

Phoenix Publishing is proud to announce the long-awaited release of the very first issue of Writers Inc. Magazine; a fresh, dynamic space dedicated to celebrating stories, storytellers, and everything in between.

This debut issue is nothing short of remarkable. We are thrilled to feature exclusive interviews with the best selling author Busisekile Khumalo and the trailblazing Margaret Chideme, the visionary founder of Lifeline Narrative. They share their  journey of building a platforms that have given voice to stories of resilience and empowerment, and their words will leave you inspired and ready to write your own chapter.

But that’s not all… inside this issue you’ll also discover:

Book Reviews – honest, insightful takes on the latest reads. 

New Voices in Poetry – raw, vibrant expressions from emerging poets you’ll want to remember.

 Book Events Calendar – never miss the key launches, readings, and literary happenings near you.

 And so much more — from features to fresh ideas that ignite creativity. Read all about it here:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/116DDRvE56_tHXdlUsp6yIces4VJ8e1xo/view?usp=drivesdk

Writers Inc. isn’t just a magazine; it’s a movement. A place where writers, poets, publishers, and readers come together to share, connect, and keep the love of literature alive.

Be Part of the Story

We’re opening our doors to the wider literary community! If you’re a writer, editor, poet, or creative with something to say;  we’d love to feature your work in upcoming issues. Businesses, bookstores, and literary service providers are also welcome to advertise and connect with our growing audience of readers and creatives.

Whether you want to contribute, advertise, or simply get your hands on the latest issue, this is your invitation to step into the Writers Inc. circle.

This is just the beginning. And trust us, you’ll want to keep watching what’s next.

The countdown is on! Submissions for the Fourth Annual Phoenix Publishing Book Awards close on 30 August 2025 — and this is your chance to be part of Zimbabwe’s most celebrated literary stage.

If you’ve published a book between September 2024 and August 2025, we want to see it. Whether you write heart-racing fiction, life-changing self-help, inspiring memoirs, or poetry that speaks to the soul — your work deserves the spotlight.

Categories include:

• Fiction (romance, fantasy, adventure, sci-fi)    • Motivational & Self-Help Spiritual (prayer, journals, devotionals)

• Poetry & Short Story Anthologies

• Memoirs & Autobiographies

• Children’s Books

• Business, Politics, Cookbooks, Health & Fitness

• Audiobooks

Why Enter?

Gain national recognition. Celebrate your craft. Join a vibrant community of writers. This is your moment to let your words shine.

📅 Deadline: 30 August 2025

📞 +263 775 388 608

📧 [email protected]

Don’t wait — send in your submission today and stand a chance to be celebrated at the 29 November 2025 awards ceremony.

Celebrating Excellence. Honouring Creativity. Uplifting Talent.

We are thrilled to announce that submissions are now officially open for the 4th edition of the Phoenix Publishing Awards!

These awards are more than just a ceremony;  they are a bold celebration of Zimbabwean literary excellence, creative courage and the voices shaping our present and future through the written word. Since the inception of the awards, we have remained committed to identifying, recognising and amplifying exceptional talent across the publishing and literary landscape.

What makes the Phoenix Publishing Book Awards special is not just the honour itself, but the impact it carries. Over the past three years, several of our winners have gone on to receive national recognition, including Zimbabwe’s highest literary accolade — the NAMAs (National Arts Merit Awards). This speaks to the calibre of authors and creators we highlight, and the eye for talent, detail and storytelling that our team is known for.

At Phoenix Publishing, we don’t just publish books; we support writers, elevate voices and create platforms that inspire growth and visibility. These awards are part of that mission: a moment to shine a light on incredible work, to give writers their flowers, and to say, “You are seen. You are celebrated. You are making a difference.”

If you are a writer, designer or literary contributor who has published or produced work worthy of celebration; this is your moment. Whether it’s your debut or your tenth project, your voice matters and we want to honour it.

All details about submission categories, criteria, and deadlines are included in the official press release published on May 1st. Please refer to that for full information. For inquiries or to submit your work, feel free to get in touch, we would love to hear from you.

Let this be the year your work is acknowledged, your journey is celebrated and your story is honoured.

Submit today. Be recognised. Rise with us.

#PhoenixPublishingAwards2025

Happy New Year, Phoenix Publishing family!

We are bursting with excitement as we step into 2025 because this year is unlike any other. Not only are we growing, expanding, and reaching new heights, but we are also bringing you something fresh, inspiring, and truly game-changing: our very own publishing magazine!

Yes, you heard that right! In April 2025, Phoenix Publishing will launch a brand-new quarterly magazine, dedicated to celebrating the magic of books, emerging talent, and the heartbeat of the publishing industry in Zimbabwe and South Africa. Whether you are an author, an aspiring writer, a book lover, or simply someone who enjoys diving into literary conversations, this magazine will be your go-to source for everything bookish.

From exclusive author spotlights, in-depth book reviews, industry insights, and inspiring new voices to the latest bookish events and trends, we are curating something special, meaningful, and uplifting. We want this magazine to be a home for African storytelling, a space where creativity and talent shine, and a beacon of encouragement for every writer still drafting their first pages.

And speaking of growth we are beyond thrilled to now be operating in South Africa! This expansion is more than just a business milestone; it’s an invitation for more writers, more dreamers, and more voices to join our Phoenix Publishing family. We believe in the power of stories to transform lives, and with our presence in South Africa, we are ready to make an even bigger impact.

So, here’s to a year of new beginnings, fearless writing, bold storytelling, and boundless creativity! Stay tuned for more details about the magazine, submission opportunities, and how you can be part of this exciting journey.

To all the authors, readers, and lovers of the written word 2025 is our year! Let’s make it one for the books.

With gratitude and excitement,

The Phoenix Publishing Team

The moment we have been waiting for is finally upon us, exactly 8 days away!!! The lights, the glitz, the electric atmosphere and everything that it comes with, and we are ready for it. 

We are particularly intrigued by the turn out of events, and boy is it exciting to be counting down to the day. Just now it was January 4 and we were doing a press release and a call for submissions to writers. And today, here we are taking the hope, energy and enthusiasm of this long anticipated day. The big winners, the cheer and love to encourage authors to keep doing what they love most as they also get the recognition they desire and deserve. 

It’s been a man awesome journey, one of much growth and learning. We are coming to share more after it has happened. For now head over to Rios Lifestyle Books Eastgate and grab your ticket. It’s gonna be awesome and we are ready for it…

We are excited to notify the public as prior stated on the 4th of January 2022, that our inaugural book awards are still going ahead as planned on the 25th of November 2022. We invite interested stakeholders in the Zimbabwean literary society and industry at large to come forth and be part of it. 

Writers are invited to submit their applications and work (published between 1 January 2021 - 30 August 2022) no later than 30 September 2022 for the adjudication process. We are open to partner with interested brands to make this historic event a success. For more information and inquiries kindly contact us on +263 775 388 608 or email us: [email protected]