Brümilda Swartbooi
Moipone Malaka, a dedicated City of Johannesburg employee, has self-published her second book, Rainbow Child. This heartfelt children’s story, launched in October 2024 during Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month, symbolises hope after a storm, beautifully exploring themes of love, loss, and resilience.
Moipone works in the Citizen Relationship and Urban Management (CRUM) unit in Region B. Her book, Rainbow Child, is a deeply personal tribute inspired by her son, Theto, now three years old, who she affectionately calls her “rainbow child” after experiencing the pain of a miscarriage.
“Everything written was through his lens,” she says, highlighting their special bond. The title celebrates children who bring light to families after loss.
Writing under the pen name Monde M, Moipone’s creative journey began in 2020 with her debut novel, Dropping Suspension, a romantic fiction. Her love for storytelling traces back to her primary school days, where she eagerly devoured the Sweet Valley High series by Francine Pascal. After the loss of her mother, Maria Lekala, in 2017, writing became her solace. Sharing her work on social media further fuelled her passion.
Inspired by authors Jackie Phamotse, Busisekile Khumalo, and Gugulethu Mobadi, Moipone plans to release a sequel to Dropping Suspension in 2025 and another book titled Behind the Collar is My Husband.
Her career with the City of Johannesburg began in 2004 on a learnership in Revenue. By 2006, she was permanently appointed as an administrative assistant in rates and taxes. Over the years, Moipone has held various positions, currently serving as the Operational Manager for Citizen Interface.
Moipone’s values stem from her upbringing in Zone 2 Diepkloof, Soweto, where her parents instilled the importance of humility and hard work. Her father, Ramotsibi Lekala, was a dedicated bus driver, and her mother, Maria, sold treats at a nearby school.
Outside her professional and creative pursuits, Moipone is committed to charity and church work, and she is a devoted wife. She enjoys spending time with family and travelling.
Describing herself as audacious, inspiring, and loving, she reflects on her journey with a heartfelt reminder: “Remain humble and always care for other people.”
SOURCED FROM THE JOBURG WEBSITE.
