Professional nurse, Nomana Mtshakaza (51), from Qunu, outside Mthatha, has released an inspirational book, titled Life Can Change in a Moment, a harrowing personal account of her survival journey after being abducted and raped while on night duty, two decades ago, in 2001.
Mtshakaza says the book is aimed at serving as an inspiration to other rape survivors and victims of the many social ills of today, while also creating awareness for those living with rape survivors.
“The book is a personal account of my journey as a rape and abduction survivor and as someone who comes from a poor background. It is intended to give strength and inspire other rape survivors, and to open the eyes of those living with survivors on how to deal with and care for rape survivors,” Mtshakaza said.
“As part of my abduction and rape survival journey, I searched everywhere for books that were authored by survivors and found there were very few available.
“I then decided to document my own rape survival experience and share a few tips on the topic,” she added.
Mtshakaza said one of the most important tools to begin a journey to healing from rape is to speak openly about it.
She says her book also tackles other aspects such as the criminal justice system and how, sometimes, rape victims are unfairly treated when they open rape cases and during court trials of the perpetrators.
Mtshakaza’s book documents her ordeal when, in 2001, she and a colleague were on night duty in one of the healthcare facilities in Mthatha when two men broke into their workplace at night, held them hostage at gunpoint, gang raped her and robbed them of their belongings.
- Mtshakaza’s book, Life Can Change in a Moment, is currently available directly from her at R150 per copy. An additional R60 is payable for those who would need the book sent to them through a courier.
Publishing of the book was made possible through the financial and technical assistance Mtshakaza received from the Eastern Cape Department of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture. Orders can be placed by calling 083 669 9240.
