Book by Houghton Estate resident brings voice to the voiceless

Houghton Estate resident Shazia Dadabhay has written a book aimed to unite and bring healing to victims of trauma.

Dadabhay holds an honours degree in psychology and explained that her growing interest in the field created a need within her to understand others.

“Certain hardships in my own life have led me to open my heart to others,” said Dadabhay.

The self-published book, Wildflowers: An anthology of prose and poetry focuses on the fact that people are placed in uncomfortable and painful environments or moments, yet they survive and come out stronger, like a wildflower.

The book is based on the real-life experiences of individuals who have shared their stories with Dadabhay as well as her own personal experiences.

“I consider myself a feminist, humanitarian and mental health advocate. I was inspired to write this book when I realised that so many South Africans experience similar hardships, yet we feel alone in our struggle. I wanted my fellow South Africans to feel as though they are not alone. I wanted them to feel a sense of strength.”

Dadabhay said readers would enjoy discussions on controversial topics such as feminism, self-love and vulnerability, which were generally avoided or even shunned by patriarchal societies.
“The book allows readers to feel strength and courage. It portrays pain, as well as healing… Hardships will never last forever and will always be met with light, love and healing.”

Dadabhay said women’s voices have been suppressed for too long and hoped to bring their stories to light.

The book is available for R200 and can be requested directly from Dadabhay by emailing shaziad@mail.com