Candida Mosoma: from actress to Afrocentric children's author with 'Khanyi and the Kite'

Many South African entertainers have found new creative ground in children’s literature.

Carol Ofori, Salamina Mosese, Shudufhadzo Musida and Sho Madjozi are among those who have brought African stories and characters to life for young readers. 

Multi-award-winning actress and singer Candida Mosoma is now joining their ranks with her debut children’s book, “Khanyi and the Kite”, part of the Mbilu Tales Series.

The story follows Khanyi and her playful pug, Momo, as they embark on a lighthearted adventure through the park after Khanyi’s colourful kite drifts away. 

Inspired by her grandmother’s words, “Fly, my little kite, fly high in the sky… Your world is endless, your world will always be new,” Khanyi learns about love, courage and the power of imagination. 

The book blends rhythmic storytelling with Pixar-style illustrations, celebrating African family life and cultural identity. 

Aimed at children aged three to seven, the book is designed to inspire young readers to see themselves reflected in stories that affirm who they are.

Mosoma said that the idea for the book was deeply personal. 

“My writing journey began with the need to create a world where little girls like me could see heroines who looked like them,” she explained.

“For decades, children’s media rarely gave Black girls the spotlight. Between 1985 and 1998, there were no animated shows led by Black girls. And when they finally appeared, most were African American, not African.”

She continued, “In nearly forty years, only two shows have centred on African girl heroines - ‘Bino & Fino’ and ‘Super Sema’. Books have not fared much better. While Afrocentric picture books are blooming, Tsonga heroines - girls rooted in my own culture - are almost non-existent."

"That silence lit the fire for my debut picture book. Khanyi is bold, bright and beautiful - an Afrocentric heroine carrying the rhythms of Tsonga heritage into children’s hands everywhere.”

For Mosoma, the response from her family was a powerful confirmation.

“When my cousin read the story to her daughter, her little face lit up the moment she heard the word ‘Kokwani,’” she recalled. 

“She ran to tell her nanny, ‘My Kokwani is in the book!’ That joy reminded me why representation matters. Through my publishing house, Mbilu Tales - ‘Mbilu’ means heart - I hope the book will be the first of many stories that share the richness of African heritage with the world.”

The actress and singer, known for her dynamic stage and screen performances, said writing the book felt like a natural evolution of her storytelling. 

“Each dream is a seed from your imagination,” she said.

“Your hard work and determination are the soil and water it needs to grow. Don’t dim your light in fear of how bright you can shine. There is only one you in this world, and we need to hear your voice.”

As she looks ahead, Mosoma hopes that Khanyi’s story will encourage young readers to chase their own dreams.

“Just like Khanyi’s kite, take to the skies and soar,” she concluded. “Yes, there will be challenges along the way, but with love, a bit of Ubuntu and support, no foe can stop you.”