How 'Wanda the Brave' is encouraging young girls to own their identity

Meet Wanda and her beautiful head of curls and coils.

Wanda's story encourages young girls, particularly young black girls, to embrace themselves wholly and be brave enough to find their voices.

In Wanda the book, published in 2019, Wanda is deeply saddened by the boys in her school who tease her about her hair.

Until one day, when Wanda's grandmother lets her in on a few hair secrets and tells Wanda stories that give her the courage to face her fears, and realise that her hair is her crown, and something to take pride in.

In this second book, Wanda the Brave, Wanda is taking on new challenges, while still illuminating the powerful themes of identity, cultural pride and courage in the face of adversity.

"I think that's an honest reflection of how we find our own voice: within that negotiation of power, culture and how you see yourself," says author Sihle-isipho Nontshokweni.

Negotiating identity

Nontshokweni attended 12 different schools growing up because her parents were determined to have her attend the best schools. As a result, identity became difficult to discern.

Nontshokweni hopes that the story of Wanda the Brave will 'fan the flame' for young girls and women, encouraging them to "take up space in their honesty and authenticity".

Wanda the Brave tackles a bold topic in a colourfully crafted, relatable and age-appropriate way that is sure to encourage young girls. Wanda the Brave is a celebration of black girl power and a reminder that courage and friendship is a mighty force.

"It's the kind of book that children are going to grow with," says Nonsthokweni. "You have to be able to trust your own voice and let that come alive and be able to imprint on your honest self."

"Wanda does not forget what she wants and I think it's that little voice rising up and becoming more true and more believable to the person themselves, and I think that's the continued spirit of Wanda: the strength of your own voice."

"I'm bright. I'm brilliant. I'm beautiful and I'm wonderful, that's what she says."

The book is available nationwide in all leading retailers, as well as in the US, Canada and the UK.

All things Wanda are also available for purchase on the Wanda World website.

First published on News24.