The power of writing

Mariselle Stofberg
Caroline Kanghono and Intan Baaidjies

Angelina Norval is a talented 17 year old learner of WHS who is passionate about writing. She was the editor of the Blou Kudu, the school newspaper, in 2018 and 2019 and continues to share her skills and stories with those around her.

Her enthusiasm for writing started at a tender age. She entered many writing competitions and has received the love and support of her family since the beginning. Writing has always been something that Norval has loved and enjoyed doing.

Last year she was awarded the prize of the best journalist that was a part of the school newspaper project of My Zone, under the umbrella of Namibia Media Holdings (NMH). My Zone offers learners the opportunity to express themselves through writing, and this award was given during the year end function of NMH to give recognition to those learners and employees who excelled during the year.

“I was so surprised when I heard I was chosen as the best journalist, and I’m extremely grateful for this award.”

Her writing awards did not only start now, for she was already being recognised for her exceptional skills even at a very young age. Whilst she was in primary school, Norval entered a competition where she won best leader and innovative writer. As a writer she has faced many challenges. “There have been times when I had writers block, and simply have no idea where to start or what to write about, but this has never stopped me,” she added.

“I believe what makes a good writer is firstly your ability to read. You need to expand your vocabulary through reading, and that needs to be everything from reading books to newspapers. You also need to continuously practise your writing skills.”

Norval hopes to one day study journalism overseas in perhaps Canada or Ireland.

“What I love about writing is expressing myself and knowing that somewhere there is someone reading my work.”

Her advice to aspiring journalists would be to start with job shadowing, especially at a place like NMH, and to start writing for publications like The Zone where you have the opportunity to share your story in your voice.

Her favourite writers include Cassandra Claire and she loves reading fantasy novels. Her other hobbies include drawing and music.

“Through the newspaper project I have learnt a great deal of new skills and made so many friends.’

WHS is excited for her journey ahead and hopes to one day be able to read her won novels.