About the Author

Chatowa Shaun Chibesakunda is an 11-year-old passionate storyteller who believes in the transformative power of words to shape hearts, minds, and societies.

Purpose & Passion

He writes because he cares about stories and the people behind them. His work aims to give hope, reflect real life, and speak for the voiceless. Inspired by his mother, Chatowa views writing as a powerful way to share, question, and preserve cultural experiences.

Writing & Community

He wishes to connect with fiction writers, poets, and non-fiction authors who share his passion for African literature and global empowerment.

Nationality & Education

Chatowa is a Zambian based in Lusaka. He attends The International School of Lusaka, where the IB program sharpens his skills in English and storytelling.

Genres & Motivation

He writes fiction and fantasy due to their imaginative depth. Writing is his voice and way of understanding the world.

Inspiration

His greatest inspiration is his mother, whose love for books motivated him to write. His father’s bedtime stories and writers like Mark Twain, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, and Shakespeare also influence his craft.

Challenges & Growth

Balancing school, sports, and writing is tough. Publishing access and limited peer interest in writing have also been obstacles. Yet, he handles criticism with maturity, seeing it as a path to improvement.

Achievements & Future Goals

His book The Secret Gemstone is his proudest work. He aspires to grow beyond it by improving continuously and inspiring others. His dream is to raise awareness on issues like mental health, climate change, and poverty through literature.

Impact & Recognition

He ensures accessibility by writing for all ages and stepping into his readers’ shoes. Through book sales, he has begun to generate income toward future education. In 2025, he placed 23rd nationally in the Zambia National Debating League.

Vision for Zambia

He calls for more institutional support, mentorship programs, and better platforms for Zambian literature to thrive locally and globally.