ProVerb wins big at SA Writers’ Awards as his memoir earns top biography honour

Metro FM presenter, musician and author ProVerb has reached a major milestone in his literary journey after his memoir, The Book of ProVerb, was named Best Biography Book at the 2025 SA Writers’ Awards.

The multi-talented broadcaster described the recognition as a deeply humbling moment, stressing that the book was never written with accolades in mind. Instead, he said it came from a place of courage and honesty, driven by a need to tell his story without filters. For him, the win represents more than personal success. It is, as he explained, a shared victory with readers who have found pieces of their own lives reflected in his experiences.

“This feels less like a personal win and more like a shared moment with everyone who saw themselves in my story,” ProVerb said, noting that the acknowledgement affirmed the power of intentional and truthful storytelling.

The award arrives during what he describes as a reflective season in his life. Having moved through different chapters as an artist, radio personality, father, student and now author, ProVerb sees the moment as symbolic of coming full circle. He said the recognition validated his decision to pause, reflect and document his journey honestly, reminding him that growth is often quiet and shaped by introspection rather than noise.

Through The Book of ProVerb, the author set out to challenge the idea that public success equals a flawless life. He explained that many achievements often hide personal struggles, and his aim was to strip away the illusion of perfection. By openly sharing setbacks, failures and difficult moments, he hoped to show that challenges are just as much a part of progress as wins, and that a person’s past does not disqualify them from building a meaningful future.

ProVerb revealed that many readers have been particularly drawn to sections that explore failure, mental health struggles and rebuilding after loss. According to him, these themes resonate because they are deeply human, with readers often telling him they felt “seen, heard and understood” through his words.

Writing the memoir was an emotionally demanding process. He admitted that the hardest part was confronting himself honestly and revisiting painful experiences without softening the truth. Knowing that the story would live on with readers and his children made the process even heavier, but he believes the discomfort was a necessary step toward healing.

He also credited collaborator Sis Paballo Rampa for helping shape the final manuscript, saying her guidance brought structure and clarity while preserving his authentic voice. Penguin Random House, he added, played a vital role in transforming the manuscript into a polished and enduring work, offering the editorial rigour and belief needed to give the book purpose and longevity.

Looking ahead, ProVerb hopes readers walk away from The Book of ProVerb with the understanding that healing is not linear and that growth is possible regardless of where one starts. Sharing his story, he said, has been freeing, allowing him to let go of performative strength and stand firmly in truth. Ultimately, the journey has deepened his empathy and reinforced his belief that storytelling, when done with integrity, has the power to heal both the storyteller and the listener.