Cecilia Steyn's journey from community pharmacy administration to full-time writing is a testament to her passion and dedication.
Born in Welkom in the Free State, she spent fifteen years as a branch administrator at a community pharmacy in Klerksdorp.
In 2017, she made a bold decision to swap numbers for words, embarking on a new career as a full-time writer. This transition was not only a career change but a fulfillment of a long-held dream.
Literary Accolades and Achievements
Steyn's leap into the literary world quickly bore fruit. She has won two prestigious ATKV Woordveertjie awards for her books "Tienerharte 3: Hartedief" in 2017 and "PresiesAnders" in 2018.
Her success is further highlighted by popular titles such as "Die Meisie op die dak" and the "Lea Lief" series, which are especially cherished for their strong environmental and conservation themes. Steyn's writing, particularly in the youth genre, resonates with readers of all ages, cementing her place in South African literature.
A Life Rich with Stories and Family
Currently residing in a coastal town in the Eastern Cape with her husband, Johan, and their beloved Labrador, Oreo, Steyn finds inspiration in the beauty of the sea and nature.
She considers her greatest achievement to be motherhood, proudly raising two wonderful sons and welcoming a daughter-in-law. The characters in her stories now fill the void of her empty nest, providing her with endless material for her creative pursuits.
Early Influences and Personal Anecdotes
Growing up in a book-filled home, Steyn initially only admired the covers and illustrations of books. It wasn't until her thirties that she developed a love for reading.
Her vivid imagination was evident from childhood, where she enjoyed designing outfits, playing sports, and indulging in various creative activities. A memorable anecdote from her youth involves accidentally hitting her dog with a cricket bat while trying to catch a ball – a testament to her lively spirit and adventurous nature.
Balancing Creativity and Exploration
Steyn's life is a blend of creativity and exploration. When she's not writing, she enjoys interior decorating and giving old furniture new life. Her love for swimming persists, especially at the Mermaid Pool in Kayser’s Beach, where her family has a vacation home.
Well-traveled, Steyn has visited Greece, Dubai, and Turkey, broadening her horizons and enriching her storytelling. Despite her accomplishments, she maintains a humble fear of snakes and spiders and harbors a possible addiction to chocolate.
Cecilia Steyn's life is a rich tapestry of personal and professional achievements. From her early days in Welkom to becoming an award-winning author, her journey is one of passion, dedication, and boundless creativity. Her stories continue to captivate readers, and her life experiences add depth and authenticity to her writing, making her a cherished figure in the literary world.
Books Written by Cecilia Steyn
Sondag steel jy my hart Leisels na Liefde Stoppelbaardsoene in Santorini Die Dodelikste Donuts in die Heelal
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