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Free State transplant survivor shortlisted for African debut-author award

Henry Du Plessis, a 27-year-old teacher and kidney transplant survivor from Bethlehem in the Free State, is one of eight finalists for Best Debut Author at the African Authors Recognition Awards...

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Free State transplant survivor shortlisted for African debut-author award
Newzroom dot Africa

Henry Du Plessis, 27, a South African teacher from Bethlehem in the Free State and a kidney transplant survivor, is one of eight finalists for Best Debut Author at the African Authors Recognition Awards (AARA) 2026. Public voting closes on 20 November 2026.

Du Plessis was diagnosed with kidney failure at 18 and relied on dialysis. His first transplant did not function; in 2019 his mother donated a kidney.

My Lewe in 'n Hartklop is a debut Afrikaans memoir that Du Plessis says reflects on faith, family, organ donation and the struggle for a second chance. He offered to supply a portrait, the book cover and proof of his nomination for use with coverage.

AARA says it was founded in 2025 by Victoria Haihambo and Marcia Chavunduka. Its call for entries listed a submission deadline of 31 July 2026, and an online authors exhibition on the Agelvipa marketplace opened on 26 September 2026.

Newzroom dot Africa has reached out to Henry du Plessis for comment and is awaiting a response. This story will be updated when they respond.

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