Maseru-based Zimbabwean author and journalist, Mimi Machakaire, continues to captivate readers with her compelling storytelling and deep understanding of human emotions.
Her latest book, ‘Princess Gangster’, explores themes of love, mental health, and self-discovery.
The writer opened up to theReporter in an interview about her inspirations, writing, and the challenges she faced along the way.
Machakaire’s journey has been anything but ordinary. She began her writing career at a young age, fuelled by her love for storytelling and a desire to explore the world through words.
Her experiences as a journalist, coupled with her passion for research, have allowed her to craft narratives that resonate with readers on multiple levels.
‘Princess Gangster’ is a reflection of Machakaire’s teenage years, inspired by her observations of her peers during high school.
“At 17, I noticed how my classmates acted older than their age, pretending to have life figured out. I wanted to capture that essence in my writing,” She recalls.
This keen observation laid the groundwork for a story that delves into the complexities of adolescence, love, and mental health.
One of the standout characters in the book is Frankie, the lead male, who embodies a unique blend of excitement and vulnerability. Machakaire describes him as someone who seeks adventure but also craves stability.
“Frankie is different from other men; he doesn’t like routine. He thrives on new experiences, which makes him relatable and intriguing,” she explains. This character development showcases Machakaire’s ability to create multi-dimensional figures that reflect the struggles and desires of young adults.
The writing process for “Princess Gangster” was distinct from her previous works. Machakaire initially wrote the story by hand during her classes, filling an entire notebook before transitioning to a laptop.
“I had to copy everything onto my laptop because my school didn’t allow laptops in class. It was a challenge, but it also helped me retain the spontaneity of my ideas,” she shares.
This method not only preserved her creativity but also connected her to her younger self, making the writing process deeply personal.
Central to the narrative are themes of love and mental health, which Machakaire believes are universally relevant. “I wanted to explore how love and mental health intertwine, especially during the transition into adulthood,” she states.
The characters embark on a journey of self-discovery, navigating the highs and lows of relationships while grappling with their mental well-being. Through this exploration, Machakaire aims to foster open conversations about mental health, encouraging readers to seek help and support.
Targeting readers aged 16 and older, Machakaire hopes to connect with teenagers who may feel overwhelmed by societal pressures.
“I want my book to serve as a mirror for young adults, prompting them to reflect on their lives and seek help if needed. Parents can also gain insights into their children’s struggles,” she emphasizes. By addressing these themes, Machakaire aims to create a safe space for dialogue and understanding.
Throughout her writing journey, she has faced numerous challenges, particularly in getting her work published. After the initial release of “Princess Gangster” at 19, she encountered setbacks that tested her resolve.
“I had to decide whether to revive an old story or introduce new ones. It was a love letter to my 17-year-old self, reminding me that it’s okay to start over,” she reflects. The rewarding moments, she notes, come from seeing her work reach readers and spark conversations.
Balancing her writing career with other commitments has been a challenge for Machakaire. “I find time on quiet days when there aren’t many expectations of me,” she admits. This dedication to her craft is evident in her daily writing habits, which involve writing when inspiration strikes or setting deadlines for work-related projects.
“I don’t have specific rituals, but I make sure to carve out time for my writing,” she adds.
Looking to the future, Machakaire is excited about her plans to establish her own publishing company. “It’s a work in progress, but I want to create a platform for other writers to share their stories,” she reveals. Such ambition reflects her commitment to supporting fellow authors and promoting diverse voices in literature.
While there are no immediate plans for a book launch, Machakaire remains optimistic about the future. She has received positive feedback on her content, although she has faced criticism regarding cover designs in the past.
“I appreciate all feedback and strive to improve my work. It’s all part of the journey,” she states.
Influenced by authors like J.K. Rowling, Machakaire acknowledges that her writing style has evolved over the years.
“Rowling inspired me to write, but my experiences in journalism have shaped my narrative approach,” she explains. This blend of influences allows her to experiment with different genres, making her work diverse and engaging.
For aspiring writers, Machakaire offers sage advice: “Keep going, no matter what. Don’t let outside influences dull your creativity. Set aside time for your writing, even if it’s just 20 minutes a day.”
Her encouragement to embrace creativity as a vital part of life resonates deeply, reminding writers to pursue their passions unapologetically.
