When not flashing a smile at motorists, offering oil and water checks and cleaning windscreens, Engen pump attendant, Ernest Mnyaka pens poetry, recently publishing his debut collection called Waphela Umda kaLoval.

Mnyaka, who has been employed at Engen Malmesbury for the past seven years, translates the title of his collection as “The end of the road for a thug.”   

And despite writing poetry for over ten years, he confesses that “getting my work published was beyond my wildest dreams.” 

Mnyaka has subsequently been invited to share his inspirational life lessons at speaking engagements at schools and on radio where he talks about the consequences of making wrong decisions and how he managed to turn his life around. 

“Through my poetry, I describes the many twists and turns that my life has taken, including time spent in jail and the many valuable lessons I have learnt over the years,” adds Mnyaka, who now views life as a second chance from God to start over and make a difference by inspiring the youth to make better choices. 

Engen Malmesbury owner, Gey Kriek says he and his team are incredibly proud of Ernest. 

“Ernest is a gentle person with a positive outlook on life. When I heard about his story and his dream of publishing his book of poetry, I was inspired to help and support him.” 

Waphela Umda kaLoval will be officially launched at Ningulethu Sports Centre at the end of October with copies available for puchase there or at Engen Malmesbury for R150. 

Engen wishes Ernest every success with his debut poetry collection and congratulates him for transforming his life and being a shining example in the community.