SCARS OF A SCIENTIST derive from how society tends to shape our destiny or our chosen career. I was very good in mathematics and science, hence, the scientist part in the title of the book.
In retrospect, I am passionate about people development and human behaviour. I wanted to pursue medicine purely because my mother dropped out from medical school (another scar that define me). I eventually settled for a science degree but if I had a choice, I would have completed a degree in humanities.
SCARS OF A SCIENTIST is meant to inspire those that failed on the first attempt to pursue their dreams and simply gave up keeping on trying because success and failure are intertwined.
I wanted to write a South African or Township story that people will identify with. I wanted to share the numerous times that I have failed and kept going to indicate it is possible to succeed when your mind is set on achieving a desired goal.
I want people, especially the youth to learn that there’s always a way to success and the universe also tends to bring people in your life to assist manifesting your dreams, thus it’s important to associate with like-minded people.
How did the book come about?
One of my friends is in school governing body and wanted someone to inspire matriculants before their final exams. I suggested a writer (who is now my publisher), a township lady that
I met when she used to work under my management as a till packer at Pick and Pay Rand Parkridge. When we introduced ourselves at that meeting, she was fascinated by our stories and suggested that we write books. I took the challenge head on; my other two friends have not started yet!
How has your upbringing lead to the book you have written?
The writing of the book was because of the meeting to motivate matriculants, I never imagined myself writing a book. I learned later in life that although I was raised in a three roomed house, I was much more privileged that other kids because I was blessed with attending proper schools and having a present mother and father as a support system.
Tell us about your early life to your role today
• Matriculated in Soweto, St Matthews high school.
• Achieved BSc degree (Microbiology & Biochemistry) from Potchefstroom University.
• International leadership development program (NQF level 
from GIBS.
• PGDip (NQF level from GIBS.
• MBA from GIBS.
How long did it take to write the book, research and the final product?
• Started writing from October 2024.
What are you hoping people will take away from the book?
• People should embrace failure as part of the learning process.
• Never give up or feel inadequate.
• They must be aware of the blessings they have and stop complaining.
• Identify and use the resources around them effectively.
What can we expect from you going forward since you started? when did you start the initiative exactly?
• Mentorship and coaching.
• Retail as a career of choice.
• I have been passionate about development for over 20yrs.
What are your words of advice for young people, particularly women to take that first step to write a book, start community projects or small businesses?
• I was convinced by someone to write my story down; I never saw myself as an author. My advice would be to just do it.
• People and women must pursue their passion without fear – they must follow their gut feeling.
What is the legacy that you would want to leave when you retire?
• Always doing the correct thing and being at service to the society at large.
How do you see the book DIRECTLY contributing to the community?
• I hope they identify with my journey and be inspired that one can achieve more if remain more resilient and never give up.
• That together we can achieve more.
What have been your highs and lows when writing this book?
• The highs were documenting my journey and leaving something for my kids to refer to.
• The lows were not being able to fit everything I wanted to share in this book.
When you not at work, what do you get up to, and where can people follow and BUY the book online?
I read a lot and spend time with my family. The book is not on digital platforms yet; I am still selling on hard copies.
Call Author: Hardy Sitshange, +27 83 482 3216
Email: shashasishange@gmail.com / hsitshange@pnp.co.za
