Swapping Social Media for Life Skills

With many teenagers spending much of their time on social media, author and evangelist Victoria Shilongo (29) has made it her goal to encourage them to read books that will equip them with life skills and a sense of purpose.

Shilongo has written and published three books which offer young minds the tools to handle life with confidence: ‘Flourish With Wisdom’, ‘Grow With Wisdom’, and ‘Think Big’.

Released in November 2024, Shilongo says her books cover important topics like emotional intelligence, setting smart goals, wellness and healthy living, activating creativity, innovation and climate change, financial literacy, and even entrepreneurship.

“They offer a holistic approach to personal growth. They don’t just teach young people what to think, but rather how to think critically, creatively and with purpose.”

In addition, Shilongo says the books are rooted in faith and guide young readers in building a strong Christian foundation, applying biblical principles to everyday life, and stepping into their God-given purpose.

Shilongo believes they “bring clarity and direction in a world filled with confusion”.

The author, who was born and raised at Oshakati West, fondly recalls stepping into her calling at the age of about 11 or 12.

“I didn’t know it then, but God was already showing me a glimpse of the gifts and talents He has given me.”

She says what started as simple babysitting slowly turned into a mini crèche, where she took great joy in teaching youngsters their ABCs, numbers and basic reading and writing.

“I realised learning is more fun and easier to remember when it feels like play. What seemed like simple games were actually helping the other children learn faster.”

Her calling, however, did not come easily, she says, but has been shaped by “pain, redemption and a deep hunger to see others thrive”.

“For years, I struggled with addiction – drugs, alcohol, pornography and sexual sin. I was involved in occult practices, caused by a deep emptiness and a desperate search for meaning. At my lowest point, I was found naked in the street where I was spiritually lost, mentally exhausted and emotionally broken.”

At that stage of her life, Shilongo says she had stopped reading and learning.

“My brain felt like it was shutting down. I truly lived the scripture: ‘My people perish for lack of knowledge’. But then something miraculous happened, the Lord Jesus saved me.

“I was born again. Slowly, I began to see clearly. He restored what had been lost. That’s why I wrote these books, to give young people the tools I never had.”

THE PUBLISHING JOURNEY

Shilongo’s books are published through Empower Souls Publishing and printed by John Meinert Printing.

“I’m especially grateful to Namdeb Diamond Corporation for supporting the printing of hundreds of books,” she says. “The process involved some refinements to align with corporate standards, but it was such a rewarding and humbling experience. I learned that purpose will take you out of your comfort zone, but it will also strengthen you.”

Shilongo is currently working on a new book, titled ‘Turn Brokenness to Purpose’, which explores personal transformation.

She also leads a youth ministry initiative called Youth on Fire, which engages young people from underprivileged and vulnerable backgrounds who lack access to safe spaces, mentorship and value-based guidance.

She believes every book a young person reads is an investment in their future and those of generations to come.

Shilongo’s books are available for N$150 each at retailers across the country.

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