Itumeleng Lebese
Itumeleng Lebese | |
|---|---|
 Itumeleng Lebese in 2026 | |
| Born | 19 July 2002[1] Mokopane, Limpopo, South Africa |
| Occupation | Writer |
| Nationality | South African |
| Alma mater | Nelson Mandela University[1] |
| Genre | Fiction |
| Notable works | Trouble in Diepsloot |
Itumeleng Lebese (born 19 July 2002) is a South African author whose fiction has been covered in national press reporting. She is best known for her novel Trouble in Diepsloot, which depicts township life through a fictional narrative.[2]
Early life and education
Itumeleng Lebese was born in Mokopane in Limpopo and raised in the township of Diepsloot, north of Johannesburg.[2]
She began writing poetry and short stories as a child, developing an early interest in storytelling.[2]
Lebese completed her secondary schooling at Kwena Molapo High School in Gauteng, where she excelled in languages including English and Sepedi.[2]
She went on to study public relations management at Nelson Mandela University.[3][1]
In 2025, she graduated with a qualification in public relations and communication, combining her academic training with her work as an author and advocate.[4]
Career
Lebese wrote her debut novel, Trouble in Diepsloot, while in her mid‑teens and published it independently in 2019. The novel draws on her observations of life in Diepsloot and the challenges faced by young township residents.[2] The book tells the story of a fictional teenage protagonist and addresses themes such as violence, crime, and community resilience.[2] novel attracted media attention for its portrayal of township life and youth experiences, highlighting social dynamics often overlooked in mainstream coverage.[2]
In addition to writing, Lebese has been involved in youth advocacy and mentorship programmes. She represented South African youth at an international event in London, and has used her PR and communication skills to support community development work.[4]
Selected works
Novels
- Trouble in Diepsloot (2019)
References
- ^ a b c "Itumeleng Lebese – Wikidata". Wikidata. Retrieved 31 January 2026.
- ^ a b c d e f g "18‑year‑old author writes a novel about the hardships of Diepsloot's residents". News24. 8 February 2021. Retrieved 31 January 2026.
- ^ "Changing lives with words – Final‑Year Public Relations student profile". Nelson Mandela University. Retrieved 31 January 2026.
- ^ a b "Author, Graduate and Changemaker: Support and Mentorship Shape Itumeleng's Story". Good Things Guy. Retrieved 31 January 2026.