13 Apr 2026

Winnie Mpala’s autobiography, “Lea’s Secret”, is a poignant tale of childhood trauma, pain, and ultimately, restoration.

Using a pseudonym (Lea), Ms Mpala recounts her harrowing experiences, including a brutal rape at the age of 11 years by a close relative during a school music competition.

The book reveals how this traumatic event shaped her life, leading to two divorces and a life of silence.

“As a child, I felt alone and voiceless. The environment around me was not conducive to opening up, so I buried my pain,” Ms Mpala explains.”

Now 52, Ms Mpala found the courage to share her story, hoping to inspire others who have faced similar trauma.

As a teacher, she has encountered students with similar experiences, and her book is a testament to her newfound strength as a self-made counsellor.

“Lea’s Secret” is more than just a memoir, it is a message of hope and resilience,” said Ms Mpala, a native of Maun.

Ms Mpala plans to turn her book into a movie, pending funding, to amplify its impact.

“I want to be a voice for those who can’t speak up,” she said.

The book’s launch in 2022 marked a turning point, as Ms Mpala finally revealed her true identity, shocking friends and family, including her mother.

Mr Jeremiah Dikgang, a life coach who read the book, shares his thoughts.

“Lea’s Secret” is a heart-wrenching tale that shines a light on the plight of the girl child, particularly around sex exploitation and abuse.

I have seen first-hand the devastating impact of unreported trauma on women’s lives.

He said Ms Mpala’s story is a stark reminder that silence can be crippling.

“The book highlights how victims of sexual abuse often bleed into their relationships, affecting loved ones, colleagues, and even customers.

It is a sobering reality that many divorces and broken lives stem from unresolved trauma,” said Mr Dikgang.

What resonates deeply, said Mr Dikgang, is Ms Mpala’s cry for help, a lonely voice misunderstood and neglected.

“This book is a wake-up call for parents to create safe spaces for their girls to express themselves without fear of judgment.

To victims, Mr Dikgang said “Lea’s Secret” offers a message of hope and healing.

“It is a hand extended, a reminder that you are not alone in your pain. I urge everyone to read it, reflect, and take action.

Let us break the silence and support those who have been silenced for too long,” he said.

Teaching English at Nata Senior Secondary School, Ms Mpala is a well-decorated writer and poet. She is the author of three books, Lea’s Secret, Silent Echoes and Tween Tales: The Mystery of the Missing Sugar and Other Adventure.

She is also the founder of Colourful Chronicles magazine, a lifestyle online magazine

and Chief Executive Officer for the Timeless Voices Publishers.

Additionally, her poetry has been featured in the ‘Writing Woman Anthology, Poetry and Visual Art: An Anthology of African Asian Writers and Artists, Volume 3 (2023).’

Her contributions to literature are coupled with her role as an inspirational speaker. She has shared her wisdom and motivation at numerous summits, boot camps, and events, encouraging students and aspiring individuals to pursue their goals.

Her exceptional work has garnered numerous accolades, including nominations for the Zikomo Awards 2023 and a shortlist position for the Botswana Literature Awards 2023.

She received the African Honoree Authors’ Award in 2023 and was honoured with the Mulher Forte African Literature Award in 2024 for Best Novelist.ENDS