The Pavement Bookworm

the long version

Meet 24-year-old Philani Dladla who has one of the most inspiring young South African stories you're ever likely to encounter. An avid reader with an insatiable desire for knowledge, Philani has used his love for books to overcome drug addiction and change his lot in life - while trying to do the same for others. Growing up in rural KZN, Philani was a pre-teen when his mother's employer left him his book collection. His initiation under the Mandela Bridge, a place he would call home for years, was to share his clothes. He did, however, manage to keep his bag of books. Refusing to be just any other beggar on the streets of Johannesburg, he started reviewing them and selling them to motorists driving up Empire Road near Wits. He charged a price according to how he rated the work in question. His unique approach soon captured Jozi's attention and he became known as "the pavement bookworm". Documentary filmmaker Tebogo Malope interviewed him about his roadside bookstall and posted the video online where it went viral. And his life changed. Today Philani has achieved international acclaim and through his motivational speaking shares the power of reading and how it helped him overcome adversity. He has also started the Pavement Bookworm Foundation whose aim is to collect books and distribute them to underprivileged children in and around Johannesburg. He also runs book clubs for children from Joubert Park. Philani knows the power books have to change society and wants to share the gift with as many underprivileged children as possible through his story. It is a story that has the power to motivate and inspire and Philani needs your help in purchasing copies of his book to give away to literacy charities or charities as you see fit. Visit http://www.pavementbookworm.co.za/ for more information on Philani's ongoing work and projects.