With support from the National Arts Council, Biblionef South Africa commissioned the publishing of Rosina’s Dream in English and translated it into four additional languages: isiXhosa, Afrikaans, isiZulu, and Setswana.
Written by Lorato Trok, this biography is aimed at upper primary school learners aged 9 to 12. It tells the story of Rosina Sedibane Modiba, a pioneering Black female athlete from Atteridgeville who broke racial barriers during apartheid.
We collaborated with New Africa Books, who ensured that the books were accurately translated, worked with experienced editors and proofreaders, and supervised the printing of 1,000 high-quality books. These books have been added to our book stock and are currently being distributed to rural and township schools, as well as literacy organisations, across South Africa.
This project allowed us to add a powerful, locally relevant story to our existing book collection in local languages. This promotes literacy and inclusion in communities where access to such books remains limited.
The Story of Rosina Sedibane Modiba
Rosina Sedibane grew up in Atteridgeville, west of Pretoria. In 1974, she began running competitively under the Bantu Athletics Federation. She was still a teenager when she started breaking records.
In March 1977, she became the first Black South African woman to win a gold medal at a multiracial provincial athletics event. She ran the 1,500 m in 2:09.8 at Pilditch Stadium, defeating Sonja Laxton, the white record holder at the time. Rosina’s performance challenged expectations and stood out in a country that did not welcome her success.
She continued competing and winning across South Africa and abroad, but her career was cut short at her peak when she slipped and injured her right knee. She later became a teacher and remained active in her community. In 2001, the former Laudium Technical College in Gauteng was officially renamed the Rosina Sedibane Modiba Sports School of Focused Learning to commemorate her achievements.
Why This Story Matters for Young Readers
Many South African children rarely come across books that reflect their own lives or communities. This story helps change that. It introduces young readers to a South African woman who followed her dream, even when opportunities were denied to her. Her achievements were overlooked for years, but her story now has a chance to inspire others.
The story is written by Lorato Trok, who specialises in biographies of South African figures whose contributions have been overlooked. It is based on direct interviews and careful research. The language is clear and accessible. The story encourages young readers to reflect on the themes of fairness, determination, and history.
Rosina’s Dream is more than a biography. It is a window into the past, and a mirror for children who need to see themselves in the books they read. It offers a rare and necessary story about perseverance, dignity, and the quiet strength of a South African woman who made her mark.
Through this project, Biblionef added an important voice to its collection of mother-tongue books and is placing it directly into the hands of children who are often left out of South Africa’s literary landscape.