About the Author...

  "From Cape Town to "The Big Apple"... New York City

I was born in a little town called Retreat, Cape Town, South Africa. I am the second eldest of four children, and by the guidance of my parents, Leslie and Joan de Jongh...and my Loving Wife, Kelly....I have learned to further understand my humanity to achieve “Self Success” through truth, valor, respect, faith, love and compassion. 

Despite the hardships of Apartheid, we finally got to have our first Democratic election in 1994, in which I proudly partook. We are now a United Rainbow Nation, making changes for the better. To appreciate the full beauty of South Africa, you need to visit Cape Town...the friendly and beautiful city by the sea, right on the Southern tip of Africa where the Indian and Atlantic oceans meet. Sekunjalo Kenako! meaning Now is the Time!!!

"The hand that give will always receive."

Based now in New York, I draw my inspiration from my extensive life lessons learned in my native South Africa and what I encountered here in the United States. My faith God is strong and un-movable...for I have walked through deep valleys of dark disappointment, both in relationships and in the ever- changing martial arts. You name the condition, I have been there. Many people say that they can write a book on what they have experienced; I just chose to stop saying it and do it. I have made many mistakes in my life, but have understood and accepted all of them. I would not be as rich in experience if it was not for my failures and adversity. I became a writer due to my circumstances, and in those moments, I made a promise to help others, who want to be helped and have an ear to listen, to overcome their adversities, whether it be through gesture of kind words, motivational sessions or writing. Many are so busy in the pursuit for achievement, recognition, fame, wealth, and good fortune that they forget the kind gesture of help, a simple "hello" or to take the time to talk or become an ear for another. It is a certain fact that we shall take no more out of this world, than what we brought into it, and that is nothing...and so we should use the time remaining, well and just for the purpose of greater good.

I will never doubt the gift and miracle of life, and how one's path is affected by our own "Will" of choice. When I failed, I failed trying, but never gave up. After all my tears, heartaches, and sorrow, I have found my lessons amidst the turmoil and darkness. And during moments of hope, I met many who contibuted to where I am today. Those names and faces was my pillar of strength, support and the fuel that kept me going, and today I journey to restore the hope and dreams of another...Giving Back.