Karavan Press has been shortlisted for the CANEX Prize for Publishing in Africa for In Silence My Heart Speaks by Thobeka Yose, which the judging panel, chaired by Prof. Egara Kabaji, describes as “a luminous memoir tackling mental health, abuse, betrayal, and sexual identity with honesty and defiance.”

The CANEX Prize for Publishing in Africa is aimed at celebrating and recognising the outstanding contributions of African publishers and authors to the literary world.  By celebrating both established and emerging publishers, it continues its mission to amplify African voices and perspectives in global literary conversations.

The winner will be announced at the CANEX Weekend in Algiers, Algeria, from 4 – 10 September 2025, which will bring together publishers, authors, and literary enthusiasts from across the continent to celebrate African publishing excellence.

Congratulations to Thobeka Yose and Karavan Press, and to all other authors and publishers shortlisted for this prestigious award.

For more information: https://brittlepaper.com/2025/07/2025-canex-prize-african-publishers-longlisted-for-28000-award/

For rights queries: catrina@catrinawessels.com

About the book

In Silence My Heart Speaks

I show my scars now with pride because I survived. This is me owning my story, all of it, the good and the bad.

A searing and brave memoir chronicling the author’s resilience, compassion and growth as she moves from a childhood of trauma, through the challenges of dealing with the early loss of her beloved husband and becoming a single parent as well as subsequently accompanying her child on a difficult journey of self-discovery, to a life of acceptance and forgiveness. Thobeka Yose confronts the taboos surrounding mental health, abuse, betrayal and sexual identity with fearless honesty, kindness and understanding that will inspire countless others.

About the author:

Hailing from Bizana, Eastern Cape, THOBEKA YOSE cultivated a love for storytelling in the fertile soil of primary school. Initially drawn to the corporate world, she pursued studies in marketing and business. However, the allure of narrative proved irresistible, prompting Thobeka to embark on a writer’s journey. She has edited and contributed to publications locally and internationally. Prior to the pandemic, Thobeka’s repertoire expanded into the realm of audio storytelling. As producer of ‘Touch Down With Top Women’ for Top Radio, she captivated audiences across Africa and beyond with her year-long programme. The ink in her veins continues to flow. As Content Manager at Batazia, Thobeka empowers aspiring writers and publishers by facilitating the dissemination of their works on a global platform, encompassing diverse African languages. This role fuels her passion for language and the profound fulfilment it brings. Beyond the written word, Thobeka is a vocal advocate for women’s rights and a staunch opponent of gender-based violence. Her unwavering commitment has led her to address audiences at various women’s events. From the sun-drenched fields of Bizana to the global stage of storytelling and social activism, Thobeka’s journey continues to inspire and uplift.