Parkwood teacher pens gritty, uplifting youth novel

Faeed Amardien, a 26-year-old teacher from Parkwood, is set to release his debut youth novel, Life is ʼn Biets, in August. 

Written in Kaaps Afrikaans, the book explores the hard realities of street life, loss, and identity - while offering readers a message of hope and survival.

Although he has written a few short stories in the past, Life is ʼn Biets marks Amardien’s first full-length novel.

“I’m really excited about this project and grateful to share this journey with others,” he said.

The inspiration behind the novel stems from Mr Amardien’s reflections on life in under-resourced communities like his own.

“Street life has always been a profound topic to engage with. It’s not something people talk about casually, but it demands attention. We must ask: Why? How did people end up here?” he said.

“My writing is inspired by people trying to survive - whether it's on the street, financially, emotionally, or spiritually. I’ve always remained mindful of the struggles working-class individuals on the Cape Flats endure daily.”

Born and raised in Parkwood, Mr Amardien understands the challenges of growing up in an area characterised by poverty and inequality.

“Being from Parkwood means you’re often a product of the have-nots - but that’s also shaped me into someone who makes conscious, informed life choices,” he shares.

Now a teacher at Plumstead High School, Mr Amardien has been teaching there for nearly five years.

“I started my teaching career at Plumstead, and the learners have played a big role in shaping me into the educator I am today. More importantly, I’m passionate about developing change agents who can impact our most vulnerable communities.”

Mr Amardien’s core message to youth is one of resilience and perseverance.

“The phrase ‘hard work pays off’ might sound cliché, but it’s true. If you commit wholeheartedly to something, the results will follow. But beyond that, having a support network is crucial. Without it, many young people lose sight of what really matters in the chaos around them.”

Rather than looking to celebrities or public figures, Mr Amardien finds inspiration in everyday people who overcome the odds. 

“I’m captivated by those who rise above their circumstances - even a ten-year-old who pushes through adversity. Those stories ground me and remind me to keep going,” he said.

The novel’s main character, Leonardo, grows up in a poor but loving home. When tragedy strikes and he loses both his father and younger brother in an accident, his life spirals.

Running away from home, he finds himself among a group of street dwellers. An older Englishman, Rodger, becomes a father figure to him. But when Rodger falls ill and ends up in hospital, Leonardo’s visit leads to an unexpected discovery that changes everything.

The book is published by NB Publishers, and the book launch is expected to take place, at Plumstead High School, during the week of Wednesday August 20.

“Final date and time to be confirmed,” said Mr Amardien.

For more information, or early access to the novel, call Mr Amardien can be contacted at 081 247 0619 or email amardien23@gmail.com