Victory4Al’s director writes children’s book about JBay experience

Pieter Vos, the director of Victory4All, has authored a children’s book titled, “De Taxi van Oom Thando”.

This delightful book, written in his native Dutch, captures some of his cherished memories from his time in Jeffreys Bay and Humansdorp and beautifully explores the concept of ubuntu.

Discussing his book, which was published by Unravel Publishers in the Netherlands in December 2024, Vos shared that he drew inspiration from his childhood memories in Jeffreys Bay and Humansdorp, particularly his time spent with his late friend with the bright smile, Butha.

“The book is not about me, but rather a fictional story with a valuable lesson,” said Vos.

He said that Butha, the main character in the book, is a young boy who helps his Uncle Thando, who works as a taxi driver, on Saturdays.

Throughout the book, Butha has many fun adventures in his uncle’s taxi.

As part of the message of ubuntu, Vos said that Uncle Thando somehow always has room for one more in his taxi.

“The valuable lesson is that there is always room for one more. This is based on ubuntu. I am because we are. Even if you have few possessions, life becomes richer when shared with others,” said Vos.

One of the many beautiful stories within the book includes the story of Yolisa, Butha’s adoptive sister.

Vos said that Butha met Yolisa, who was homeless at the time, in his uncle’s taxi.

He mentioned that Butha’s parents later welcomed her into their home, and she became his sister.

“One of the pictures illustrated in the book shows Butha and his little sister, Yolisa, walking to school. I asked the illustrator, Bradford Marshall, from Gqeberha, to use our primary school building, King’s College, as inspiration,” said Vos.

Since publishing the book three months ago, he said that he has sold nearly 500 books in The Netherlands and Belgium.

Vos said that many people who have bought the book have visited South Africa and recognised the scenery.

He said that he has also sold the book to many South African families who have emigrated to the Netherlands and whose children are learning to speak and read Dutch.

Vos said that many people have shared that the story stirs up homesickness.

“I hope that the book teaches Dutch children about life in the townships. Life in Europe and The Netherlands is usually very comfortable, so it’s good for them to read and learn about children in other parts of the world who experience life differently,” said Vos.

He said that he is not yet certain about whether the book will be translated into English or any other language.

Vos further said that all proceeds from the book sales are donated to Victory4All.

“It was never my goal to make money from the book. Rather, the book promotes our work, so that more and more people are inspired to donate,” said Vos.

He said that many people who have bought the book have donated more than the price of the book.

Vos mentioned that recently, a buyer purchased the book for R2 000, even though the price is only R260.

For more information visit the Victory4All website at www.victory4all.com.