Only she knows where she is in orbit with the Stars. But she has remained grounded and approachable and in touch with her humble roots which she has used as a launching pad to dizzing heights.

Considering her accomplishments, you could forgive her. She has an aura and cool, calm collected-ness and confidence that comes with people who are blessed with talent, humility and drive. We were both just beginning our respective journeys and I was humbled and inspired by her humble and focussed approach. My very first assignment was to interview her with regards to that nomination. In fact, her short story, Hitting Budapest (the first chapter), an extract from her debut, was nominated for the Caine Prize in African Writing in 2011. I first heard of NoViolet Bulawayo when I started writing for the South African Newspaper in London.

Richard Wright (Black Boy and Native Son) and Zora Neale Hurston, the awards namesakes, are two of the most influential black American authors. It is the first of its kind to be awarded to black American writers. The award is a literary prize awarded by the National Community of Black Writers. Little did I know I would be using them in this article. An article, on NoViolet Bulawayo talking about her craft, I stumbled on in the New Books magazine in my local library and I took the pictures.

Hitting Budapest by NoViolet Bulawayo