Chapter One: An intimate literary experience with Haji Mohamed Dawjee

CHAPTER ONE is a curated series of intimate literary events designed to celebrate South Africa’s emerging and established voices within Cape Town’s book-loving community. Join an exclusive gathering of carefully selected guests for a thoughtful morning of reading, conversation and meaningful connection.
Each session includes a live author reading, engaging Q&A and refreshments, all hosted in a beautifully intimate setting.

What Makes Chapter One Different?
Unlike large literary festivals or traditional bookshop signings, Chapter One is built around intimacy.
With only 30 seats available, every guest has the opportunity to:

- Ask questions directly
- Experience the nuance of a live reading up close
- Connect with fellow readers in a genuine way
This is more than an event. It’s a shared story waiting to unfold.

Our inaugural guest is award-winning writer and cultural commentator Haji Mohamed Dawjee, who will be discussing her bestselling book Here’s the Thing.

Haji currently serves as Head Global Copywriter at Virgin Active South Africa, leading conceptual and narrative strategy for both local and international campaigns.

Her career spans influential roles including:
- Social Media Editor and Digital Editor at Mail & Guardian
- Creative at Ogilvy Digital
- Programme Director for Impact Africa
She is also the creator of the acclaimed podcast Don’t Shoot The Messenger, recognised by Apple Podcasts as a top global show, and a recipient of multiple Bookmark Awards.

Haji is the author of:
Sorry, Not Sorry (2018), longlisted for the Alan Paton Award and Here’s the Thing (2022), a #1 bestselling book in South Africa.

What’s Next?
Chapter One will continue throughout the year, with each edition spotlighting a different voice shaping South Africa’s literary landscape.

Date: 26 April 2026
Time: 11:00 - 13:00
Venue: Love Is Restaurant. Fynbos Lifestyle Estate, Sandown
Cost: R250 pp (includes Includes snacks and a hot or cold drink

More info:

Love Is Restaurant
Fynbos Lifestyle Estate
164 Tryall Road
Sandown
Milnerton