This month I thought it would be great to interview up and coming writer and blogger: KATE BAULETH
This month I thought to it would be great to interview up and coming writer and blogger; KATE BAULETH. We took deep dive to see how she launched her writing career, the challenges she has faced and advice she has for other aspiring writers.
WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO START WRITING?
I genuinely can't pinpoint a specific inspiration but, as a child, I had always enjoyed reading. I started reading on my own at the age of 8, after my mom had bought me my first book at the age of 7. From reading those stories, I knew I wanted to create my own world too. But, what really sparked my interest in writing, believe it or not, was reading the newspaper after my mom was done reading it.
WHAT TOPICS DO YOU ENJOY WRITING ABOUT THE MOST?
I used to love writing articles based on my opinions on the world when I was younger. But I as I got older, I would say, articles with human interests. Specifically features on people making a difference or articles about entertainment and lifestyle. Sometimes I dabble in fashion but, rarely. I try to find what interests people have in the moment and lend my insights on the subject in question.
AS A YOUNG WOMAN, WHAT UNIQUE ANGLE ARE YOU ABLE TO APPROACH YOUR WRITING WITH?
I speak for myself when I say approaching a topic with empathy, because this might not be the case with every young woman in publishing. But, I like to put myself in the subject's shoes. Certain stories tend to be covered from a biased angle, while I try my best to approach things from a more sympathetic/empathetic standpoint to understand and portray the real message behind a story.
WHAT DO YOU THINK SETS YOU APART FROM OTHER WRITERS?
My lack of rigidity definitely sets me apart. I say this because as a journalist and writer, there is a theme and format that one needs to follow. However, I write what I feel, what makes sense to me and hopefully my work will be perceived the same way.
WHAT ARE SOME CHALLENGES YOU FACE AS A WRITER?
Again, it has to be my lack of rigidity. A lot of the times, I wish I stuck to the rules of writing but, unfortunately I don't remember them all. I am definitely not telling upcoming writers to go against the grain, but I believe in writing from the heart, therefore making writing easier and more enjoyable. Another challenge I face is the infamous "writer's/creative block", which surprisingly only happens when my time and daily life is centered around constant writing.
HOW DO YOU COME UP WITH FRESH CONTENT IDEAS?
I don't shy away from information. From reading, whether it be a book, magazine or newspaper, to watching movies, tv shows and YouTube videos or even listening to podcasts. In addition, I browse social media apps and extract information from conversations that I have with people. I try to stay as up-to-dated with what’s trending and what is relevant as much as possible.
WHAT ARE SOME WAYS YOU PROMOTE YOUR WORK?
Social media is my main source of advertising my work, mainly Instagram and WhatsApp. My Instagram has to be my first option because, that is where I have the most audience, however, WhatsApp plays a role too, as the spread of information is easier to forward rapidly. However, if my work is published in the newspaper, then more people are bound to see my work, without me having to do much promoting.
WHAT DO YOU THINK THE KEY IS IN BECOMING A SUCCESSFUL WRITER IN THIS GENERATION?
Relatability, credibility and versatility are among the few aspects that could help with being a successful writer. Networking is very important because, you will need sources and connections to get your writing published, credible or even sponsored. Last but not least, being a good writer. You don’t need to be an expert at the English language but being able to get your message across in a digestible way would do you a great deal. Even being a good writer in your native language is a great way to create an audience for yourself.
WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON THE FUTURE OF WRITING AND BLOGGING?
With the advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) and AI apps, it might make it harder to be a writer when there are apps doing the job for you but, I believe that there will be regulations put into place so that the use of AI is controlled, however, that is wishful thinking. That’s just one aspect of the challenges that writers may encounter. In general, I do believe that writing and blogging will be timeless, it is a form of communication which are important. In addition, the way we will be writing and blogging will probably change in order for us to appeal to our audiences according to the trends.
Any advice for aspiring writers?
Be yourself and let your personality shine through your writing. It’s easy to try and copy someone else’s writing, but at the end of the day it won’t be as fulfilling. It will eventually become tiring. Be Authentic!
Are there some local writers you try and learn from and emulate with your work?
Definitely! There are so many local writers that I find inspirational and they are as follows:
· Imãn Ayisha – she is a marvelous scriptwriter and she is publishing a fantasy novel in July.
· Inekela Inkono and Joan Mbago- they both write for Monochrome Magazine.
· James Kavendjaa – he is interning at Monochrome Magazine.
· Rivaldo Kavango writes great articles about the politics in Namibia.
· Rejoice Amutenya of Afterbreak Magazine.
· Mehafo Amunyela of Infinity Magazine.
· Ndiilokelwa Nthengwe – she has published 2 books and is an activist.
· Yanique Zimmer – I love his writing and the ability he has to create a world so captivating from absolutely anything
· Dir.Nga – they are brilliant scriptwriters, directors and videographers.
These are just from the top of my head, there are many more out there. If I had to mention then all, the list would be endless.
Kate has written some amazing pieces for theNamibian and Afterbreak Magazine. If you’d be interested in reading someof her work, make sure to visit: https://www.afterbreakmag.com/author/katebauleth/
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