Personal Journey and Inspiration
Dr Muthoni: Sipokazi, let’s start with your journey in social work. What drew you to this field, and how has it shaped your life so far?
Sipokazi: Growing up, I was always attentive to people and deeply invested in their well-being. I often found myself in situations where I’d listen to people’s problems and offer advice. It felt fulfilling, like I was contributing to something greater. Over time, people began saying I’d make a great psychologist or social worker. That encouragement stayed with me.
Now, as a professional, I’ve grown into roles as a coach, mentor, and more. Social work has shown me the incredible changes I can inspire and opened my eyes to possibilities I never imagined.
Dr Muthoni: How has your faith influenced both your social work and your writing, especially in the context of South Africa’s challenges?
Sipokazi: My faith is the foundation of everything I do. It allows me to work from a place of love, which is essential when working with people, especially in challenging environments. Love helps me remain patient, merciful, and ethical, even when the job is tough.
For me, social work is not just a profession; it’s a divine assignment. Writing is the same—it’s a ministry. I don’t see myself as the best writer, but as a vessel for God to use. My focus is always on glorifying God and reflecting His love through my work.
Dr Muthoni: What inspired you to write Young & Crazy In Love With Jesus? Was there a particular moment or experience that sparked the idea?
Sipokazi: The book was purely inspired by the Holy Spirit. I never imagined myself as an author, but during my prayer times, the Holy Spirit whispered this idea to me. It was a journey of obedience from start to finish, guided by Him at every step.
About Young & Crazy In Love With Jesus
Dr Muthoni: Congratulations on winning the ACABA award for Content of the Year! How did it feel to receive that recognition?
Sipokazi: I was completely shocked! Competing against incredible authors from across Africa as a first-time writer felt surreal. That moment reminded me that this book was never about me—it’s God’s tool, and I’m privileged to be part of His agenda. Winning affirmed that God is serious about His plans for me, and it’s only the beginning of what He wants to accomplish through my writing.
Dr Muthoni: What message do you hope readers take away from Young & Crazy In Love With Jesus?
Sipokazi: I want readers to live lives that fully reflect the standards and magnificence of our Lord. My prayer is to end the misconception that Christianity is weak and inspire a culture where our lives boldly reveal Christ’s power and glory.
Dr Muthoni: Your title is so unique! What does it mean to be “young and crazy in love with Jesus” today?
Sipokazi: “Young” is not about age; it’s about a childlike attitude of faith and dependence on God, as Jesus taught in Matthew 18:3. “Crazy” means being unapologetically bold in your faith, surrendering to God’s plans without worrying about people’s opinions. “In love” reflects obedience, as Jesus said in John 14:15: “If you love me, obey my commandments.”
On the Impact of Your Work and Faith
Dr Muthoni: How do you see God working in the lives of the people you serve through social work?
Sipokazi: My faith helps me approach clients with love, not just professional courtesy. I see them as God sees them and let Him guide my interventions. It’s humbling to pray for them and witness God’s hand in their healing and transformation.
Dr Muthoni: South Africa faces many social challenges. What are some of the toughest issues you encounter, and how do you navigate them?
Sipokazi: Gender-based violence, child abuse, neglect, bullying, and poverty are some of the toughest. These issues can be overwhelming, but I’ve learned to surrender my work to God. It’s the only way I can stay effective without being consumed by the weight of these challenges.
Dr Muthoni: Do real-life stories from your work influence your writing?
Sipokazi: Absolutely. My next book, Standing With Her: You Are Enough, was inspired by women I’ve met—clients and colleagues. It’s a call for women to see themselves through God’s eyes and embrace their divine purpose.
On Winning the ACABA Book Award
Dr Muthoni: How has winning the ACABA award impacted your life and career?
Sipokazi: It’s made me more confident and intentional about my writing. The recognition opened doors, like my nomination for awards in South Africa and attending the Visionary African Women Summit in Kigali. I’m honoured to have received the Visionary African Women Recognition Award, which acknowledged my contributions to youth and women’s empowerment.
Dr Muthoni: What advice would you give to aspiring Christian writers in Africa?
Sipokazi: Don’t let doubt or others’ opinions hold you back. Your writing is a sacred part of God’s agenda. We have a responsibility to inspire, teach, and transform lives through literature. Represent God boldly in every sphere of life.
Vision for the Future
Dr Muthoni: Where do you see God leading you in your writing ministry?
Sipokazi: I believe God will take my work beyond Africa, using it to reach nations and reveal His glory. I hope to travel, teach, and transform lives through His Word. And, of course, I aim to pursue my PhD and continue growing as a vessel for His purposes.
Dr Muthoni: You’ve written other books too. Can you tell us about them?
Sipokazi: Yes! Standing With Her empowers women to embrace their divine identity. Heart of Surrender is a devotional journal to help people strengthen their relationship with God. And The Favoured Woman is a devotional reminding women of who God says they are.
Dr Muthoni: If you could give one message to the next generation about living for Christ, what would it be?
Sipokazi: Nothing is more important than God. Friends, family, wealth, or fame can never replace Him. Surrender to Him early—you’ll save yourself unnecessary pain and discover the fullness of His plans for you.
Quickfire Questions
- Scripture that keeps you grounded? Proverbs 3:5.
- A book that influenced you? Battlefield of the Mind by Joyce Meyer as a teen, and Atomic Habits by James Clear as an adult.
- How do you recharge? Thanksgiving prayers, music, and Apostle Joshua Selman’s sermons.
- Advice for combining career with ministry? Let God use your career as a tool for His kingdom. Live a life of surrender, and He’ll guide you.
