In 2008, Haroldene Tshienda’s world fell apart. In the span of a short time, she lost everything — her marriage, custody of her children, her job, her home, and her friends. She was dismissed, humiliated, dehumanized, and left homeless. The weight of loss was crushing, and illness soon followed. Thoughts of death became constant.
But in that dark valley, the Holy Spirit intervened. He led her to a day hospital, where a psychiatrist prayed for her. As he prayed, a light shone over her — and in that moment, she was instantly healed. What had been despair began to shift into determination.
With her life rededicated to Christ, Haroldene began fighting her internal battles with renewed strength. In just one year, God restored everything she had lost. Her counselor encouraged her to start journaling, and it became her healing lifeline — a place for poetry, letters to God, and reflections that slowly mended her heart.
Her book I Am Number 7 — her seventh title — tells her story. Haroldene is the last born of seven children, born in 1977. Her children were taken from her for seven years and returned without a single court fight. On the 7th of January 2021, her perpetrator asked for forgiveness before passing away. Throughout her journey, the number seven kept appearing — each time signaling elevation, renewal, and divine alignment.
It was during this season that God revealed the meaning of her name: Haroldene — warrior, queen, and ruler. This revelation became a turning point. She stepped fully into her calling, unstoppable and unapologetic about her story.
Today, Haroldene is a multi–award-winning author of ten books, four of which have been selected for libraries across South Africa. She is also the founding director of Shofar Books, a publishing and distribution company that has birthed thousands of books into the world. A true literary midwife, she continues to help others bring their stories to life — living proof that God can turn devastation into destiny.
