About The Book

Journey

A Journey of Transformation

"In Shifting Sands: Confessions of a Country Bumpkin" is an engaging and thought-provoking memoir that transcends the boundaries of personal storytelling. Written by Professor Leskey Cele, this book is a rich tapestry of humor, resilience, and wisdom, weaving together the author's personal experiences with the broader socio-political shifts in South Africa.

Depth

A Blend of Humor and Depth

One of the book's most captivating features is its humor, which adds a refreshing layer to its profound themes. The author’s ability to find the lighter side of life, even in the most challenging circumstances, makes this memoir not only relatable but also deeply human.

This memoir is more than just a personal account; it’s a powerful narrative about growth, identity, and hope. It reminds readers of the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of staying true to oneself, even in the face of adversity.

Why You’ll Love This Book

Triumph

Discover a heartfelt journey of resilience and perseverance as Professor Cele overcomes hardships, achieves academic excellence, and inspires readers with his powerful story of success against all odds.

Humour

Delight in Professor Cele's masterful use of humor, adding levity to poignant moments while painting vivid, entertaining portraits of life, culture, and the human experience with unforgettable charm.

Inspiration

Be inspired by a tale of determination and growth, proving that through passion, education, and hard work, it’s possible to break barriers and create a brighter future for all.

LESKEY MDUDUZI CELE

Professor of Physical Chemistry

Leskey Cele was born in 1964 and spent his childhood in a rural backwater of KwaZulu-Natal. He studied at the University of the North (now of Limpopo) where he obtained a Master’s degree in Chemistry, and also began his academic teaching career. He later moved to the University of Johannesburg where he added a PhD in Chemistry (specialising in Nanotechnology) to his qualifications. He is currently a Professor of Physical Chemistry at the Tshwane University of Technology. He is also a former chairman of the South African Nanotechnology Initiative (SANi), and has published several articles in this exacting field. In Shifting Sands is his first venture into nonacademic writing.

Book Reviews

What People Are Saying
Mmeli Ndwalane

The sands have certainly shifted a lot in the time it took to fashion a professor out of a simple country bumkin. His story, tinged with humour, describes his progress while at the same time showing in the background the momentous changes that overtook South Africa, the country of his birth.

Simphiwe Ngwane

"In shifting sands" by Prof LM Cele is an excellent piece of work, an exploration of what it means to reflect, to honour and to remember a journey on million miles. His narrations are stimulating and meditating on great memories. I don't know how many times I have laughed as I continue to read, I am truly captured by the sentiment of the author around what transpired in their honest relations with the character of the name "Queen G" and the pressure from the D10 flying squad. I think I can resonate well with the kind of dilemma he once encountered, and I truly applaud him for how he resorted to put the matter to rest. Im still reading through but I have No doubt that his historic reflection is very, very impressive and powerful.