Ennerdale author Chantel Bloy is calling on businesses, organisations and community members to support her journey as she races to get her latest book, Anchored, printed ahead of its official launch on October 24.
For Bloy, publishing a book is about far more than seeing her name on the cover. As a self-published author, she carries the financial responsibility of the entire process and has been funding her work from her own pocket. With the launch approaching, printing remains one of the biggest hurdles standing between her manuscript and readers. She is now appealing for sponsorship and financial assistance towards the printing costs, hoping that individuals and businesses will help turn years of writing, determination and personal investment into a finished book.
Bloy has steadily built a name for herself through storytelling that goes beyond entertainment. Her writing is rooted in real-life experiences and addresses difficult issues affecting families and communities, including gender-based violence, youth vulnerability and the lasting effects of trauma. Rather than allowing those realities to define the ending, her work places a strong emphasis on hope, resilience, healing and restoration. Through her stories, she encourages readers to reflect on their own experiences and recognise that difficult chapters do not have to determine their future.
Her passion also stretches beyond her own books. Bloy has used her platform to promote literacy, reading, writing and authorship, particularly among young people. She believes storytelling can give people the confidence to find their voice, share their experiences and create new possibilities for themselves. Her work and community impact have not gone unnoticed. On August 15, Bloy was recognised among the Top 100 Influential Honourees of South Africa 2026 at the Influential Awards for her leadership, meaningful impact and contribution to society.
The recognition comes as she prepares for another important milestone — the launch of Anchored . With just weeks remaining before the October event, Bloy hopes sponsors will come forward to assist with getting copies printed in time. For her, the support would not only help publish a book but also strengthen a journey centred on using the written word to inspire and empower others.
Bloy also expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the sponsors, family, friends, community members and everyone who has supported her journey thus far. “Thank you to everyone who has supported me, believed in my work and walked this journey with me. Every contribution, word of encouragement and act of support has helped me reach this point, and I am truly grateful,” she said.
As October 24 draws closer, Bloy remains determined to see Anchored make its way from manuscript to print — and into the hands of readers.
