Johannes Wolfaardt
Writing from the Wounds of the Soul
“Stop trying to sound like a writer. Start telling the truth.”
These words by Johannes Wolfaardt, South African author, speaker, and storyteller, are more than advice; they’re the heartbeat of his journey.
With a background in community work, ministry, and public speaking, Johannes didn’t set out to become an author. Instead, writing found him during some of life’s darkest hours.
> “Writing started as a private outlet for pain and reflection. It became a way to make sense of the things I saw in others; and in myself.”
From Personal Pain to Public Purpose
His journey into authorship was born not out of ambition, but of a need to process pain; both his own and that of the people he serves. The defining moment came after a deeply personal loss when he wrote something deeply raw. A friend read it and responded, “You helped me feel less alone.”
That moment changed everything.
Struggling Stains: A Book for the Bruised
His debut book, Struggling Stains, explores invisible wounds; emotional, spiritual, and relational bruises that often go unnoticed.
> “The book is a story-driven reflection on pain, faith, and the tension between wanting healing and hiding scars.”
Inspired by real stories and ministry experiences, the book doesn't offer easy answers. Instead, it opens space for truth, honesty, and connection.
Themes That Matter
Through his writing, Johannes delivers messages that are heartfelt and soul-piercing:
You’re not the only one hurting.
God isn’t afraid of your mess.
Healing doesn’t mean forgetting.
Silence keeps wounds open; honesty helps them close.
These aren’t just lines. They’re lived truths.
Writing Rituals and Influences
Johannes is a notebook-first writer, crafting his work in early morning silence. He doesn’t chase word counts, but chases clarity and emotional truth.
> “If I feel nothing, I don’t write.”
His influences include C.S. Lewis for truth-telling, Henri Nouwen for spiritual depth, Eugene Peterson for poetic language, and the Psalms for their honesty.
From Page to Stage; and Screen
But the journey doesn’t stop with the book.
Johannes is currently working on:
A new book titled How to Be a Godly Husband
A theatre adaptation of Struggling Stains
A film version in development, with a possible release in 2026
> “If it costs you something to write, someone will feel something reading it.”
A South African Voice That Resonates
In today’s world; especially in South Africa, where hope and hardship often share the same space; storytelling is more powerful than ever.
> “It’s one of the only tools left that still carries trust. Storytelling helps us see each other again.”
Johannes believes that the world doesn’t need more perfection; it needs more truth.
Balancing Life and Words
When asked about work-life balance, Johannes says:
> “I don’t chase balance. I chase rhythm. When life gets loud, I write less. When my heart’s full, I write more.”
And when he's not writing? He'd probably be in counselling, pastoral care, or even farming; anything that involves real people and real stories.
Final Words for Aspiring Writers
“Your voice isn’t found; it’s revealed when you stop performing.”
“Tell the truth, even when it’s uncomfortable.”
Johannes believes that the most powerful stories are born in honesty, not perfection.
Where to Find Him
You can get a copy of Struggling Stains directly from Johannes or meet him at upcoming events.
His online presence is being rebuilt, but personal contact and email remain the best way to connect for now.
> “I don’t want to build a brand. I want to leave behind a trail of honest books that make people feel seen.”