Martin Leigh

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Author 

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Born and raised in Johannesburg, South Africa, Martin spent more than forty years immersed in the country that shaped his outlook and identity. After living in the United Kingdom for six years and Thailand for over fifteen, South Africa remains deeply rooted in his heart.

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A graduate of the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits), Martin witnessed South Africa’s historic transformation during the first democratic elections in 1994. Having seen, breathed, and lived the nation’s journey toward full democracy, he brings a unique personal perspective to his writing.

Martin has travelled widely across southern Africa — including Lesotho, Swaziland, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Mozambique, Namibia, and Botswana — gaining an appreciation for the region’s breadth and spirit. His teaching career in Thailand, where he has spent the past fifteen years instructing Math, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and English to Thai, Korean, and Chinese students, has further broadened his worldview.

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Martin continues to travel regularly between South Africa, the UK, and Asia, drawing inspiration from the contrasts and connections among these regions. Through his work, Martin hopes to offer readers a grounded, nuanced portrait of South Africa — one that acknowledges its challenges while celebrating its beauty, resilience, and promise.