Overcoming the Storm

– Orlanzo Ragunandan launches book aimed at overcoming life’s struggles

When the harsh reality of being orphaned at age 13 grips the heart of a young child, the outcome often seem predictable. Most would say there are only two likely paths: growing up in an orphanage and struggling through life while longing for a parent’s love, or simply struggling – taking longer to find one’s way.

However, for Orlanzo Ragunandan, his story took a different turn. He has risen above the complexities of his past and penned a book that chronicles how he overcame the challenges that once defined him. And with the observance of Mental Health Awareness Month underway, he has chosen a creative outlet to shed light on this important issue through his book. Orlanzo Ragunandan is a first-time author and passionate storyteller whose memoir, Tempest: The Truth About the Storm – An Empowerment Journey, reveals the profound challenges he faced throughout his life. Drawing from experiences with childhood trauma, poverty, and loss, Ragunandan’s narrative stands as a compelling testament to resilience and the transformative power of faith and community. Born in Guyana, Ragunandan’s writing is characterised by vivid descriptions and heartfelt dialogue, often infused with the rich cadence of Guyanese Creole. His goal in sharing his story is not to seek fame but to empower others who have endured similar struggles. Motivated by a desire to connect and uplift, Ragunandan said he has re-examined his previously held belief that personal experiences should remain private. He now understands the universal nature of hardship and aims to provide a blueprint for others navigating their own storms. The book is divided into two parts — the first being his memoir, which offers an intimate look into his life, and the second serving as a plan for empowerment, focusing on skills and mindsets that readers can adopt to overcome life’s trials. Speaking to this publication in a recent interview, he shared that keeping in mind that this is Mental Health awareness month, he sought the need to bring awareness to mental health because part of the book focuses on mental health specifically. To top it off he mentioned that he knows many people who face difficult circumstances, and he knows that this book will bring aid to them in their distressing times.
“I know people who are in a similar position or worse situations. So, I wanted to inspire them that, regardless of the odds, they can amount to something. They just have to be disciplined. The book was inspired to create a blueprint for people to overcome some of life’s challenges.” Ragunandan revealed that the book took five years to complete — approximately four years of writing and one year to bring the hard copy to life. Through that process, he has continued to develop both personally and creatively. Amid this journey, Ragunandan made it clear that Tempest is not solely about orphans, but about people in general.
“I want them to have a victor’s mindset instead of a victim mindset. For me, regardless of your circumstances, once you have a victor’s mindset, you can overcome anything. And that’s for everyone, generally speaking.” He also noted that writing itself can be a powerful tool for healing. “Definitely [it is], because you get to internalise your thoughts and put them on paper. The more you write, the more you make sense of it. Writing is a part of the healing journey.”
Beyond his own story, Ragunandan has become a voice of encouragement for others to tell their own. “I encourage everyone to write a book, actually, because we all have a story within ourselves to learn from and be inspired by.”
Those interested in connecting with Orlanzo Ragunandan can contact him directly at +1 (592) 658-0316.
“I want it to be an experience. I don’t want them to just pick up a book. So, for now, they can contact me directly.”