Zakes Mda is a South African author, playwright, and academic, known for his contributions to literature and the arts. Born on February 24, 1948, in Johannesburg, he has written several novels, plays, and essays that explore themes of identity, culture, and the complexities of post-apartheid South Africa. His notable works include Ways of Dying and The Heart of Redness. In addition to his writing, Mda has also been involved in academia, teaching at various universities, including Wits University and Ohio University. His work has earned him numerous awards, making him a prominent figure in contemporary South African literature.