Books saved me from drug addiction | Philani Dladla | TEDxJohannesburg

This talk was given at a local TEDx event, produced independently of the TED Conferences. Philani Dladla has gone from being a drug addict, to being homeless, to being an entrepreneur and a philanthropist in his own right. Known as the Pavement Bookworm, books have literally saved his life. In this inspiring TEDxJohannesburg 2014 Talk, he tells a story that will tear you apart and lift you up all at once.

A force of surefire optimism with a passion for reading and delivering off-the-cuff synopses, Philani Dladla fell in love with books at the age of eleven. Dladla has used books to overcome his drug addiction, and create a life and name for himself as an entrepreneur and a philanthropist.

Philani on Twitter: @BookVsDruggs
Web: http://www.pavementbookworm.co.za

About TEDx, x = independently organized event In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TEDTalks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self-organized.* (*Subject to certain rules and regulations)