ELEANOR DOUGLAS-MEYERS
Zenizole Gqada, the celebrated GQ travel vlogger, is known for taking her audience on thrilling adventures around the globe. But recently, she’s embarked on a different kind of journey—one through the world of literature.
Shared Pages, Gqada’s newly launched book club, combines her love for travel with her passion for storytelling, offering a fresh way to explore new perspectives, cultures, and connections—all through the pages of a book.
“I’ve always been an avid reader,” Gqada explains. “But I could never find a book club that offered the kind of experience I was looking for. So, I created my own.” Shared Pages is more than just a book club; it’s a space where literature and travel intersect, inviting members to discuss books over wine, food, and great company.
Her first book selection, The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid, was chosen to spark rich conversation. “It’s a beautifully written story with complex characters and deep themes of love, ambition, and identity,” Gqada shares. “It’s the perfect way to kick off this new journey.”
The atmosphere at each Shared Pages meeting is designed to transport members, much like a good book or a great trip. With wine from Springfield Estate and floral arrangements by Floral Creations, the gatherings are meant to be immersive, creating an environment where conversation and connection can flourish.
“I see books as a form of travel,” Gqada says, drawing a parallel between her vlogging career and the book club. “Just as travel opens doors to new experiences, so do books. They offer a way to explore different worlds, all without leaving your seat.”
Shared Pages aims to do more than just celebrate books—it also seeks to build community. Gqada hopes participants walk away with a sense of connection and a deeper appreciation for both literature and travel. “It’s about creating a space where people can unwind, share stories, and make meaningful connections.”
Looking ahead, Gqada envisions Shared Pages growing into something even bigger—perhaps featuring themed travel experiences or meet-ups with authors. “There’s so much potential here,” she says with excitement. “I’m eager to see where this journey takes us.”
The first Shared Pages meeting will take place on April 5th at Bridge Street Brewery. Tickets are available on Quicket, with limited spots to maintain an intimate experience. Whether you’re a passionate reader or a traveler at heart, Zenizole’s book club offers a unique way to experience the world—one story at a time.
Leave a Reply