Do The Heart Work

Do The Heart Work is a Johannesburg-based journal-writing practice founded by author, speaker and journaling mentor Antoinette McDonald. Through workshops, retreats, online courses, one-to-one mentorship and thoughtfully created resources, Do The Heart Work invites people to slow down, listen inward and meet themselves honestly on the page.

Rooted in the belief that journaling is about far more than filling pages, Antoinette’s work explores how finding our words can help us find our voices. Journal writing can help us feel more deeply, remember what matters, make sense of our stories and live with greater courage, creativity and intention. Her warm, accessible approach combines storytelling, guided reflection and practical writing exercises to create spaces that feel both meaningful, creative and refreshingly human. No writing experience is needed—just curiosity and a willingness to begin.

African Journal Club is a growing community born from this same heart. It brings people together in welcoming spaces to put aside the noise, pick up a pen and reconnect: with themselves, with one another and with the rich stories of life on the African continent. Gatherings include guided journaling, meaningful conversation, creative workshops, online writing experiences and moments of reflection.

Together, Do The Heart Work and African Journal Club are building a culture of deeper living... one word, one page and one gathering at a time.