A pensioner, Mr Alfred Mulaudzi (74) of Gogobole is making a name for himself as a sculptor.
He is a retired railway worker in Louis Trichardt and started a new life in woodcarving after his retirement some years ago. Despite his age, Mulaudzi said that he was happy because he was contributing to the economic development of the country.
“It is not about money or fame. We have to strive to build our society, regardless of our age. I want to encourage my fellow pensioners to do something that will uplift their communities. Apart from keeping myself busy, I am acquiring new skills daily and this makes my mind stronger every day.”
He added that the more he kept on working, the more his body became healthy. “Being old does not mean that one cannot build one’s community. As elders, we have extensive knowledge that we must share with the youth for the development of our nation,” said the self-taught woodcarver during our interview.
“I believe that this will be a breakthrough for my career as thousands of people will be able to know about the good work that I'm doing in this little village. I have seen many sculptors who cannot even match my ability exhibiting their sculptures and getting media attention. I hope there will now be light at the end of the tunnel after working in the dark for more many years,” said Mulaudzi,
Although he has been in the competitive woodcarving industry for only three years, Mulaudzi has made his mark among the locals who appreciate his work and buy wooden items from him. Mulaudzi’s items range from coffee tables and wooden trays to watches and trophies.
He says he enjoys working alone, as he regards his job as more of a hobby than a moneymaking venture. “I need someone who can assist me in promoting my items nationally and by doing so I will be encouraging other pensioners to work hard to develop their own communities.”
