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Ndivhuwo Nemutandani (24) of Tshisaulu Village was not going to allow poverty and unemployment to ruin his life. Instead, he took charge of his situation and used his creativity by starting to sculpt clay articles, which he now sells to the public to support himself.
Ndivhuwo discovered his artistic talent at a young age. His beautiful clay sculptures range from statuettes to cooking- and flowerpots. “Tourists also form part of my customer line-up, and this encourages me to work even harder, because the demand increases all the time.”
His creations flow from his childhood memories: stories of playing in the dongas created by cattle, or crossings and streams that evolved into clay crevasses or “mini canyons” he and the other herd boys of those days ventured through.
Although he initially thought of it as a dirty job, he had no real alternative. “I had a burning desire to improve my standard of life. I have taught myself to work hard, with dedication and persistence, and clay is now my source of income,” he said.
Ndivhuwo’s pottery creations sell at anything from R50 to R500, and in a busy month he can earn up to R3 000. “If the market is not doing well, I can at least make R1 500 per month, which is better than making nothing. Our country is full of opportunities and all of us can succeed in whatever we do, as long as we strive towards it and work hard in making our dreams a reality. You can start your own small business today; making clay pots, selling wild vegetables or wooden spoons, and within a short space of time, you will never be the same. Your unexplored skills can take you far and your life can change for the better,” he said.
These days he also helps young people to learn more about pottery and visits primary schools, where he encourages young learners to put their talents to use. “It is the time to work and reap the fruits of your labour,” Ndivhuwo said. “I know times are hard for young people, but so many people just sit at home while they really have magnificent talents. They need to tap into those hidden talents and creativity and see what happens. Wake up and create your own jobs because the State cannot provide all the unemployed people with jobs.”
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Ndivhuwo Nemutandani, photographed with some of his clay sculptures. Photo supplied.
By: Kaizer Nengovhela
Kaizer Nengovhela started writing stories for Limpopo Mirror in 2000. Prior to that he had a five year stint at Phala-Phala FM as sports presenter. In 2005 Kaizer received an award from the province's premier as Best Sports Presenter. The same year he was also nominated as Best Sports Reporter by the Makhado Municipality. Kaizer was awarded the Mathatha Tsedu award in 2014.
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