With the country facing a tough economic climate, marked by high unemployment and poverty, one young man is using his artistic skills to fend off hardship.

Hulisani Maroge, a 20-year-old from Muledane in Thohoyandou, specialises in drawing, painting houses and floors, and creating stunning models of houses from cardboard boxes. He displays his artwork in the busy Thohoyandou CBD, where passersby can admire his unique skills.

His love of drawing began at an early age, but it was in high school that he started to focus on developing his talent. “It was during Grade 11 at Mukula Integrated School that my passion for the arts blossomed. My teachers assigned us various art projects, and mine would always be judged the best, earning top marks. This surprised my classmates as no one had formally taught me,” he said.

After completing Grade 12, like millions of other young people, he struggled to find permanent employment. “During that time of boredom, I revisited my old passion. I began spending time exploring different art forms,” he explained.

As people began to notice his work, they started buying his pieces. Some used his art for decoration, while others planned projects around it. “I started building a solid clientele base. My cardboard-box houses are in high demand from those needing similar plans for their own homes. I am also sought after for my beautiful and unique painting skills for walls and floors. God has blessed me with two able hands and the skills to make a living,” he said.

Maroge expressed gratitude for his situation, stating he had no reason to complain. “From what I earn from my clients, I can make a living. The support I receive is enormous. I have big plans for my business and would love to one day own a shop where my artwork can be displayed. To the youth of this country who are wasting time waiting for government employment, I say: stand up and use your God-given talents to create jobs for yourselves,” he said.