Glad Ngobeni (22) failed matric in 2020 and it was then that he decided to do something with his life. “My financial situation did not allow me to return to school, but I believed in my talent as an artist.” Ngobeni’s portraits and paintings come from pure talent which he says is in his blood and a gift from God. He is known for his art on household items, clothing, and especially shoes, rejuvenating old sneakers into decorated pieces of art.

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He said he started drawing when he was in primary school. His teachers used to ask him to assist them with drawings on the class chalkboard. “In high school in 2015, I started making money from it. Customers sent me pictures to draw them. But to me it’s not all about making money, this is in my veins, I want to show what God has given me on earth,” he added.He said one of his challenges is people that take advantage of him because of their relation to him.

“Some relatives expect me to draw or paint something for free just because we are from the same place. “Another challenge is that I am too far from Giyani, it is hard to get material for my art,” he added..“Some customers approach me without knowing what they want, so I paint from my own creativity. “But most come prepared, knowing what they want,” said this self-taught artist. Anyone interested in having their shoes decorated by Ngobeni, can contact him at 076 385 7359