From security guard to visual arts graduate -Try Phoku proves that hard work and determination are key to achieving your dreams. This 24-year-old Rethabiseng resident wants to inspire others to use their God-given talents and dare to dream.

Phoku matriculated from Mpumelelo Secondary School. He always loved art and creating, but financial constraints forced him to enter the workforce after school.

He worked as a security guard, but his heart just wasn’t in it. He felt as if he were merely existing from day to day. It was only when he took out his art supplies that Phoku felt true fulfilment.

“I loved drawing and painting, and I would do it every chance I got. At night, I would sit at home and create art, bringing my ideas to life on paper.”

Phoku eventually followed his heart when he enrolled in art studies at the Tshwane University of Technology (TUT).

“It wasn’t easy balancing work and school, but I was determined to follow my dreams. I used the money I earned from my security job to support my family and pay for my education.

“It was a lot of hard work, but it was worth it. As I studied art, I became better at it, and people began to notice my work. They would stop me on the street, asking me to do commissions for them.”

Phoku’s social media following also grew, and he began receiving orders from people who loved his art.

“I was actually making a living just from my art, and it felt amazing,” explained Phoku.

When this father of two little girls, aged three and one, graduated from TUT, he was over the moon. His family was extremely proud of him.

With his degree in hand, Phoku knew it was time to take a leap of faith and pursue his passion full-time.

“I set up a studio in my home, and it quickly became my happy place. I spend hours there creating art and thinking about new ideas.

“I love every minute and am grateful to do what I love every day.”

Phoku admits that embarking on this road hasn’t always been easy.

“There were times when I doubted myself and wondered if I was making the right decision, but I kept going and my hard work paid off,” said Phoku.

“With hard work and determination, anything is possible. I believe everyone should follow their dreams, no matter how impossible they may seem.”

Phoku’s favourite art medium is pencil.

“I enjoy the shading I can achieve with pencil, as it makes my work – and me as an artist – unique compared to other artists and artworks,” he said.

Phoku encourages people to seek the meaning of art and to recognise the value in an artist’s work.

“Art pieces are more than mere decorations. They reflect an artist’s soul. People must look at an art piece as a form through which the artist expresses, explores, and shares themselves. Every artwork is unique,” explained Phoku.

To see more of Phoku’s work, visit his website at www.tryphokuarts.pixieset.com

Check out his Facebook profile, or follow him on Instagram (@try_phoku).