Custom car job taking Roodepoort man on journey towards his ambitions

Innovating around what is perceivably possible, the youth mould the world to their vision.

An automobile can be a simple mode of transport to some, a declaration of freedom to others, but always an extension of the self. Using a Toyota Tazz as his canvas, Oefentse Mphatsoe has styled, screwed and stitched together a mechanical wonder from the depths of his imagination. Using his self-taught knowledge and a flair for the absurd, he has transformed his vehicle into a rare piece of art.

The body of his chariot is more than just a custom car job but an exploration of his inner capabilities through outward thinking. Roadworthy and fully licensed, the vehicle ticks every box necessary to avoid the scrutiny of the authorities. Inspired by automobile concept art, the shapes are as much a reflection of the way he sees the world. “I am not really a car person but I do love art,” admitted Oefentse.

The first aesthetic changes to the Tazz were the application of paint to the peeling rear spoiler. Since then the deconstruction of a refuse bin, the repurposing of household items and visits to the scrapyard have all contributed to the evolution of Oefentse and the car. With each step, Oefentse has learned something new, from how to wire the electrical circuits for the lights, to the use of power tools and the concepts of aerodynamic and structural design.

The ingenuity and creativity displayed by Oefentse may resonate with many young people whose ambitions are bursting to find avenues of expression. His determined self-teaching extends beyond the crafts and electronics of his car, but had also delved into the world of computers and the world of financial markets. In the same way his car was a work in progress, piece by piece he is building a skill set to conquer.

Having attempted several tertiary education courses, Oefentse found himself struggling to conform to the rigid confines of classroom learning. His refusal to allow his creativity and independence to be shackled by a cookie-cutter existence, he found himself using his time to design things which he would go home and create.

“I do know the importance of tertiary education; I’m not undermining that in any way, I just know it is not for everyone,” he said.

Now enrolled in a six-week welding course at Davidsonville-based skills development non-profit, Synergistic Covenant Network, Oefentse is focusing on manufacturing as way to build his income.

“If I can put these strange things together, I know I can sell them or lease them, depending on their utility,” said Oefentse, while showing off his handmade post-apocalyptic-styled watch.

The young designer’s plight is all too common as those with and without tertiary qualifications are struggling to find employment. “I think there are brilliant young people who are struggling to connect with the right decision-makers,” believed Oefentse. He hopes that the government can envision ways to build a competitive job market and make South Africa as a whole more competitive globally.

The 26-year-old refuses to leave his future at the hands of politicians and is doing what he can to build capital and glue together like-minded individuals who can propel each other forward. In a city that is hemorrhaging opportunities in a stagnating economy, a generation of young people are on their own. Only by letting go of obsolete thinking can inventive minds be allowed their chance to be the spark that ignites the industries of the future.