From Passion to Creation

Thembelani’s interest in cars goes beyond admiration. He has always wanted to create a car of his own from scratch, from when he was a little boy. Although he faced challenges in subjects like maths and science, his fascination with engineering grew organically over time. To pursue this interest, he began designing his own inventions and working with materials that were easily accessible.

Building a Car from Scratch Without a Workshop

This innovation was not an easy feat at all for this young man! The design process began when Thembelani was 19, and he has spent the past six years working on the project. He sought help from his local community to acquire materials, including old zinc steel. Through determination, he has worked on this project at his rural home in Bergville, using an open space without a fully equipped workshop. Despite the limitations of his working environment, he continued developing his project over several years, relying on patience, determination and the resources available to him. Having completed the car, Thembelani now hopes to receive support to establish a proper workshop where he can improve his work and continue developing his idea.

What are the future projects for Thembelani?

Thembelani’s ambitions extend beyond building a car. He has established a company with his brother, Mlekeleli Zondo, who was previously studying mechanical engineering at Durban University of Technology (DUT), but financial challenges prevented him from completing his studies. He then grabbed an opportunity to begin a millwright apprenticeship at a steel company and plans to return to DUT to complete his mechanical engineering qualification once he finishes his apprenticeship.

When asked about pursuing higher education himself, Thembelani expressed interest in the possibility, should an opportunity arise. For now, he is focused on developing the project and exploring what he can achieve through his own work. Beyond the car, Thembelani has worked on other projects, including an electric hand that could potentially assist people with disabilities. His work reflects a growing interest in creating practical inventions that could make a difference in people’s lives.

A Social Media Response That Calls for Support

The response to Thembelani’s project has extended beyond people simply admiring the car, with many tagging the likes of Toyota, Bugatti, Porsche and VW to get them to notice this young talent!

On Instagram, viewers shared messages of encouragement, praised his talent and called for support for people with practical skills. Some commenters pointed to the barriers that can make it difficult for talented individuals to enter certain industries without qualifications or access to resources. The discussion reflects a wider interest in how practical ability, experience and formal education can work together. We all know that qualifications can provide important technical knowledge and career opportunities. His journey has prompted viewers to consider how talent outside traditional education pathways can also be recognised and developed.

Potential Recognition for Thembelani’s Innovation

Thembelani’s project has attracted interest beyond social media. In a comment on Life Reset with Boni’s Instagram post, Professor Anil Gupta suggested that it be considered for the HBNCRIA Global Awards for Innovations through GIAN, an India-based initiative supporting grassroots innovation. While no nomination has been confirmed, the suggestion highlights the growing interest in seeing Thembelani’s work recognised and supported on a broader platform.

You can view the video below and join the conversation!

Conclusion:

Speaking to Thembelani’s parents, they expressed their hope that he will achieve the success he deserves. They described him as a well-behaved young man who spends much of his time at home, dedicated to his dream project.

Thembelani’s journey is an inspiring example of what passion, patience and determination can achieve. Building a car without formal training or a proper workshop is no small undertaking, and his story has encouraged many people to recognise and support practical talent. As he continues developing his ideas through Exceptional Innovations, access to a workshop, resources and the right opportunities could help him take the next steps. We wish Thembelani and his brother every success as they continue pursuing their vision.

Editor’s Note: Thembelani’s story has attracted attention from people who believe young South Africans with practical skills and innovative ideas deserve opportunities to develop their talents. His journey is a reminder of the importance of recognising potential and supporting innovation wherever it begins. We have more stories like these on this platform; you can view them here!

Written by Neo Khoza

Intern | Research & Analysis

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