Poverty was always a huge obstacle to a high school pupil from Mugogo village outside Giyani.

As his family never owned a vehicle, Charles Khosa from had a dream of one day becoming a famous car designer. To prove that he has what it takes, he recently designed and built his own car. He proudly calls the car CKM 2, which represents his names, Charles Mavona Khosa.

Khosa (22) is in Grade 12 at Phayizi High School Khosa and enjoys maths and physical science. “I started building my car in 2009, using metal from damaged vehicles. It took me a long time to finish it, and I am now focusing on the roofing of the car,” he said.

He added that, every day after school, many pupils from the local schools surrounding his area come to his home to learn about his skills. He is a self-taught mechanic. “I’m not seeing myself as car builder only. I’m also a designer and a self-taught architect,” he added.

His father, Mr Ben Khosa, also confirms his son’s talent. “I want my child to go to university to get a proper education. The problem is that I am unemployed and will not be able to finance his studies,” he added.

The general manager of GY Promotions, Mr Errol Maluleke, who organised the 2012 Greater Giyani Show, said he was fascinated by Khosa’s talent. “I hope he will get help to further his studies. The country can only benefit from the young man’s talents,” said Maluleke.