Do you know that old, discarded compact discs (CDs) can be brought back to life through creativity? Ask Dzulani Sidogi (19) of Tshitereke village, outside Thohoyandou, who has made a world cup model, prominently using the old CD’s.

Dzulani said he decided to create something to welcome the 2010 world cup to South Africa. "I felt that I really need to be part of this historic event. That is why I came up with something unique."

A self-taught artist, Dzulani collected old CDs, broke them and pasted them on an old board with glue. The model resembles the world map which is covered with oceans. He made the final touches by using paint and body filler. In the model, there is a picture of a soccer ball in South Africa.

The model, which took five months to assemble, is also armed with pictures of Nelson Mandela, President Thabo Mbeki, Kofi Anan, Seph Blatter, Carlos Pereira and Pitso Mosimane. Dzulani has also included the Big Five animals to show the pride of South Africa.

Dzulani says he wants to encourage other youths like him to use their talents effectively. "There is no use to hide our talents because God gave them to us for a reason. The youths of today engage themselves in criminal activities, drugs and prostitution. By utilizing our talents, we minimize the chances of finding ourselves locked in prisons."

However, the gifted artist, who has never made a cent through his art, says he would have made more impressive art, but shortage of material hinders his progress. "I will be happy if I can get a sponsor that will help me financially, to further my dreams. I also need someone who can help me in marketing my work both inside and outside the country."

Because Dzulani does not have a mobile phone, he can be contacted through his younger brother, Hulisani, at 076 105 1423 or he can alternatively be visited at his home, near Donald Fraser Hospital, on the eastern side of Vhufuli Post Office.