By Noncedo Shabangu (Intern)
SGANGENI – In a quiet corner of Sgangeni, the rhythmic sparks of a welding machine now echo where beats once played. For 28-year-old Khayelihle Masuku, known by his artistic name Elihle Lokhutsatanako, the journey from music studios to metal workshops has been nothing short of inspiring.
A graduate in Music Design from Limkokwing University, Masuku once dreamed of crafting hit songs and soundscapes. “Music has always been in my heart,” he shared. “It’s why I chose to study it—I wanted to live it.”
But when the doors to the music industry didn’t open, Masuku didn’t stop. He rewrote his future with sparks and steel. “I first learned welding in 2019, even before university,” he said. “YouTube was my teacher. After graduation, when music jobs were scarce, I returned to welding with purpose.”
It wasn’t easy. Starting without proper tools, Masuku took on small jobs—anything that could help him save. “I did peace jobs just to buy the basics,” he said. Slowly, he built a foundation, and today, he owns a welding business in Sgangeni. With one assistant by his side, he now crafts gates, window frames, burglar doors—and has his sights set on furniture design.
He’s not done learning. “I still need key tools like a big grinder, a circular saw, and a drill to grow into furniture-making,” he said. “But I’m getting there.”
His determination has turned doubters into believers. “People didn’t think I’d succeed because I wasn’t formally trained,” Masuku admitted. “But now, my work speaks louder than their doubts.”
While his music dreams are on pause, his passion hasn’t faded. “Every skill has its season,” he smiled. “Right now, welding is my bread and butter—but I know my music will have its time too.”
Masuku’s story is a powerful message to the youth: “When your first plan doesn’t work, don’t give up. Find another skill. Keep going. Keep believing.”
In the heart of Sgangeni, sparks of hope fly from Khayelihle Masuku’s workshop—proof that resilience and positivity can turn any challenge into opportunity.
