From goals to beads: Footballer stuns with hidden craft talent
By Kelvin Kutinyo
Footballers are widely known to follow a routine of training, rest, and matchday preparation, a structured lifestyle centred around maintaining peak physical fitness and performance on the pitch.
Off the pitch, former Warriors captain Bukhosi ‘Zaku’ Sibanda showcases his artistic flair through beadwork designs that capture the cultural essence of South Africa and Zimbabwe.
The former Bantu Rovers and Bulawayo Chiefs captain, recalls that he started making beadwork at a young age, noting that wire based beadwork was particularly challenging to master compared to the simpler needle and rope technique.
Bukhosi ‘Zaku’ Sibanda credits his father for passing on valuable skills that have paid off. He now sets his sights on showcasing his work globally.
“I was taught by my father who is a specialist in craft related works he learnt it at Mzilikazi craft school, we get the material in South Africa. I am planning to exhibit my works at the upcoming trade fair, so far I’ve managed to make a lot of bowels, cups, armbands so that I may exhibit my items.”
“During my spare time, that is after training, I make my products but first there is the hardest moment whereby u have to brainstorm on which colours to blend and mix so that I can come up with something presentable. A lot of people have shown interest in my products some request for pictures and purchase”, said Bukhosi Sibanda.
The 29-year-old is hailed as one of Bulawayo’s finest midfielders, with an impressive record that includes becoming the second top goal scorer in the Zimbabwe league. This achievement is notable given his truncated season, having played only the first leg before moving to South Africa to join Ubuntu Cape Town.
Councillor Rendani Moyo applauded the initiative, urging other youths to emulate it as a way to avoid substance abuse and focus on positive pursuits.
“He should keep on keeping on. The diversification into arts is a good move (multiple streams of income) . I want to encourage young people to pursue sport as a way of staying away from substance abuse and making use of our God given talents . Among my other duties I’m also a board member at Bulawayo City Football Club which is in division one. We are always looking for young talent across the city so interested budding footballers should come forward,” said Cllr Moyo.
He revealed that his mother and brother are also skilled craftsmen, known for sculptures and particularly strong in painting, contributing to the family’s artistic talent.
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