Nontokozo Mchunu

The desire to follow in his late father’s footsteps has led to Thabang Shinners owning a successful carpentry business at just the age of 22.

The proud owner of ‘ThaPlanka’ is a final year student at the Free State University, studying Bachelor of Computer Information Systems. He has made being a student and running a business on the side look fashionable and easy. The creative has been making laptop tables that are trending on social media attracting consumers all over South Africa.

“Doing assignments on my bed was what made me realize how much more convenient having a laptop table would be. I then searched on the internet for the tools I needed to make the laptop table,” Shinners explained.

Enhancing his skills with videos of woodworking, the young man says it all started when he taught himself how to install a PVC (Poly Vinyl Chloride) ceiling.

“Before going into carpentry last year I taught myself how to install PVC ceiling by watching videos on YouTube. The reason for that was the abnormal prices people were charging. I decided to give it a try and it was perfect. So far I have installed the pvc ceiling three times,” Shinners added.

A firm believer of taking risks, the young businessman seems to thrive even when faced with challenges.

“I work outside so the weather conditions can sometimes force me to take a day off. This results in more waiting periods for people to get their orders. I also have to balance my school work and business. Don’t be afraid to take risks hence my slogan “no risk, no story”. Make use of everything available to you,” he explained.

For Shinners this is just the beginning of the many life goals he plans to achieve. If he could make the wish of honoring his father come true in a year, imagine what he could achieve in just two.

Picture: Supplied