A tattoo artist who has defied the odds
BREAKING all limitations and taking on social stigmas, Macalister Dalton Govindsamy has proven that one can defy the odds and achieve one’s dreams regardless of a debilitating illness.
The 24-year-old Chatsworth resident is a tattoo artist who always aspires to do better than his last inking.
He was diagnosed with Facioscapulohumeral Muscular Dystrophy (FSHD), which is characterised by muscle weakness and wasting, from birth.
The condition gets its name from the muscles that are affected most often – those of the face, around the shoulder blades and in the upper arms.
He said the condition had worsened in his teen years.
By 13, the former Risecliff Secondary pupil began losing muscle strength in his upper arms, chest and stomach.
It affected his wrists and he was unable to lift his hand or clench his fist.
At age 20, Govindsamy’s condition worsened and led to muscle loss in the hip and a spinal deformity, which affected his ability to walk.
“in spite of my condition, my family and friends treated me like a regular person and their love and support made me stronger each day.
“Everyone has weaknesses but it’s in your weakness that you realise your inner strengths.
“You shouldn’t let your weaknesses overpower your ability to make your dreams a reality. It’s not about who you are now, it’s about who you are going to be.”
His love for tattoos began in Grade 7 with his interest being drawing cartoon characters.
After high school, he pursued business management studies but after six months he decided to follow his dreams of becoming a tattoo artist.
“I studied something for six months and I felt it just wasn’t me. I started tattooing in a wendy house with a home-made tattoo machine. It was made from a toy car motor and a clutch pencil.”
Govindsamy did a short course to help him understand the art of tattooing in 2014. He then partnered with a professional tattoo artist and mentor, Gavin Naicker, “and the journey has been epic”.
“Gavin is my inspiration. He is a true artist in every sense and I have learnt a lot from him.”
Dubbed by friends as the “awesome tattooing twosome”, both artists have their own premises in Moorton, Chatsworth, and intend broadening their market.
The Sunday Tribune Herald watched Govindsamy, who is a sought-after artist, in action.
Asked if his condition hindered him in any way, he said: “It doesn’t affect my body in terms of pain. However, sometimes I do get tired and my only weakness is that I can’t stand when tattooing.”
“When I tattoo, I’m completely focused and it seems as if time stands still.”
His mother, Niri, described him as strong and determined.
“He doesn’t let his condition stop him from reaching for his goals and he regularly donates and helps organisations assisting underprivileged and sick children.”
Govindsamy recently partnered with a non-profit organisation to create awareness of FSHD.