Khotso Monyamane is a graphic designer and a co-owner of a company called GUGA.
The company’s aim is to re-brand African heritage through contemporary craft, with a long term mission of informing people outside African borders about modern Africa. Its products will be a reflection of time, space, identity and culture.
Khotso graduated in October 2016 with an Associate’s Degree in Graphic Design. During his studies at Limkokwing University, Khotso built his background in arts and craft to further explore design.
He shared what he has learned about the University’s style of teaching, the discovery of his inspiration and the plans he has for the future.
Since graphic design has always been his area of interest, Khotso started working on his portfolio from scratch. He said that through the University’s industry driven curriculum he was able to notice major changes in the field, particularly in how design has affected the expansive growth and development of new media.
“Everything is designed now. People look for and appreciate a good design, so it is important to always know industry trends and stay ahead.”
Khotso said the University’s teaching style enables students to explore their potential to the fullest, which often lead to limitless innovative concepts for projects.
Asked about achievements he is most proud of, he recounted that many of them were during his studies at the University.
“My projects were always among the top in class. I was motivated to learn, because the lecturers were supportive at every step of the way.”
In August 2016, he was awarded the ‘Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Paduka Dr Lim Kok Wing Award for Creativity and Innovation.’
“This award was a testament that my hard work finally paid off. Seeing how proud I made my parents and how far I have come, I’m truly grateful to have been a Limkokwing University student.”
Khotso acknowledged that over the eight years of Limkokwing University’s existence in Lesotho, the country has had an evident transformation.
“I believe this is the right University to move Lesotho forward as a developing nation. Right now the most highly employed graduates in the industry are from Limkokwing, because they are equipped with well-rounded skills and global mindsets.”
Commenting on what makes a great designer, he said one has to be willing to learn all the time and be able to take criticism.
“I have learned that many great designers started out humble. Their receptiveness made them grow, because they listened. The most important factor is to be humble.”
Khotso Monyamane is now focused on developing his brand. “In the future I would also like to help other graduates in Lesotho to start up their businesses as I did.”
