By Neo Kolane
On April Fool’s Day, Mafeteng born and bred artist Tlotliso Sojane was not at all fooled. He received a call from South African actor Sello Maake-KaNcube, requesting him to design a logo for his new media production company.
At the request of the heavyweight actor, the logo was needed the following day because production of Tap Roots Media Project was airing soon.
Sojane narrated that the actor told him the show would be aired on DSTV’s Channel 103.
He says he was just given the name of the production company and was told to do the rest, that is, to work around it. Sojane, to his credit, managed to come up with a gold, orange and blue logo.
On the morning of April 3, Tlotliso wrote on his Facebook status that he could not wait to see his creation on One Magic screen with the show launching the evening of the same day.
The 24-year old creative told theReporter that he initially took up graphic design as a hobby, but realized after the call he had received that he can actually take it a step further.
He revealed that it all began with a counselor who goes by the name of Nthatisi Machema, for whom he designed a poster; that’s how he got the recognition in the neighbouring country.
“Machema linked me with South African producers, and they loved my work. I have also designed a logo for renowned South African gospel singer, Winnie Mashaba’s marketing company.
“My love for graphic design actually burgeoned during the first lockdown in 20202. But in the meantime, I am currently studying computer systems engineering.
“I work with anything design; business cards and anything to do with brand design. I also don’t have a company yet. Competition is very high out there, but what sets me apart from the rest is the quality of my work. My prices are also reasonable, while my marketing strategy on Facebook is simply above par,” he enthused.
Sojane noted that most graphic designers in the country are people with a lot of pride and snobbish tendencies, but he does not shy away from going door to door showing people what he has to offer.
“Graphic design is growing rapidly, most business are going digital and that’s where designing comes in handy. However, I would like to go to South Africa where there is an abundance of opportunities.”
Sojane has also worked with pharmacies and guest houses; he is currently involved with Individual entrepreneurs, doing designs for their businesses.
