From Springbok to Designer: My Unexpected Journey to UI/UX

Sawubona! (That's "hello" in Zulu, for those who haven't experienced the beauty of South Africa.)

You might be surprised to learn that my journey into web design started in the vibrant landscapes of South Africa. Growing up in a country with diverse cultures and stunning scenery shaped my appreciation for aesthetics and human connection.

South Africa, with its rich tapestry of life—from the rolling hills that inspire creativity to the iconic Table Mountain that captures the eye—has always fueled my imagination. The colors, sounds, and stories of everyday life instilled in me a profound love for both design and community.

As I absorbed the beauty around me, little did I know that this foundation would lead me into the tech world.

Then came September 2017. I found myself trading the familiar sights of South Africa for the bustling energy of Thailand. My mission was to teach, driven by a strong desire to make a difference and share knowledge with eager students.

The thrill of connecting with students and witnessing their "aha!" moments filled me with joy. Teaching empowered me, fostering both personal growth and collaboration.

But life has a funny way of steering us in unexpected directions. One day while exploring online creative outlets, I landed on my first website design project.

This moment changed everything for me.

As I navigated templates and layouts, something clicked. I ignited a passion for creating digital experiences that blend beauty and usability. Crafting interfaces that seamlessly guide users became my new obsession.

With every keystroke and pixel adjustment, my excitement grew. It felt like I was discovering a new language—a way to communicate visually in the digital landscape.

Now, I find myself diving headfirst into the world of web design, UI/UX, and user research with great enthusiasm. This new chapter of my life feels invigorating.

Though unconventional, my teaching background equipped me with valuable skills that translate beautifully into design.

Skills like empathy, clear communication, and a knack for understanding how people learn are now foundational to my design approach.

Every project invites me to step into the user's shoes, encouraging a deeper understanding of their needs. This insight drives my design choices, ensuring that each product is not just functional but enhances the user experience.

As I immerse myself in design principles, trends, and best practices, I also seize opportunities to connect with professionals in the field. Collaborating and sharing experiences with other designers energizes my journey.

This blog and my portfolio will chronicle my transition from the Sunsplash fields of South Africa to pixelated screens and vibrant interfaces.

You can expect insights into design trends—with statistics showing that 94% of first impressions are design-related. Case studies of my projects will highlight both successes and lessons learned, illustrating the importance of iterations and user feedback.

And I look forward to sharing stories from my adventures in Thailand that blend culture with creativity, showcasing a journey that ties my roots to my newfound passion through storytelling.

A vibrant landscape of South Africa where I grew up, filled with diverse cultures and breathtaking scenery.

As my interest in web design deepens, I recognize the significance of user-centered design. Understanding user behavior is vital in creating interfaces that resonate with and fulfill their needs.

The design process is not just about making things look nice; it’s about crafting meaningful experiences.

By prioritizing user research, I can identify pain points and motivations, leading to solutions that truly engage users. Those "aha!" moments I once valued as a teacher are now integral to my design philosophy.

The world of design is always evolving, much like the colorful streets I wandered through in South Africa and Thailand.

To stay ahead, I commit to continuous learning. Whether through online courses, design webinars, or browsing design websites, I am eager to grow my skills.

Platforms like Behance and Dribbble, where designers showcase their work, expose me to new ideas and innovative solutions. I strive to stay updated with emerging trends and technologies, ensuring I remain relevant in this fast-paced industry.

Reflecting on my path from the springbok-filled fields of South Africa to the world of digital design, I feel profound gratitude.

What began as a bold step turned into a passion that fuels my creativity and connection with others.

I invite you to join me through this blog as I share insights, project highlights, and stories that illuminate my unique journey.

Let’s explore the fascinating world of design together, bridging the gap between culture and creativity while staying grounded in the humanity that lies at the heart of every user experience.

Sawubona as we begin this adventure!