Thami Khumalo

As a designer, I believe in creating products that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional, sustainable, and user-centered. I'm passionate about exploring the intersection of design, technology, and culture to create innovative solutions that positively impact people's lives. Through my work, I aim to push boundaries, challenge norms, and inspire meaningful connections between people and products.

Tutor - University of Johannesburg - Johannesburg

(2026-03)

I currently serve as a Tutor in the Department of Industrial Design at the University of Johannesburg, where I provide academic support and guidance to first-year students in Drawing Media 1 and Practice 1, as well as second-year students in Practice 2.

• Assisting students with design thinking, visual communication, drawing skills, project development, and studio-based learning
• Helping students build confidence and succeed in their coursework

Intern - Barrows Global - Durban

(2025-11 - 2026-01)

I was selected for this internship after winning the Checkers POS Design Competition. My role at Barrows focuses on CAD modelling, technical drafting, rendering, sketching, and concept development for retail and POS displays.

• Collaborating closely with the Durban manufacturing team by preparing accurate technical files, drawings, and presentation visuals that support production
• Strengthening communication, design thinking, and problem-solving abilities while working within a fast-paced and cross-provincial design environment

Job Shadowing - The Envisioneers

(2025-06 - 2025-06)

Completed a two-week job shadowing experience focused on industrial design and product development.

• Gaining exposure to the design process, prototyping techniques, and client presentation methods used in professional studio environments
• Observing collaborative workflows and learning about the integration of creativity, manufacturing, and business strategy within design practice

Industrial Designer - Active Concepts

(2024-05 - 2025-10)

Worked for Active Concepts on University holidays as an industrial designer. I was given tasks to create cnc cutting toolpaths and prototypes for design concepts designed by the manager.

• Contributing to a high experienced Active Concept team to build products for their clients
• Developing prototyping and manufacturing skills

Designer (Graduation Stool Project) - University of Johannesburg - Johannesburg

(2024-09 - 2025-12)

Worked part-time for the University in collaboration with another student to design and create a new graduation stool for the University's upcoming graduation ceremony.

• Creating a variety of sketches, research, idea communications, 3D modeling, and prototyping

Freelancer (Entrepreneur) - Madiifest Design Studio

(2024-06)

I currently work with HearTronix SA as their freelance designer, supporting a range of design projects across the business.

• Creating pricing booklets, posters, banners, and other marketing materials
• Providing feedback on display setups and visual hierarchy to improve customer engagement
• Designing and developing products such as gifting items, display stands, props, and other custom solutions
• Collaborating with AukoDesigns to merge their minimalistic puzzle designs with isiShweshwe African concept, creating culturally inspired puzzles
• Being responsible for the overall production of the colourful puzzle pieces

Roofing & Painting Assistant - Brossco

(2021-01 - 2023-12)

At Brossco I assisted in installing, repairing & maintaining roofs. I also assisted in painting & sealing roofs to protect them from damage & weathering.

• Overcoming fear of heights and learning the utmost importance of safety and life when working on the roof
• Learning to always wear Personal Protective Equipment when working on dangerous projects

Drawing Artist - Side Hustle

(2020-11 - 2022-12)

In Grade 10, I started using my drawing talent to make money. I would draw any creative arts including portraits, cars, flowers, and more.

• Fulfilling customer orders for portrait drawings as gifts for their loved ones

Church Volunteer - Christ Embassy Krugersdorp - Krugersdorp

(2018-01 - 2022-12)

I would walk around Krugersdorp and give out "Rhapsody Of Realities" books to people change their life and encourage them to come to church.

• Helping at church to cook food for the homeless children every Sunday

Engineering & Graphic Design Mentor/Tutor - High School Students

(2021-01 - 2023-12)

Since I was good at Engineering & Graphics Design (EGD), I helped students during my free time.

• Providing extra lessons to teach drawing techniques
• Helping students understand engineering drawings

Referee - Soccer Game Referee

(2023-01)

I volunteer to be a soccer game referee every time we play a tournament.

• Developing confidence and ability to manage and lead players, coaches, and the soccer game

BA Hons - Industrial Design - University of Johannesburg (2023-01 - 2026-12)

BA - Industrial Design - University of Johannesburg (2023-01 - 2025-12)

National Senior Certificate - Lantern School (2018-01 - 2022-12)