For Kamohelo Morobe, also known as Kadi Sabi, a career in graphic design began during his first year at university, when he started freelancing and began building his creative practice. Now based in Kaalfontein, between Midrand and Thembisa, South Africa, Morobe works as a Creative/Graphic Designer for media company Indaba Billboards & Media. His approach combines minimalistic design with a cultural art style, drawing on both digital tools and traditional materials.
Raised by a single parent in the township, Morobe says his background taught him gratitude and motivated him to become highly skilled at his craft. From finding inspiration on Pinterest and spending time outdoors to looking towards artists such as Jean-Michel Basquiat, Nelson Makamo and Polly Nor, his creative practice is shaped by a mixture of culture, art, music and everyday experiences. Here, Morobe discusses his journey into graphic design, the importance of persistence, the role of AI in the industry and what he believes sets exceptional creatives apart.
How did you first get into the industry?
I got into the industry first year of varsity, that’s when I started freelancing
Where are you based now and who do you work for?
I’m based in Kaalfontein (between Midrand & Thembisa). I work for a media company Indaba Billboards & Media.
What is your personal background and what role did it play in your career?
Raised by a single parent, grow up in the township, never had much, that taught me gratitude and inspired me to be really good at what I do.
If you weren’t in your current industry, what would you be doing?
I would be an extreme sport athlete (eg skateboarder)
Can you explain your creative process? What makes it unique?
There’s nothing unique about my process, I think about what I want to do then goto Pinterest for inspiration and take it from there.
How would you describe your style?
I have 2 styles, a design style: Minimalistic, and an art style: Cultural.
Which individuals do you gain inspiration from? Do you have any heroes in the industry?
I’m inspired by a lot of creatives but my top 3 rare: Jean-Michel Basquiat, Nelson Makamo and Polly Nor.
What tips would you give to aspiring creatives looking for work?
"You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take” the more you apply the higher your chances of landing something.
What tips would you give to other professionals to get more clients?
Create quality work all the time, that’ll lead to the client recommending you to potential clients.
Can you share a memorable experience from your career journey that shaped your approach to creativity?
The whole varsity experience taught me how to work under pressure and professionalism, i think that’s what shaped my approach to creativity.
What kind of tools/kit/software could you not do without?
Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, After Effects & Canvas, acrylics and oil pastels.
What’s your secret to staying inspired and motivated?
Being outdoors in nature with people + Music, Series, movies + Pinterest.
What’s the work achievement you’re most proud of?
I think I haven’t experienced it yet.
As someone with experience in the industry, what trends do you foresee shaping the future of creativity?
The integration of Ai in design software to shorten the process (it’s already started).
What do you think sets apart truly exceptional creatives from the rest of the pack?
2 things: 1. having a unique style 2. Good artists borrow; great artists steal.
How do you think technology has influenced the creative industries and how have you adapted to these changes?
Design and art went from being traditional to more digital. By doing both traditional and digital art & design.
What is the one thing that you would change about the industry?
If I could, I would make the barrier to entry talent and hard work over network (but I do understand the significates of networking)
Any websites, books or resources you would recommend?
I recommend CreativePool.
