The path of a transfer student is rarely without its hurdles, but for University of Johannesburg (UJ) alumna Lerato Matobako, navigating a non-linear path was exactly what unlocked her potential as a future leader in the creative industry. Graduating with a Bachelor of Arts Honours degree in Multimedia Design from the Faculty of Art, Design and Architecture (FADA), Lerato’s story is a hopeful reminder of how grit and purpose can transform challenges into a launchpad for continental impact.
For Lerato, taking that symbolic walk across the UJ graduation stage was a deeply felt victory; an acknowledgment of the sheer perseverance it took to reach the finish line.
“Walking across the graduation stage was a deeply emotional and proud moment for me. It felt like a full-circle experience; every challenge, every late night, every moment of doubt led up to that one step forward. I felt proud of how far I’ve come, especially knowing that my journey wasn’t always easy. It was a moment of quiet reflection and gratitude, but also a powerful reminder that I am capable of achieving anything I set my mind to,” she shares.
Reflecting on her degree, Lerato sees it as far more than an academic milestone. For her, it represents a mandate to drive meaningful change across the African continent:
“This qualification represents more than just academic achievement; it reflects my ability to think critically, design with purpose, and use technology as a tool for real-world impact. Studying Multimedia Design has positioned me at the intersection of creativity and innovation, where I can actively contribute to shaping the tech space in Africa. It has equipped me with the skills to not only adapt to rapid technological change, but to be part of the generation that drives it, building solutions that are relevant, inclusive, and transformative for our communities.”
Lerato’s success is tightly bound to her growth at UJ, though her initial steps on campus required immense adaptability. Coming in from the outside, she had to build her confidence from the ground up.
“My journey at UJ was not linear; it was quite rocky at the beginning, especially as a transfer student trying to find my footing in a new environment. However, that very challenge pushed me to adapt, grow, and become more resilient. The environment at UJ, along with the resources and tools I had access to, played a significant role in shaping my development. Over time, I found my confidence, refined my skills, and truly began to thrive. It was a journey of transformation that prepared me for both the creative industry and the realities of innovation,” she reflects.
As an alumna, Lerato is already focused on turning her academic work into a sustainable business that directly solves societal challenges. Alongside her team, she is preparing to leverage UJ’s advanced innovation infrastructure, specifically the UniPod (University Innovation Pod) and incubation resources, to scale their award-winning project, Latch, into a commercial lifesaver for South African mothers.
Her vision for the project doesn’t stop at the country’s borders. Looking ahead, Lerato is balancing high-level academic ambitions with global entrepreneurial goals:
“My future plans include pursuing a Master’s degree to further deepen my knowledge and expand my impact within the design and technology space. At the same time, I am committed to growing Latch into a globally recognised solution, one that not only supports mothers in South Africa but resonates with women around the world. I want to continue building solutions that sit at the intersection of design, empathy, and innovation, ultimately contributing to a more inclusive and forward-thinking tech ecosystem.”
Having successfully conquered the rocky beginnings of her own university path, Lerato leaves behind practical guidance for the first-year students entering UJ’s FADA corridors. Her message is a call to step boldly into their potential:
“My advice would be to stay curious, stay resilient, and don’t be afraid to stand out. Your journey won’t always be smooth, but growth often comes from discomfort. Make full use of the resources available to you, ask questions, collaborate with others, and trust your creative voice. Most importantly, don’t limit yourself because what you create here has the potential to go far beyond the classroom.”
