Phathu Nembilwi

Bold ideas require bold solutions and Phathu Nembilwi is as bold as they come! 

Having grown up in Thohoyandou, Limpopo, Phathu grew up having dreams of being a fashion designer but had a change of heart after completing high school. Starting out as a freelancer in 2018, she now works as a full-time graphic designer and illustrator with hopes of colouring the world with her colourful designs and big ideas. 

For Phathu, art functions as a tool to address societal issues and can interpret complex narratives in a simple way that is easy for people to understand. “I believe images are powerful and they tell stories,” she reiterates. 

Phathu chose to pitch on our African Herbs theme due to her love of earthy tones. “I love herbs because of their multiple purposes such as their aromatic properties, for medicinal purposes and for fragrances.”

Displaying her South African heritage through her art, Phathu believes that the best thing about living in South Africa is the colourful cultures and heritage that make it an amazing place to be. “We speak different languages but we are connected, a true rainbow nation.”

Follow Phathu on Instagram @phathudesigns_illustrations