Noko Mashilo
Lehlohonolo Lucky “Laki Botaki” Thoboki has turned art, technology and music into a way of life.
The 43-year-old Tembisa resident works in graphic design by day and DJs Soul and R&B by night.
“I make things look good and sound good,” he said.
His design journey began while working as a packer at BlackStar supermarket. His artistic ability caught the attention of his boss, Bro Buti Ramahuma, who had a passion for fine art.
Ramahuma encouraged staff to create advertisements outside the shop. While others wrote simple promotions such as “TOMATO R5”, Thoboki took a different approach.
“I drew the Tomato logo,” he recalled.
Ramahuma had taught himself CorelDRAW and went on to teach Thoboki the basics of graphic design, setting him on a path from packing groceries to working professionally in the creative industry.
Today, Thoboki is back at Tembisa Print, where he says part of his journey began.
“Tembisa Print is my roots. When it started decades ago, I was there. Now I am back again. Full 360, like vinyl returning to the needle.”
His work at Tembisa Print includes design, campaigns, customer service and ensuring projects are ready for printing.
Working with clients has also shaped his approach to design.
“First do what the client wants. Then show them what they actually need with a bit of your flavour.”
His design philosophy is equally straightforward.
“Minimalism and attention to detail. Don’t shout, whisper with style.”
His creativity extends beyond the computer. Thoboki grew up listening to Soul music, influenced by an uncle whose music collection formed part of his childhood.
“I grew up in a tavern-like household. My uncle played soul so loud the walls danced. Some kids had lullabies, I had Luther Vandross.”
Sing-alongs, Motown and karaoke-style performances eventually led him to DJing.
For Thoboki, the skills required in design are not far removed from those needed behind the decks.
“Every business or gig has a unique audience. Your first draft or song tells you who you’re dealing with. Read the room, or lose the room.”
He applies the same thinking to his DJ brand, often designing his own promotional material when it does not meet his standards.
“Can’t play a soulful set with a soulless poster.”
Among his career highlights was working as part of the Sekhukhune District communication team and travelling to Botswana to teach government communication. In 2011, his team finished second nationally at the Government Communication Awards.
His focus now is on helping Tembisa Print grow.
“I’ve adopted Tembisa Print as my own, hoping to help it grow to a higher level.”
For Thoboki, staying creative comes down to enjoying the work.
“My work is also my hobby. The minute I sit on that chair, it is love and happiness all over again.”
His advice to young creatives is to find work that reflects their calling.
“When you find your calling, you will never work a day in your life.”
He follows it with a dose of reality.
“Except you will work weekends, holidays, ‘just change this small thing’ at 11 PM. But you’ll love it.” he added.