Amanzimtoti creative fundi advances in global design contest

TOTI’S own graphic design fundi, Jason Geyer (21) won a gold medal in the graphic design category at the WorldSkills South Africa competition, which was held at Durban’s ICC from 14 to 16 February.

Jason will now go on to represent South Africa in the international competition held in Abu Dhabi this October.

The former Amanzimtoti High School pupil has exceeded not only his own expectations but has also done his parents, friends and alma mater proud. The creative genius loves everything art-related, including writing and reading, and is an avid photographer.

“For as long as I can remember, I’ve loved art – I’d draw my way through a ream of paper without a problem,” said Jason. “As a child, my friends would tell me about their new toys, I’d tell them about my latest books.”

Jason completed his degree in graphics design at the Design School of Southern Africa, based in La Lucia. It was never a problem deciding what career to pursue. “It was the grade nine career choice evening and I didn’t have my mindset on anything yet but I knew it would be something arty, where I could express myself,” said Jason. “It was then that my mom recommended graphic designing to me, as the ‘modern day artist’s choice’.”

Jason excelled in his school subjects, acing nearly every one. “I enjoyed most my subjects, which made it pleasurable to do well in them. I chose my subjects based on my love of all things arty,” he explained.

The WorldSkills competition is held every two years and is the biggest global vocational education and skills excellence event, truly reflecting a global industry.

The competitors are selected from skill competitions in WorldSkills member countries and regions. They are all under the age of 23 years, except for four skills that have an age limit of 25. Competitors demonstrate their technical abilities both individually and collectively by executing specific tasks for which they study or perform in their workplace.

“I feel equally anxious and excited, I’m going to be going up against the best of the best,” said Jason.

The designer was very inspired by his World Skills SA judge, a South African woman who had achieved a gold medal in the International World Skills competition.

“South Africa is still in its infancy when it comes to graphic design. This country is so rich in colour and creativity, there is no better time to experiment with your work and the way in which you express yourself,” said Jason.

In the future he aims to be successful, but more importantly happy. “I’m keeping open the path my life decides to take me on and I’m excited for the ride,” said Jason.

“I’m most grateful to my family for their support. Throughout my life I have chosen a path of art and expression, whereas the majority of my family members are highly qualified intellectuals. Not for a second have they discouraged me, but rather been behind every choice I make, always supportive,” explained the designer.

Jason acknowledges his amazing teachers at Amanzimtoti High, who played a huge role in fueling his fire and showing him his dreams are attainable. “By making it this far and going on to Abu Dhabi this October, I hope to show parents out there that their children don’t only need to be doctors, lawyers, scientists or accountants to be successful.

“Achievements in sports or intellectually-inclined school subjects aren’t the only achievements to be made,” said Jason.

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