Grant prioritises Interior Design student’s holistic development

Adopting a holistic approach to supporting the next generation of designers, Infinity Surfaces has awarded one of its 2026 Future Designers Fund grants to a Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) Interior Design student. This is the third consecutive year that a female TUT Interior Design student has been selected as a recipient of the grant, which speaks volumes about the calibre of students being prepared for this competitive industry right here at home.

Bokang Leshika, a third-year Interior Design student and one of this year’s recipients of a Future Designers Fund grant. Every year, Infinity Surfaces researches and strategises to implement a funded initiative that will best impact potential design students of that year. It aims to identify young, talented, potential designers, who have a passion for design thinking and creativity. Instead of simply throwing money at the problem, it offers holistic and tailer-made solution to each selected student, such as Bokang Leshika, a third-year student and one of this year’s recipients.

Leshika is deeply committed to building a career that contributes “meaningful work to the industry.” Known for her resilience and dedication, she believes in the power of design to uplift communities and tell impactful stories. With this support, Leshika is ready to focus fully on her practical projects and complete her journey to becoming the designer she aspires to be.

Apart from tertiary fees, the initiative could include mentorship, devices, life-coaching and emotional support, lunch money, curriculum enhancement and business acumen to name but a few. The Fund’s aim is to ensure that the selected students are nurtured and supported, yet also made accountable and motivated to succeed.

"Receiving this grant is a powerful reminder that hard work and dedication are seen and valued. It has lifted a huge financial burden and allowed me to fully focus on my growth. More than anything, it has pushed me to aim higher, work harder and truly believe in what I’m capable of achieving. The sky is the limit," says Leshika.

Asked why she chose Interior Design she says: “I’ve always been passionate about creativity and the power of spaces to shape how people feel, think and live. I didn’t just want a career where I created. I wanted one where I could solve problems, tell stories through design and make a real impact on people’s everyday experiences. Interior Design gives me that balance between creativity and purpose.”

She is currently completing her Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) at Proportion Studio in Roodepoort and describes the experience as exciting and insightful.

“I’m still finding my feet, but I’m learning a lot every day. Now, I’m also focusing on improving my technical skills, especially through training in Revit, which has been a big part of my development. Before this, I spent a month at TT Deco in Westpark, Pretoria East, where I gained hands-on experience and a better understanding of how the industry works. During that time, I developed skills in working with clients and the team, understanding design briefs, paying attention to detail and adapting to a professional environment. I also had the opportunity to visit a live site, which gave me valuable insight into how designs come together in real life and the importance of on-site communication and coordination. In addition, I gained experience working with costs and budgets, which helped me understand the practical and financial aspects of design. Being in this environment has been a turning point for me. It’s challenging me to think deeper, work smarter and grow not just as a designer, but as a young professional.”

Asked how she would encourage a prospective student to study in this field, she says: “If you’re creative, curious and willing to push yourself, this field is for you. Interior Design is not just about making things look good; it’s about thinking critically, understanding people and creating spaces that truly work. It can be demanding, but it’s also incredibly fulfilling. If you stay consistent, open to learning and confident in your ideas, there’s so much you can achieve in this industry.”

Leshika’s focus right now is to complete her qualification and continue building strong, real-world experience. “Looking ahead, I want to grow into a designer who is confident, innovative and intentional in every project I take on. I’m excited to explore different areas within design, push my creativity and refine my style. My long-term goal is to build my own design brand, one that creates spaces that are not only beautiful, but meaningful and impactful to every end user.”

In congratulating Leshika, Inge Newport, Head of the Department of Interior Design, says: “It is encouraging that this is the third consecutive year that one of our students has been awarded a Future Designers Fund grant, reflecting not only their industry potential, but also their strong design ability and work ethic. Their continued consistency in demonstrating both hard and soft workplace skills position them confidently as competitive future designers. As always, we value their dedication and the ongoing involvement of industry partners like Infinity Surfaces, whose support plays an important role in shaping a bright future for interior design in South Africa.”

Leshika’s proud lecturer, Rochelle Scheepers, says: “As a lecturer, it is incredibly encouraging to see industry partners such as Infinity Surfaces investing in the growth, development and education of young designers. While, as educators, we are committed to equipping students with the skills and knowledge needed to enter the profession, industry engagement and investment help bridge the gap between education and access and exposure to the design industry. On behalf of all design institutions, we thank Infinity Surfaces for their Future Designers Fund initiative.”

Get to know Leshika a little better by watching this video: https://youtu.be/6uKwhZ1qUA8 

To read more about the Fund, please click on: https://www.infinitysurfaces.co.za/future-designers-fund/