Eswatini TV’s Nelsiwe Simelane has shared her journey in animating His Majesty Mswati III’s logo marking 40 years on the throne.
Simelane, a creative multimedia professional at Eswatini TV, was tasked with animating the logo for the 40th anniversary of His Majesty’s reign.
According to Simelane, this was more than a design project — it was an opportunity to reflect the nation’s history and cultural pride through motion graphics.
“My initial vision was to translate history into motion. I wanted the animation to feel regal, timeless and deeply symbolic. It had to be more than just a visual sequence; it had to be an emotional experience that honoured the king’s 40 years of leadership,” Simelane explains.
The project was significant not only for Eswatini TV but for the entire nation as it celebrated a major milestone in the country’s modern history.
As Simelane elaborates, the animation had to capture the essence of the king’s leadership and the nation’s growth under his reign.
“My goal was to create movement that reflected strength, continuity and celebration,” she notes.
“The pacing had to be slow and deliberate, with smooth transitions that allowed the symbolism within the logo to resonate.”
She describes the animation process as one that required balance — taking care not to rush the visuals and ensuring the final product would feel regal and timeless.
As the project developed, Simelane worked on refining the design to enhance its depth and cinematic appeal.
“Every frame had to carry weight and intention. I wanted the final result to balance modern design with traditional dignity, creating something that could stand the test of time,” she adds.
Her awareness of the historical and cultural context drove her to ensure that the animation not only honoured the king but also resonated with the people.
“I carefully studied the symbolic elements within the logo to make sure the animation respected their meaning,” she said.
Balancing Grandeur and Subtlety
Simelane added that working at Eswatini TV for the past five years had helped her develop a deep sense of responsibility in handling national projects.
She said the technical challenges were equally demanding, especially in ensuring that the animation felt grand without overwhelming the viewer.
“The biggest challenge was balancing grandeur with subtlety. I focused on keyframing, lighting effects and morphing techniques, carefully layering the elements to produce a polished, broadcast-ready result. I treated the logo as a living entity,” she says, noting how gradual reveals and glowing effects built anticipation.
Beyond motion graphics, Simelane’s role at Eswatini TV encompasses a broad range of responsibilities.
She has contributed to video editing, advert creation and documentary-style storytelling. She also played a key role in the National Disaster Management Agency’s 10th anniversary documentary.
Additionally, Simelane serves as the lead graphics controller during live broadcasts of major events, including national addresses by the king.
“I see branding not as a limitation but as a framework for creativity,” Simelane says, describing her approach to balancing institutional guidelines with creative freedom.
By fully understanding the message and values of the project, she says she is able to explore innovative ways to express them while adhering to national broadcast standards.
Simelane’s journey into multimedia began with her studies at Limkokwing University of Creative Technology.
“My education provided me with the technical foundation I needed, but it was the hands-on experience at Eswatini TV that truly shaped my creative approach,” she says.
Working in a fast-paced broadcast environment has sharpened her ability to adapt quickly and think strategically.
“The daily pressure of creating live content pushed me to grow and refine my skills continuously,” she added.
At just 29 years old, Simelane has already achieved several key milestones in her career.
“I’ve spent five years refining broadcast design and motion graphics at Eswatini TV, and I’ve had the privilege of working on national projects that elevate the country’s visual identity. Each project has been an opportunity to learn and grow,” she said.
