So who's behind the pixels?

Hi, I'm

Nicolas Mahlunge

Digital product designer
Doodler
Photographiser
Storyteller (of sorts)
Plant collector (42+)

TL;DR

Waita hako is a small Shona phrase that guides how I move through work and life. It’s about gratitude, even when things feel messy or unresolved. For me, design is a way of making sense of that mess. Creating clear, considered experiences is how I say thank you to the people who use the things I help make, and to those who trust me with their ideas.

I’ve been designing digital products for over eight years, from interfaces that simplify complex tasks to platforms built for scale. I’ve worked with startups, large organisations, agencies, and NGOs, with a consistent focus on clarity, empathy, and meaning, even when it’s subtle.

Projects I’m proud of include shaping the COP28 digital experience across iOS, Android, and web, rethinking parts of Citibank's trading platform, and helping John Lewis Partnership bring greater consistency to their digital ecosystem. Although my family is probably most proud of Tina Turner’s website.

Along the way, I’ve been a finalist for Yuno Juno’s UI/UX Designer of the Year, a Shorty Award finalist, and a Creativepool nominee. My photography has also been featured in a handful of publications and continues to influence how I think about detail, emotion, and composition.

Waita hako for your time.

It’s pronounced “why tah ha koh”.

If you’d like to talk, feel free to email me.

Over 32 brands

Some past clients

John Lewis

Citibank

Verizon

Financial Times

Ineos

Conde Nast

The Times

MOB mag

SAINTHEIGHT

More

More

More

Recognition

MOB published

SAINTHEIGHT published

Hollyway published

the Dots featured
Yuno Juno finalist

CreativePool nominee

Shorty's awards finalist

waitahako

© 2025 Waita Hako ltd. All rights reserved unless otherwise stated.

waitahako

© 2025 Waita Hako ltd. All rights reserved unless otherwise stated.

waitahako

© 2025 Waita Hako ltd. All rights reserved unless otherwise stated.