Natalie Amy Margaret Houston hails from Durban, South Africa. She began her academic journey at Natal Technikon, where she earned a Diploma in Marketing and Sales Management in 1989. Following her graduation, she was awarded an 18-month scholarship by the German Government, which allowed her to gain invaluable practical experience while working with Volkswagen and Audi in their Marketing and Strategic Planning departments.
After this enriching experience in Germany, Natalie returned to pursue her passion for design. She studied Graphic Design at the University of Applied Sciences in Düsseldorf, completing her Bachelor's Degree in 2004. Natalie then lectured for nine years at the Durban University of Technology in the Faculty of Arts, within the Department of Graphic Design. In 2013, she transitioned to the University of Dammam in Saudi Arabia, where she continued her role as a Graphic Design lecturer.
Currently, Natalie holds a Master’s Degree in Graphic Design and is a registered PhD student in the Department of Social Sciences at the University of KwaZulu-Natal. Known for her goal-oriented approach, she is both organized and driven in her endeavors.
My teaching philosophy is fundamentally student-centered, driven by a deep commitment to inspiring learners to reach their highest potential. I liken my teaching style to constructing a house, emphasizing the importance of building a solid foundation. By intertwining technical knowledge with a comprehensive understanding of the design process, I equip my students to become critical thinkers and adept problem solvers.
My goals are to:
