We at IIBA South Africa are thrilled to announce the winner of our T-shirt design competition, which was launched to inspire creativity and foster a sense of belonging within our community. The response was overwhelming, with so many talented members submitting their designs. Each entry reflected the passion and ingenuity that defines our chapter. Seeing such enthusiasm and engagement from our community filled our hearts with pride and joy.
After a spirited voting process, where you—our community—had the final say, we are excited to reveal the winning design created by Retha Fraser! Her design will become the official T-shirt for the IIBA South Africa Chapter 2025.
To get to know the person behind this extraordinary design, we interviewed Retha about her inspiration and her journey:
1. How does it feel to have your design chosen as the official T-shirt for the IIBA South Africa Chapter 2025?
It feels incredibly rewarding and exciting to have my design chosen as the official T-shirt for the IIBA South Africa Chapter 2025. It’s an honor to contribute creatively to an organization that has such a meaningful impact on the business analysis community. This recognition inspires me to keep exploring my creative side and find more ways to merge my interests with my professional journey.
2. Is there a specific message or story you wanted your design to convey?
Those who know me understand how deeply passionate I am about business analysis. The phrase 'It’s in Our DNA' in my design goes beyond a slogan—it embodies the essence of being a business analyst. Our skills—problem-solving, strategic thinking, innovation, and collaboration—are more than tools; they’re part of who we are. We don’t just facilitate change; we design solutions and shape the future.
The DNA helix in my design reflects our profession’s core, with flowcharts for clarity, graphs for insights, and SWOT analysis for strategy, all woven in the vibrant colors of the South African flag. The hexagonal patterns and BA₂ motif symbolize our interconnectedness and adaptability.
This design is a tribute to our resilience and transformation, showing how business analysts create meaningful impact. It’s not just a career—it’s who we are. Business analysis is truly in our DNA.
3. Do you have a background in design, or is it a personal passion?
Design is a personal passion of mine. I believe that engaging in creative activities stimulates the brain and helps us approach challenges with fresh perspectives. In fact, many of my most innovative, 'out-of-the-box' solutions to problems have come to me while I was crafting or creating something. It’s amazing how creativity in one area can spark ideas in another.
4. How do you see your design contributing to the identity of the IIBA South Africa Chapter?
My design contributes to the identity of the IIBA South Africa Chapter by visually embodying the values and essence of the business analysis profession within a uniquely South African context. The DNA helix symbolizes the intrinsic qualities that define business analysts—problem-solving, innovation, and collaboration—while the vibrant colors of the South African flag celebrate our chapter’s diversity and creativity. This T-shirt is more than just apparel; it’s a statement of who we are as a chapter—resilient, innovative, and proudly South African.
5. What does being a part of the IIBA community mean to you?
Being part of the IIBA community means belonging to a network of professionals who share a passion for driving change and delivering value through business analysis. It’s a space where knowledge is shared, ideas are cultivated, and collaboration thrives. The community inspires me to grow, not just in technical skills but also in leadership and innovation.
It’s also about connection—feeling supported by like-minded individuals who understand the challenges and rewards of our work. For me, the IIBA community is more than professional development; it’s a source of inspiration, camaraderie, and a shared commitment to shaping the future. Being part of this collective is both empowering and deeply rewarding.
6. What’s your favorite T-shirt in your wardrobe (other than this one, of course!)?
My favorite T-shirt has to be my BAFF T-shirt from the IIBA South African Summit this year! I’m actually wearing it today. It’s more than just a shirt—it’s a symbol of the friendships and connections we build as part of this incredible community. 'Business Analysis Friends Forever' perfectly captures the camaraderie and support we share, reminding me why being part of the IIBA is so special.
Congratulations once again to Retha Fraser for her inspiring design and heartfelt contributions to our chapter. This T-shirt represents the passion, creativity, and resilience of the IIBA South Africa community. We can’t wait to see you all wearing it proudly as we step into another impactful year together. Thank you to everyone who participated in the competition—your enthusiasm and talent made this initiative a resounding success!
