Welcome to
Spencesa.co.za
About Me
A few things about me
What about me?
I'm Lario Spence – a Technical Creative, Full-Stack Developer & Motion Designer based in Cape Town, South Africa. My journey from the rugby field to the digital arena has taught me discipline, resilience, and the art of problem-solving. I blend the precision of code with the fluidity of motion design to craft experiences that captivate and drive business outcomes.
Why do I love software development so much?
For me, every line of code is an opportunity to solve a problem and tell a story. Whether I’m creating dynamic web solutions or breathing life into digital animations, I thrive on transforming complex challenges into elegant, user-centered designs. It’s the thrill of innovation that keeps me coding—and always pushing the envelope.
Why I Love Animation Projects
Animation projects are my playground for merging creativity with technology. There’s a unique magic in transforming a blank screen into a dynamic, moving story that connects with people on an emotional level. For me, animation isn’t just about flashy visuals—it’s about solving intricate puzzles frame by frame, where every motion and transition tells a deeper narrative. Whether I'm crafting interactive web experiences or producing high-energy motion graphics, I relish the challenge of pushing design boundaries and delivering experiences that captivate and inspire. Animation fuels my passion for innovation, turning complex ideas into engaging, immersive digital stories.
Then, what makes me a good software developer?
My background as a semi-pro athlete instilled a relentless drive and a never-give-up attitude that I channel into every project. With hands-on experience building platforms for startups and SMEs, I’ve honed my skills in modern web technologies and creative storytelling. This unique mix enables me to seamlessly bridge the gap between design and functionality.
My skills
My expertise spans modern full-stack development and innovative motion design, empowering me to transform complex ideas into immersive digital experiences.
Front-End Development
JavaScript
TypeScript
React
Next.js
TailwindCSS
Angular
HTML
CSS/SASS
Wordpress
Elementor
Back-End Development
Node.js
Express.js
Python
Firebase
REST APIs
Databases Development
PostgreSQL
MongoDB
Vercel
CI/CD
Motion & Visual Storytelling
Blender
Spline
AfterEffects
Animate
Illustrator
PremierePro
PhotoShop
Dimension
Development Tools & Workflow
Git
JetBrains
Agile/Scrum
Figma
NPM
CreativeCloud
AdobeStock
Front-End Development
I build engaging, responsive interfaces using JavaScript, TypeScript, React, Next.js, Angular, TailwindCSS, CSS/SASS, and WordPress with Elementor. My goal is to deliver clean, high-performance user experiences.
I_Xperience
Software Engineering
Issue Date: 7 February, 2025 Click to verify
What I learnt
Code Editor (Visual Studio Code)
Leverage Visual Studio Code for efficient code writing, debugging, and project management.
Git & GitHub
Master the basics of Git for version control and GitHub for seamless collaboration and code management.
HTML, CSS & JavaScript
Build interactive front-end experiences by learning the fundamentals of web development with HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.
CSS Framework (Bootstrap)
Implement responsive design and consistent styling using Bootstrap to streamline front-end development.
JavaScript Framework (ReactJS)
Develop dynamic single-page applications with ReactJS for efficient, component-based front-end solutions.
MongoDB
Create scalable backend architectures by storing and querying data with MongoDB.
Debugging with Chrome DevTools
Identify and resolve issues in real-time using Google Chrome’s Developer Tools for debugging and performance analysis.
APIs & Internet Fundamentals
Understand the basics of networking, the internet, and APIs to grasp how data flows and is accessed online.
Backend as a Service
Authenticate users, store data, and manage file uploads in a web app using MongoDB and Express for a streamlined backend approach.
Website Deployment
Learn to host and deploy web applications to the internet, ensuring accessibility and scalability.
Collaboration & Teamwork
Work effectively in diverse teams by practicing clear communication, version control, and group problem-solving.
Hands-On Project Building
Apply classroom knowledge to real-world scenarios by designing, developing, and deploying a complete project.
Experience
Embark on a journey through my dynamic career, where creativity, technology, and athletic discipline converge:
Founder Vivid Graphics
Vivid Graphics
- I spearhead the creation of over 20 integrated websites and animations that drive a 60% client retention rate.
- From conceptual design to post-launch support, I deliver innovative digital solutions that leave a lasting impact.
Adobe Creative CloudReactJavascriptSCSSDatabasesWordpressWeb DevelopmentLead Web Developer & Athlete
Phoenix Sports Group
- Merging my passion for technology with my athletic background, I built the company’s first responsive MERN-stack platform—cutting investor onboarding time by 40%.
- My design of 15+ social media video campaigns has not only boosted engagement but also automated sponsor communications.
MongoDBExpress.jsReactJavaScriptNode.jsNext.jsTailwind CSSAfterEffectsPremiereProWeb Developer & Video Producer
Attain Sports Management
- Provided one-on-one coding tutoring sessions, helping students grasp complex programming concepts, improve their coding skills, and successfully complete their projects, resulting in consistently positive feedback and improved student outcomes.
- Teach HTML, CSS, JavaScript, React, Next.js, Tailwind CSS, TypeScript, and PostgreSQL. Provide clear, comprehensive instruction to help students master both foundational and advanced web technologies.
WordpressElementorPremiere ProAfter EffectsIllustratorPhotoShopManager & Lead Developer
IX Internship
- I led a team in architecting secure portals for athletes and coaches using Node.js and Firebase, supporting over 200 user accounts.
- Mentoring three interns under Agile workflows, we delivered a production-ready MVP within just six weeks.
ReactTypeScriptNext.jsMaterial UITailwind CSSSCSSGoogle CloudFirebaseMongoDBBootstrapJunior Software Engineer
RealtyPA
- I managed user tickets, meticulously tracked bug logs, and implemented timely fixes to enhance the platform’s performance.
- created engaging onboarding videos that helped new users navigate the system with ease, significantly improving user understanding and satisfaction.
AngularPostgresSQLJavaScriptOpenAi ApiTailwind CSSNode.jsAfter EffectsPremiere ProFigma
My Work
Passionate software developer with a focus on crafting efficient and innovative solutions to real-world problems.
Phoenix Sports Group
At Phoenix Sports Group, I merged my passion for technology and athletics to create a responsive MERN-stack platform that cut investor onboarding time by 40%. I also designed and produced over 15 dynamic social media video campaigns, boosting brand engagement and driving digital transformation.
Private Repo
Live Site
Attain Sports Management
During my time at Attain Sports Management, I revamped their website with a mobile-first design approach, resulting in a 55% increase in mobile traffic. I further enhanced their digital presence by producing impactful promotional videos that lifted client inquiries by 60%.
Private Repo
Live Site