Youth Month commemorates the achievements of young people across various fields. Among the new generation of talent is 24-year-old Leboto Moshoeshoe, a flourishing rapper, content creator, and Junior Copywriter at The PR AND BRAND NETWORK in Johannesburg, South Africa. With a BA Honors in Theatre and Performance, Leboto’s journey is a testament to the spirit of Youth Day and the potential of young creatives.

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Roots and Early Years

Leboto Moshoeshoe hails from Thabana Morena, Lesotho. From an early age, he showcased a free-spirited and experimental nature. During his high school years, while his peers focused on traditional creative paths such as acting and directing, Leboto embraced various opportunities with an open mind. This willingness to explore different avenues within the creative field has set him apart, enabling him to navigate his career with flexibility and curiosity.

In 2016, adopting the unique Instagram handle “Ntatao,” inspired by contemporary trends, he marked his place in the creative space. Over the next few years, he experimented with different forms of artistic expression, discovering a passion for stand-up comedy in 2018. This platform allowed him to merge his love for wordplay and writing with comedic performance, further broadening his creative horizon.

Educational Journey and Cultural Exposure

Leboto’s education began at Tiny Tots and Maseru Prep School in Lesotho, followed by boarding school at St. Patrick’s College in Kimberley, South Africa. These formative years, spanning from ages 10 to 17, were crucial for his development. Living in Kimberley and Lesotho exposed him to a rich diversity of cultures and environments, enabling him to adapt to various settings with ease. This diverse background influenced his personal and academic growth, fostering a deep appreciation for cultural exchange.

After completing his education at St. Patrick’s College, Leboto pursued higher education at Wits University, where he recently earned an Honors degree in Theatre and Performance. His academic journey has significantly shaped his creative pursuits, providing him with a strong foundation in the arts.

Embracing Sesotho Identity

Leboto’s journey to becoming a Sesotho artist has been transformative and deeply personal. Although he always possessed a creative spirit, it was only recently that he fully embraced his Sesotho identity in the music sphere. This realization has elevated his work, enhancing his self-expression and how his audience receives his music. He aims to be a leading voice in the 21st century, demonstrating innovation and pushing boundaries in the arts. The growing support from the community and government for artists like him makes this a beautiful time to be part of the creative evolution.

Rising Star in the Rap Scene

Leboto’s creative spark ignites from a deep well of honesty, drawing inspiration from his personal narrative and the world around him. His journey underscores the transformative power of authenticity, propelling his craft to new heights and forging a genuine connection with his audience. Through his music, he articulates truths that resonate profoundly, earning admiration for his raw, unfiltered storytelling.

Performing in Lesotho and South Africa, Leboto has captivated audiences with his smooth performances at venues like Cuban Linx, Panda, Elibo, Rock Your Team, The Cool Table, and The Scorpion Kings Mogodu Monday. In South Africa, he has curated his own shows through project and album listening sessions, often collaborating with other artists. His performances at the Untitled Basement stand out as some of his most notable.

Achievements and Impact

Leboto’s journey as a rapper reached a significant milestone with his second mixtape, Fighting Futility, charting in the top 200 albums on Apple Music. This achievement garnered attention from platforms such as SlikourOnLife, Daily Capsule, and Okay Africa, where his song “Busquets Calm” was listed among the top 10 best South African tracks for April 2024. Featured on DJ Switch’s podcast and mentioned on Revolt Network’s The Sobering Podcast, Leboto has cemented his presence in the music industry.

Fusion of Professional and Musical Passions

Leboto’s adeptness at blending his professional expertise with his musical passion is truly impressive. By harnessing tools and exercises from his professional life to fuel his creativity in the rap arena, he has uncovered a symbiotic relationship that elevates both his professional endeavors and musical pursuits. This fusion enriches his craft and fortifies his overall writing prowess, enabling him to thrive in multiple spheres concurrently.

A Vision for the Future

Leboto acknowledges the achievements of artists representing Lesotho on a global scale and aspires to join their ranks, contributing to showcasing Lesotho’s talent and culture worldwide. With admiration for those who have paved the way, he seeks to add his unique voice and perspective to the global stage, aiming to make an impactful contribution to the international recognition of Lesotho’s artistic prowess and cultural richness.

Leboto Moshoeshoe’s journey is a testament to the power of authenticity, creativity, and cultural pride. As he continues to rise, he embodies the spirit of Youth Day, demonstrating the boundless potential of young people to succeed and inspire in various fields.

To listen to Leboto’s music, click on the links below:

• YouTube
• Apple Music
• Spotify