Thembisa teen entrepreneur builds dreams with beauty brand and community spirit

My name is Choene Tshiamo Nong, though many know me professionally as Montero Nong.

I’m a young South African entrepreneur, philanthropist, aspiring model, and beauty influencer.

I was born in Polokwane, Limpopo, on December 1, 2008, and Thembisa has been my home for the past three years.

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In 2025, at just 16 years old, I launched my own beauty brand, Nong Cosmetics, inspired by icons like Kylie Jenner, Hailey Bieber, Patrick Ta, and James Charles.

I dream of one day collaborating with global brands such as L’Oréal Paris, Tiffany & Co, Pandora, Swarovski, and YSL. My pronouns are he/him, and I am proudly pansexual, a part of my identity that has shaped my confidence and my voice.

One of my favourite memories of living in Thembisa is the way the community always comes together, whether it’s for celebrations, events, or even during difficult times.

The unity here is real. People show up for one another, support one another, and create a sense of belonging that stays with you.
That spirit of togetherness is something I carry with me every day.

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What I love most about Thembisa is the talent and creativity of its youth.

This is a township full of dreamers, dancers, entrepreneurs, creators, hustlers, and innovators, all working hard to build their futures.

The energy is inspiring. You can feel ambition in the air, and it motivates me to push harder, dream bigger, and stay true to my own path.

When I want to relax or refuel, my go-to spot is Food Pound. It’s vibrant, full of culture, and always buzzing with life.

Whether you’re meeting friends, grabbing a bite, or soaking in the atmosphere, it’s one of those places that reminds you just how colourful Thembisa really is.

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A moment that truly changed my life wasn’t one single event, but rather what Thembisa itself taught me.

Living here has strengthened my resilience and ambition. It showed me that no dream is too big, not if you’re willing to believe in yourself and put in the work. That lesson has been the fuel behind my journey as a young entrepreneur and creator.

Like many communities, Thembisa faces the challenge of youth unemployment.

So many young people are gifted, creative, and ready to work, but opportunities are limited.

I believe we need more community programmes focused on skills development, mentorship, and entrepreneurship, real support systems that can help young people discover their strengths and build sustainable futures.

To me, Thembisa is a place of potential, power, and possibility. It’s where I’m building my dreams, where my creativity is celebrated, and where I’ve found a community that pushes me to grow.

I’m proud to call this township my home, and even prouder to be part of the next generation shaping its future.