Tshepang ‘DJ Neno’ Makapan is turning personal pain into powerful purpose, using music as a tool to inspire hope among young people living with disabilities in Mabopane.

Born and raised in Mabopane, the 27-year-old’s early life was marked by loss and hardship.

After losing both his parents at a young age, he and his brother were raised by their aunt. Despite these challenges, his journey would later become one of resilience and determination.

Makapan was born with scoliosis, a condition that affected not only his physical health but also his self-esteem growing up.

As a child, he often felt isolated and struggled to accept himself.

“I had low self-esteem and was scared to play with other kids because of how I looked. Some kids at school used to laugh at me, and that made it even harder.”

Living with scoliosis came with physical challenges and he experienced pain when walking long distances or standing for extended periods. Even sleeping was difficult.

“It was killing me emotionally because I couldn’t do things I wished I could do, like playing soccer with other kids,” he says.

As he grew older, Makapan began to see his condition differently and instead of viewing it as a limitation, he embraced it as part of his purpose.

“I finally understood why God made me this way, to teach people and to learn more about my disability,” he says.

His journey into music began in 2022, when he started gaining exposure through radio platforms such as Radio 2000, Metro FM, Kaya FM and Thobela FM, where his mixes were played.

Specialising in deep house, soulful house and old-school house, DJ Neno’s sound is rooted in uplifting and connecting with people.

“I play music that relates to people and gives them joy,” he says.

Makapan draws inspiration from internationally recognised DJ Black Coffee and fellow disabled DJ Kabila, both of whom have overcome physical challenges to achieve success.

“Seeing them gave me hope to start my own journey. I want to continue their mission of inspiring young people, especially those living with disabilities,” he says.

One of his proudest moments came when he performed at the Afrika Tikkun 500 Summit, as well as the MP Music DAC Festival in Mpumalanga in 2025.

These milestones affirmed his belief in his purpose. “I was proud to put the disability community on the map,” he says.

Despite his growing success, Makapan said the journey has not been easy.

One of the biggest challenges he faces is convincing promoters and club managers to give disabled DJs a platform.

“I have to prove myself all the time. But I believe more disabled artists should be given opportunities to showcase their talent.”

Makapan hopes to change perceptions around disability through his story.

“Living with a disability is not a curse, it’s a blessing. I want people to be comfortable with who they are, to go out, network and enjoy life without fear.”

His message to young people is to never give up. “Anything is possible with God. The sky is the limit,” he says.

“Don’t let your disability stop you from reaching your dreams.”

He plans to expand his impact beyond music and is currently working with the Afrika Tikkun Foundation, where he hopes to visit schools and community centres to motivate young people.

Makapan also aims to collaborate with big brands and artists, including Chymamusique and Reagan Ruler.

With plans to release his first EP in July and secure more performance opportunities in 2026, DJ Neno is determined to keep rising, not just for himself, but for every young person who needs hope.

“I want to show people that being disabled does not mean being unable. You can still achieve your dreams.”

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