By Tandzile Dlamini (intern)
MBABANE – While many young people wait on the sidelines for opportunities to come to them, Thabiso Shongwe, also known as Mabhengeta the Poet, is living proof that success begins when you create your own path.
A Limkokwing University graduate, with an Associate Degree in Business Management is steadily building his name through poetry, fashion, and entrepreneurship. In 2019, Thabiso founded his own clothing label, TLS Wear ,an acronym for Turn Life to Success. What started as a simple dream became a growing fashion movement, with T-shirts, sweaters, and most recently, introduced sneakers. The brand’s momentum took off when it won the Clothing Fashion Award hosted by Swazi Hoodie & Culture in 2020, where he was also honoured as the first ambassador for local brands. “TLS is more than just clothing, it is a lifestyle a message that no matter your background, you can turn your life to success, he said.”
Fashion is just one of his talents. In 2023, Thabiso launched an online podcast tackling critical life issues such as Gender Based Violence (GBV), mental health, and youth development. His passion for advocacy also led him to work alongside Deputy Prime Minister Hon. Thulisile Dladla on a national GBV awareness campaign and to perform poetry at high profile events, including those hosted by Sithobela Group.
Thabiso is currently working as an Operations Officer at PHILG investment (PTY) LTD. Despite being employed, he continues to grow personally and professionally, managing to juggle his job, his own brand, and a role as an online marketer for Swazi Divas. He is also a founder and CEO of Changing Lives Association which aim to invest in young people by expanding their access to education and opportunities that support transformation and strengthen community resilience.
Shongwe’s dream is to open TLS outlets across Eswatini and create local jobs, Thabiso believes entrepreneurship is key to solving youth unemployment. Though the challenges like competition from global brands and design theft, he relies on creativity, legal protection, and strong customer relationships to keep going.His message to the youth is “do not wait ,build your future with passion, hard work, and commitment. Thabiso is not just growing a business but building a legacy.
