Namibian content creator Tangeni Neshuku (21), popularly known as ‘Tangos’ on TikTok, says he did not realise how popular his social media presence was until brands from abroad reached out to him for collaborations.
“The moment things truly clicked was when my content began crossing borders,” he says.
“During my live sessions, people sent gifts and messages of support.”
Tangos says that was when he realised he was not just collecting numbers on a screen, but building a community.
“And if treated with consistency and discipline, it could become a gateway to something far greater. I’ve studied my For You page carefully. I’ve watched what resonated, and paid attention to the trends.
“The real breakthrough came when I stopped simply following trends and began adding my own flavour,” he says.
During the Jakalas and Fada Christmas sound eras, he leaned into the popular tambula wave and, instead of copying it, he says he softened it and developed it into what many now recognise as his ‘gentle tambula’.
Before his popularity picked up, Tangos says he suffered a setback after losing the phone he used for content creation. He says he could not post for two months, which led to his engagement figures dropping.
“Watching that happen was difficult. But instead of giving up, I treated it as proof of my discipline. If I could build it once, I could build it again,’’ he says.
Tangos’ approach to content creation remains natural and spontaneous.
When an idea comes to him, he films it immediately, edits it and posts it. He says there is no rigid content calendar or drafts waiting to be uploaded, adding that the best content happens in the moment.
At the same time, he says he has a strong eye for quality. Tangos says his videos are polished, but never forced. In a space where many compete by being louder, he stands out by being composed.
The content creator says he is passionate about encouraging young people to stay true to themselves, because social media creates pressure to act a certain way.
Despite his recognition, Tangos says he still does not see himself as famous. When supporters send messages calling him an inspiration, it feels surreal, he says.
Although honoured, Tangos says he is simply living life and enjoying the process of entertaining people.
He says he has gained financial independence, and socially his visibility serves as a conversation starter.
However, he reminds himself that the platform is just one part of a bigger picture, which includes his academic ambitions, he says.
After completing a bachelor’s degree in mathematics and statistics, Tangos is now focused on pursuing a career in actuarial science.
He says he wants to prove that it is possible to thrive in the digital world while also excelling in a demanding technical field.
Creativity and intellect can coexist, he says.
“Looking back, I would thank my younger self for being confident and self-aware. I would encourage that younger version of myself to take even more risks, because fearlessness has built the foundation he stands on today.
“It is about steady growth, self-control and staying true to one’s character in a world that rewards noise.”
In an age of information overload, Sunrise is The Namibian’s morning briefing, delivered at 6h00 from Monday to Friday. It offers a curated rundown of the most important stories from the past 24 hours – occasionally with a light, witty touch. It’s an essential way to stay informed. Subscribe and join our newsletter community.
The Namibian uses AI tools to assist with improved quality, accuracy and efficiency, while maintaining editorial oversight and journalistic integrity.
Stay informed with The Namibian – your source for credible journalism. Get in-depth reporting and opinions for
only N$85 a month. Invest in journalism, invest in democracy –
Subscribe Now!
