Tšeliso Monaheng is a Lesotho-born, South Africa–based writer, photographer, and cultural documentarian whose work moves fluidly across music, politics, and everyday life in the Global South. Emerging from a background in computer science before shifting fully into storytelling, he built a reputation for sharp, empathetic reportage that foregrounds the voices and textures of communities often overlooked by mainstream media. His writing blends on‑the‑ground observation with a deep sense of social history, giving his pieces a grounded, human pulse.

Across more than a decade of work, Monaheng has contributed to a wide range of publications, including The Guardian, Al Jazeera, OkayAfrica, New Frame, and Mail & Guardian. His essays and interviews often explore the intersections of art, identity, and resistance, with a particular focus on African music scenes—from hip-hop and jazz to experimental electronics. As a photographer, he brings the same sensibility to his images: intimate, atmospheric portraits that capture both the individual and the environment that shapes them.

Beyond journalism, Monaheng is known for his collaborative spirit and his commitment to documenting cultural movements as they unfold. Whether profiling emerging artists, tracing the evolution of township creativity, or chronicling political shifts across Southern Africa, he approaches each story with curiosity and care. His work stands as an evolving archive of contemporary African life, marked by nuance, integrity, and a deep respect for the people whose stories he tells.