Tshepo Ncokoane Before the Global Stages | Behind the Profile

What does it take to build a career on stage when the audience only sees the performance, not the years it took to get there? South African singer, actor and dancer Tshepo Ncokoane joins Behind the Profile by Zané to explore his journey from studying musical theatre to performing on international stages across Asia and the Middle East. He reflects on the realities of auditions, the discipline behind bringing characters to life, and what it takes to keep going in an industry where talent alone is not enough. From recognising when performance could become a livelihood to navigating the business of a creative career and planning for life beyond the next production, this conversation looks beyond the spotlight to the person building a life through performance. 00:00 From Finance to the Arts 08:25 The Reality of an Artist's Income 14:59 Learning to Manage Money 25:06 Why Career Education Matters 36:02 Faith and Rejection 42:50 Building Financial Security 55:08 Trusting Your Own Timeline About Behind the Profile by Zané Behind the Profile explores the personal, creative and wealth journeys of people working in and around South Africa’s creative industries. Through honest conversations about the realities behind creative careers, the show examines what it takes to build sustainable livelihoods and a future through creativity. Behind the Profile is a production brought to you by Zané in partnership with HustleNest About Zané Zané Institute of Arts & Entertainment works to strengthen the creative economy by helping creatives, businesses and institutions navigate the business of creativity. Through its programmes, events, education and advisory services, Zané works to ensure that creative value is recognised, opportunities are expanded, and the people behind the work are better positioned to benefit from the value they create. Learn more at https://zaneafrica.com. About HustleNest HustleNest helps creatives manage the business behind their work, with tools for professional invoicing, quotes, time tracking and project management. Through a subscription that includes contributions towards a Momentum-backed retirement fund, HustleNest also helps creatives plan for their financial future while building their businesses today. Learn more at https://HustleNest.co.za. Behind the Profile is produced by Tsakani Marholeni of Zané Institute of Arts & Entertainment, alongside Gerrit Hahn and Khumo Mdakane of HustleNest. Editing is by Sthembiso Mbizozo Lebuso, with executive production by Tsakani Marholeni, intro music by Innocent Mhlanga, and research by Zané Institute of Arts & Entertainment. Recorded at GIBS Studios.