Tebogo Sidney Thapelo Thekisho, professionally known as ProVerb, is a prominent South African rapper, songwriter, MC, media personality, businessman, and brand ambassador. Renowned for his clean and conscious hip-hop style free from profanity, he has been a significant figure in South Africa’s music scene since the early 2000s. Born in Kimberley, Northern Cape, ProVerb gained national recognition through early music competitions and later became a widely respected media host and content producer.
Profile Summary
| Full Name | Tebogo Sidney Thapelo Thekisho |
| Date of Birth | April 12, 1981 |
| Place of Birth | Kimberley, Northern Cape, South Africa |
| Nationality | South African |
| State of Origin | Northern Cape |
| Partner | Previously married to Mpho Thekisho (divorced) |
| Children | 2 |
| Occupations | Rapper, songwriter, radio personality, television presenter, businessman |
| Labels | Outrageous Records (2005-06), Gallo Record Company (2006-2010), Proverb Music (prototype) (2008-09), ProVerb Music Productions (2009-present) |
| Net Worth | Estimated between $1 million and $3 million USD |
Early Life and Education
ProVerb was born on April 12, 1981, in Kimberley, Northern Cape, South Africa, growing up in a supportive family environment under the care of both parents, including his mother Dr. Nomonde Thekisho.
During his youth, he cultivated a passion for music and lyricism, participating actively in local music contests. His first national exposure came in 1999 when he appeared on the youth music competition show Jam Alley on SABC.
He attended St. Patrick’s Christian Brothers’ College in Kimberley before moving to Johannesburg for further studies.
At Allenby College, he earned a diploma in sound engineering, which provided him with a strong foundation in music production and broadcast technology. This technical background paved the way for his early career working as a technical producer for YFM’s DJ Fresh Breakfast Show.
Career
ProVerb’s music career began in earnest in 1999, with rapid growth after the release of his debut album The Book of ProVerb in 2005, which marked a milestone in South African hip-hop.
He has since released several albums, including Manuscript (2006), Write of Passage (2009), FourthWrite (2012), and The Read Tape (2015).
His collaborations span local and international artists, notably Ghanaian rapper M.anifest, enhancing his reputation on the African continent.
Beyond music, ProVerb gained widespread fame as a television host, co-hosting Idols South Africa from 2010 and becoming the main host from 2011 onward.
His radio career flourished as he took on hosting roles at Metro FM and Kaya FM, where he currently hosts The Pro-File and the Top 40 show respectively.
He also participated as a contestant on Survivor South Africa: Santa Carolina in 2010.
Among his accolades, he earned South African Hip Hop Awards for Hustler of the Year in 2015 and 2017, and Verse of the Year in 2019.
Personal Life
ProVerb keeps his personal life largely private. Publicly known family members include his sister, actress Lerato Mvelase, and his brother Mpho Thekisho. Details about his romantic relationships or children have not been widely disclosed.
Net Worth
ProVerb’s net worth is estimated to be between $1 million and $3 million USD. His earnings come from his recording career, various hosting and production roles in radio and television, business endeavors, and brand endorsements.
Discography
- The Book of ProVerb (2005)
- Manuscript (2006)
- Write of Passage (2009)
- FourthWrite (2012)
- The Read Tape (2015)
- Mixtape: Off Da Books (2009)
While he has not publicly released a new album since 2015, he remains active in the music industry through continual collaborations and hosting shows.
Awards and Nominations
- South African Hip Hop Awards: Hustler of the Year (2015, 2017)
- South African Hip Hop Awards: Verse of the Year (2019)
These honors reflect his contributions both as an artist and as a media influencer in South African hip-hop culture.
