When local tradition meets contemporary craftsmanship, every piece becomes a wearable story. Nestled inside Constitution Hill’s Creative Uprising Hub at the historic Transwerke Building, Tribal Monkey is a South African accessories brand celebrating African creativity through modern, handcrafted beadwork.

Founded and directed by local creative Buhle Ncoco, Tribal Monkey blends rich heritage with modern design aesthetics. Every item—from statement beaded bags, chokers, and earrings to keyrings, pouches, and home decor—is meticulously handmade by local artisans with individuality, precision, and deep respect for African artistry.

Tribal Monkey is more than an artisan brand—it is a vibrant centre for skill-sharing and creative empowerment. Hosted inside the Creative Uprising Hub, Tribal Monkey collaborates with fellow makers like Dear Magic (an atelier that gave rise to the Mahala Thuto learning and facilitation centre) to lead hands-on beading workshops.

These joint sessions explore the many facets of beadwork, offering a multifaceted learning environment rooted in participatory practice and cultural intimacy. By emphasizing innate artistic ability, the workshops provide participants with a tangible sense of agency, creative expression, and connection.

Meet Tribal Monkey at Contra.Joburg 2026

This 29 and 30 August 2026, Johannesburg’s inner-city creative scene comes alive with Contra.Joburg—and ConHill’s Transwerke Building is proud to be part of the showcase!

As you explore the hop-on, hop-off open studios experience, make sure to step into the Creative Uprising Hub to meet Buhle Ncoco in person, discover her latest collection, shop and take home a unique piece of wearable art or decor.

Connect & Shop Local

• Instagram:@tribalmonkeyafrica
• TikTok:@tribalmonkeyafrica
• Facebook:@tribalmonkeyza
• WhatsApp Orders: +27 63 371 6125

You canget your tickets for Contra.Joburg here: 

https://www.quicket.co.za/events/380279-contrajoburg-2026/#/