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The Modern Us is part of the Constitution Hill Creative Uprising Hub that provides space in the converted Transwerke building for creatives to build and operate their businesses. As part of the economic growth of the province, there is a major focus on enabling youth and creative makers in Gauteng. The project is supported by the Gauteng Department of Economic Development through its agency - The Gauteng Growth and Development Agency of which Constitution Hill is a subsidiary.
Since the inception of the Creative Uprising Hub, Constitution Hill has worked with multiple program partners to provide development programs; training and market access opportunities for Gauteng’s growing creative sector.
“For me being part of the Conhill Creative Hub is very purposeful and meaningful. The site was previously a place that oppressed people of colour, but today I am here with other youth as the modern generation, using this place to liberate ourselves; go for our dreams and make a living for ourselves. It helps creatives to ensure that we establish our footprint economically. Conhill being a World Heritage Site, opening its doors for youth like me is so meaningful and beneficial to the youth of South Africa.”
We chatted to the Founder & Creative Director of The Modern Us, Lebohang Tsinyane, and this is what he had to say about his journey as a maker in the creative economy in Gauteng.
Lebohang Tsinyane
In a world where creativity is currency and authenticity is power, Lebohang Tsinyane stands tall as a product designer, cultural thinker, and creative entrepreneur determined to help this generation win. As the founder of The Modern Us, a lifestyle and gifting brand rooted in style, storytelling, and cultural relevance, Lebohang has been reshaping how we experience creativity — one product, one message, one moment at a time
Lebohang’s journey didn’t begin with leather or luxury gifting. It began with sound. In 2015, while studying Public Relations at Rosebank College in Braamfontein, he dreamed of a career in music. But when his mother encouraged him to consider a more grounded future, he used his PR studies to creatively bridge the gap between passion and purpose.
He immersed himself in Johannesburg’s vibrant creative and musical scenes, eventually launching a branding company that helped connect brands to culture and vice versa. That instinct for cultural storytelling and brand identity would soon lay the foundation for something bigger.
Formally registered in 2020 — just before the pandemic shook the world, The Modern Us was born. The brand became an embodiment of Lebohang’s belief in personal style, local creativity, and self-expression. From blogging and vlogging to curating physical experiences like The Modern Us Lifestyle Market, Lebohang consistently found ways to amplify emerging voices and spotlight authentic South African creativity. But his real game-changer?Custom made products. What began as a hustle quickly evolved into a standout business model: high-quality, handcrafted, customizable leather goods that connect deeply with people. From branded aprons to bespoke book covers, each item tells a story — and that’s exactly the point.
With clients like McDonald’s, Coca-Cola, and Standard Bank, The Modern Us is more than just an accessory or fashion brand, it’s a trusted creative partner for some of the continent’s biggest names. Lebohang’s offerings blend premium materials with personal touches, making every item feel intentional and meaningful. But none of this came easy.“One of my toughest lessons in business was trying to do too many things at once,” says Lebohang. “The Modern Us Lifestyle Market was beautiful but somehow I had to put it on pause as it was costing me a lot of money and very stressful at times to run it, I remember after Mall of the South, I literally wanted nothing to do with events and decided to finally focus on the fashion site of business”
At the heart of everything Lebohang does is his unwavering belief in this generation. He’s passionate about giving emerging artists and creatives the exposure they need especially those from underserved communities. Where once he saw a lack of platforms, today he sees a wave of opportunity. Just show up, there is never a perfect moment,” he advises. “Be present in every moment and the opportunities will show themselves.”
For Lebohang Tsinyane, the journey is far from over. Whether through fashion, gifting, events, or storytelling, he continues to build The Modern Us into a movement a brand that’s not just about products, but about people, purpose, and pride.
