Q & A with Tshepiso:  On her queer sexuality and career

Tshepiso Leyoola Leola is a transsexual who happened to be leading a double life. Through Yim’Lo, a reality show on Mzansi Magic, she recently informed her family that she is gay. Leeyola acted like a straight man when home but puts on long hair and make-up when away from her family. Campus Connect had the opportunity to have an exclusive interview with the 27-year-old.

Tell us about your experience during your childhood.

I had quite an interesting childhood. Growing up I was a very inquisitive child, a little too smart and a bit ahead of my age. Spent most of it with my elder brother but always enjoyed brushing dolls hair and making their clothes when he played with his toy cars.

At what age did you realize that you are queer and how did you realize it?

As early as five I knew I was different from the other boys but I obviously had no idea of what it was called because of my tender young age. Today I’d like to believe I am more informed about gender and sexuality and understand myself a whole lot better.

Did you face any kind of hardships like most queer people face? 

Yes, definitely. I believe every queer person goes through such challenges as a result of society believing being homosexual, transsexual or bisexual is unnatural and taboo. I’ve had my fair share of insults, attacks, and discrimination. However, all of this has made me a strong, confident person I am today. I am now fearless, stronger and unapologetic about who I am. Nothing gets to me now, I understand myself better, I keep a distance from the noise and I choose my battles wisely.

What it's like to live life as queer? 

Besides the hate, judgement, discrimination, and attraction to people of the same sex or both, it’s no different from everyone else, it’s normal.
What piece of advice can you give to young people who are struggling to come out? 

Don’t be in a rush to come out, take your time. Do it right and you’ll live freely and happily ever after.

What advice can you give to people who feel they are queer but they don’t know how to express themselves? 

Surround yourself with people who bring out the best in you, that help you discover and understand yourself more and make you see yourself in a more positive light. 

Now, let’s talk about your career as a make-up artist. Where and when did you learn to be a make-up artist? 

I am a self-taught makeup artist. I started doing makeup professionally after registering my company, Blaq Pout Faces in March 2017. I am currently working for The Morning Show on eTV and still running Blaq Pout Faces. 

Can you name a couple of people you have worked with? 

I’m currently working on a TV Show so I meet interesting people from different walks of life.  I have obviously worked with celebrities including Kelly Khumalo, Babes Wodumo, Gail Mabalane, Sonia Mbhele, Sjava and Cici to mention a few. 
What are the exciting things you like about your career? 

The transformation, arts, and creativity behind it all and of course, the different people that I meet every day and their different personalities. 

How do you entertain yourself? 

I am a very social person. I love dressing up, going out and engaging with smart people over drinks. 
How do you like to be referred to as? 

I am transsexual, so it only makes sense to be referred to as a "she". I am gorgeous after all. Lol. 
How can our readers book your services as a make-up artist? 

Through calls on 0749048469 or send me an email on blaqpout@gmail.com or a DM on social media on @iamleeyola/@blaqpoutfaces.