Article by Frieda Mukufa
In a world where creatives are often told to “pick one thing and stick to it,” Theo Johannes is choosing all of it. Known by three different names — Namceleb King, Motionboy, and Theo Shot It, this young Windhoek-based creator is not just playing in different lanes; he’s building the entire highway.
You might have seen his funny videos on TikTok, caught his latest track “Formula” on your favourite streaming platform, or even noticed his photography credits under major brands. But who is the person behind these names, and how does he keep all these creative identities going strong?
We sat down with Theo to talk about art, hustle, storytelling and the bold balancing act that is his creative journey.
Three Names, One Story
When asked how he balances being Namceleb King, Motionboy and Theo Shot It, he laughs, “Well, I’m a multidisciplinary digital creator, so to simplify it, I created three role players.”
And it makes sense. Each name reflects a different energy. Namceleb King is the artist and musician, as well as the performer. Motionboy is the funny, loud, unapologetic guy on TikTok who keeps the streets talking. And Theo Shot It is the visual storyteller, capturing moments through photos and videos that say more than words ever could.
For many creatives, one brand is already hard to manage. But for Theo, the three parts work together. “Motionboy is the one marketing Namceleb King and Theo Shot It,” he explains. “It’s all motion — all movement.”
“I honestly started with TikTok just to market myself,” Theo admits. But what began as a test quickly turned into something massive. Motionboy is now sitting on over 2.5 million views in just under a year. His content is a mix of humour, vibes and relatable moments. He has also helped build an audience that not only watches but feels his art.
“The fans are what keep me going. When someone says, ‘You made my day’ or ‘Your music helps me,’ that’s all the motivation I need.”
As Namceleb King, Theo isn’t boxed in by genres. His music blends Afro-pop, Kwaito and Dancehall, creating a sound that feels familiar but fresh. “I shaped that sound myself because I didn’t want to be limited creatively. It’s still rooted in culture, though because that part is important.”
His current track “Formula” is a smooth, grown-up groove that’s picking up traction. “It’s got PG-18 energy,” he says with a grin. “It’s for couples. It’s a whole vibe.”
But beyond the beats, Namceleb King is about more than just fun. “I want my music to inspire Namibian youth, heal those in pain and give hope. To show that you can come from anywhere and still make something of yourself.”
When he’s not in front of the mic or the camera, Theo is behind it and we mean this literally. As a visual storyteller, he’s built a strong portfolio under the name Theo Shot It. “Photography brings out a different emotion in me,” he says. “Especially when I’m working on something sad or serious, it usually tends to bring out real feelings that sometimes make their way into my music.”
And he’s not just snapping for fun. His proudest moments include shooting for Mothers n Business, where he met Connie Ferguson, and doing visual work for SA’s Toss and Robot Boii. Locally, he’s done projects for big names like Pupkewitz and Standard Bank.
“I like to be honest with my art, whether it’s visuals or music. That’s why I take my time. I don’t want to put out just anything.”
So what’s the secret? How does one guy manage to grow three brands at once and still keep his feet on the ground?
“Be true to yourself,” he says. “And keep pushing. There’s always light at the end of the tunnel. However, in the meantime, don’t be shy to borrow some light to walk through it.”
His advice to young Namibians wanting to grow online? “Don’t try to copy someone else. Find your own lane and work hard in it.”
What You See Isn’t Always the Full Story
With all the content, the music and the images, it’s easy to think Theo’s journey has been smooth. But he’s quick to remind us that behind the scenes, the creative industry in Namibia still has a long way to go.
“We need more unity, more working together. We also need government and corporates to take creatives seriously. There’s so much talent here, but not enough support or infrastructure to really build on it.”
He dreams of a future where Namibian creatives are empowered not just to perform, but to build businesses, own platforms and shape more narratives.
In five years, Theo wants one title: Multidisciplinary Digital Creator. It’s a label that speaks to the full range of his work and honours the fact that he’s not limited to just one kind of art.
Collaboration-wise, his dream is to work with Ghanaian star Black Sherif. “I just love his style. I think if we came together, we’d create a timeless masterpiece.” But for now, he’s focused on expanding the three characters he’s already built. “I don’t see myself stopping anytime soon. I’m just getting started.”
The Bigger Picture
At the end of the day, whether he’s Namceleb King on a track, Motionboy on your timeline, or Theo behind the camera, one thing stays the same; the passion.
It’s in the music, the captions and the visuals. It’s in every laugh, every lyric and every lens click. And maybe that’s the whole point. In a world that often tells you to choose one, Theo is proving that sometimes, the best thing you can do is choose yourself. In all your forms.
Because in motion, there’s growth. And in growth, there’s art.
