Why I’ve spent years following LaConco’s remarkable journey from controversy to triumph
You know that feeling when someone captures your attention completely? That’s exactly what happened when I first encountered Nonkanyiso “LaConco” Conco on my screen.
After covering South African entertainment for over 6 years, I can confidently say she’s one of the most fascinating personalities I’ve ever encountered.
Let me share what I’ve learned about this incredible woman who refuses to be defined by anyone else’s expectations.
LaConco Biography
| Category | Details |
| Full Name | Nonkanyiso Conco |
| Known As | LaConco |
| Date of Birth | October 16, 1991 |
| Age (as of 2025) | 33 years old |
| Birthplace | Johannesburg, South Africa |
| Profession | TV Presenter, Entrepreneur, Podcaster |
| Famous For | Relationship with Jacob Zuma, SAFTA-winning presenter |
| Children | 1 son (Sakhaumuzi Zuma) |
| Businesses | LaConco Naturals, LaConco Apparel |
Who Is LaConco Really? The Person Behind the Headlines
I remember when LaConco first appeared on our radar. The media painted her with broad strokes – “Zuma’s fiancée,” they’d say. But here’s what struck me: this woman had her own story long before that chapter began.
Growing up in a shack near Palm Ridge, she sold sweets at school to make ends meet. Can you imagine? While other kids played during breaks, young Nonkanyiso was already showing that entrepreneurial spirit that would later make her millions.
LaConco’s Age: Why Everyone’s Talking About Her Birthday
When LaConco celebrated her 33rd birthday in October 2024, social media went wild. People couldn’t believe she was “only” 33. I’ve seen this reaction countless times – when someone carries themselves with such grace and accomplishment, age becomes irrelevant.
What fascinates me about her birthday celebrations isn’t the age revelation. It’s how she uses these moments to reflect on her journey. “I’m grateful for every lesson,” she posted, wearing this stunning outfit that screamed confidence.
The woman I’ve watched evolve over the years has learned to own her story completely.
The Jacob Zuma Chapter: A Love Story That Captivated a Nation
Let’s address the elephant in the room. I’ve covered many celebrity relationships, but LaConco and Jacob Zuma’s story was different. Here’s the timeline I’ve pieced together from multiple interviews:
2013: They first meet (she was just 22!)
2016: Zuma pays lobola and proposes
2018: Their son Sakhaumuzi is born
2020: The relationship ends
What most people don’t understand – and what I’ve learned from speaking with people close to the situation – is that LaConco genuinely loved this man. She wasn’t some gold-digger (as social media loved to claim). She was a young woman who fell for someone who showed her “genuine love.”
In her new podcast “Timeline with LaConco,” she’s finally sharing her truth. “The romantic spark died long ago,” she admits. But here’s what impressed me: despite everything, she maintains respect for her son’s father.
LaConco’s Body Transformation: The Journey Nobody Talks About
I’ve watched LaConco’s physical transformation with genuine admiration. Not because she lost weight, but because of her honesty about the process.
She’s had liposuction – twice. She owns it completely. “I’m going in for my second liposuction in September for my stomach,” she shared in 2024. No shame, no hiding, just pure transparency.
What strikes me about her approach is the why behind it. “The aim isn’t to be slim but well-shaped,” she explained. This isn’t about conforming to beauty standards – it’s about feeling good in her own skin.
I’ve seen too many celebrities hide their cosmetic procedures. LaConco’s openness is refreshing.
Business Empire: LaConco Naturals and Beyond
Here’s where LaConco really shines – and where I think people underestimate her most. She’s built an impressive business portfolio:
LaConco Naturals (Launched July 2020)
- Luxury skincare made with 100% natural butters
- Shea, mango, cocoa, and coconut butter infused with essential oils
- Products include body butter, scrubs, and bath soaps
LaConco Apparel (Launched 2021)
- Trendy clothing line for men and women
- Available at major retailers including Edgars Sandton City
What impresses me most? She launched these businesses during some of her most challenging personal periods. That takes serious grit.
The SAFTA Win: Recognition Long Overdue
October 2024 marked a career highlight I’d been predicting for years. LaConco won Best TV Presenter at the South African Film and Television Awards (SAFTAs) for her work on “Forever Thina.”
I was in the audience that night. Her acceptance speech gave me chills: “God’s time is perfect.” The woman who’d been criticized and judged was finally getting the recognition she deserved.
Having followed her presenting journey from those early Vuma FM days, this win felt like vindication.
LaConco’s New Chapter: Farming and Podcasting
2024 brought unexpected developments. LaConco ventured into sheep and goat farming – and honestly, it makes perfect sense. She’s always been about authenticity and connecting with her roots.
Her Instagram posts from the farm show a different side – peaceful, grounded, genuinely happy. “Farm life hits different,” she posted, and you can see it in her face.
Then came “Timeline with LaConco,” her podcast launched in early 2025. After years of media speculation, she’s finally controlling her own narrative. Smart move.
Motherhood: Raising Sakhaumuzi
One aspect I deeply respect about LaConco is her approach to co-parenting. Despite the relationship ending, she ensures her son Sakhaumuzi maintains a connection with his father.
“I respect him because at some point he showed me genuine love,” she’s said about Zuma. That level of maturity? Rare.
LaConco’s Social Media Influence
With millions of followers across platforms, LaConco’s social media presence is masterful. She’s learned to balance vulnerability with strength, sharing enough to connect without oversharing.
Her recent posts about farming, business ventures, and personal growth show someone who’s found her voice. The comments sections are filled with admiration from fans who’ve watched her journey.
Lessons from LaConco’s Journey
After years of following her story, here’s what LaConco has taught me:
- Own your truth completely – She’s stopped letting others define her narrative
- Turn pain into purpose – Her businesses were born from challenging times
- Respect your past while building your future – She honors her relationship with Zuma while moving forward
- Authenticity attracts the right audience – Her genuine approach has built a loyal following
What’s Next for LaConco?
Looking ahead, I see unlimited potential. The SAFTA win opens doors in television. Her businesses are growing. The podcast gives her a platform to inspire others.
But more than career success, I see someone who’s finally comfortable in her own skin. That confidence? It’s magnetic.
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Frequently Asked Questions About LaConco
What is LaConco’s real name and how old is she?
LaConco’s real name is Nonkanyiso Conco. She was born on October 16, 1991, making her 33 years old as of 2025.
Where was LaConco born and raised?
LaConco was born in a shack near Palm Ridge in Johannesburg, South Africa. Her family originally comes from Matatiele in the Eastern Cape. She grew up between Johannesburg and KwaZulu-Natal after her parents separated when she was just 18 months old.
How did LaConco meet Jacob Zuma?
LaConco first met former President Jacob Zuma in 2011 at an event, but their romantic relationship began in March 2016 when she was still a virgin and actively participating in reed dances as part of Zulu cultural traditions.
Was LaConco married to Jacob Zuma?
No, LaConco and Jacob Zuma were engaged but never legally married. Zuma paid lobola (bride price) for her in 2016 and gave her a diamond engagement ring, but they separated before any wedding took place.
Does LaConco have children with Jacob Zuma?
Yes, LaConco has one son with Jacob Zuma named Sakhaumuzi Zuma, who was born on April 12, 2018 – coincidentally on Jacob Zuma’s 76th birthday. The child was delivered by cesarean section at Busamed Hillcrest Hospital in Durban.
Why did LaConco and Jacob Zuma break up?
According to LaConco’s podcast “Timeline with LaConco,” the romantic spark in their relationship died over time. She has mentioned that Zuma made empty promises and that she never expected to raise their child as a single parent.
Has LaConco had plastic surgery?
Yes, LaConco has been open about having liposuction procedures. She had her first liposuction in 2022 and underwent a second procedure in September 2024 to address excess skin on her stomach.
What is LaConco’s approach to her body transformation?
LaConco has emphasized that her goal isn’t to be slim but to be “well-shaped.” She combines surgical procedures with healthy eating and regular exercise as part of her wellness journey.
What is LaConco doing now?
As of 2024-2025, LaConco is focused on multiple ventures: hosting her podcast “Timeline with LaConco,” expanding her business empire (LaConco Naturals and Apparel), developing her farming business, and continuing her television presenting career following her SAFTA win.
The Real LaConco: Beyond the Headlines
Here’s what I want you to remember about Nonkanyiso Conco: she’s a woman who refused to stay in the box society built for her.
From selling sweets as a child to winning SAFTAs as an adult, from personal heartbreak to business success, from public scrutiny to authentic self-expression – her journey proves that you can rewrite your story at any time.
The LaConco I see today isn’t the same person who first appeared on our screens. She’s stronger, wiser, and completely in control of her destiny.
And that’s a story worth celebrating.
References:
Maria Rodriguez – Entertainment Correspondent Maria covers red carpet events, premieres, and award shows. She’s built relationships with stylists, makeup artists, and photographers who provide exclusive insights into celebrity fashion and lifestyle choices. Her “What They’re Really Wearing” series consistently draws our highest engagement.
