Theresa Faith Simapungula is a South African professional makeup artist, beauty entrepreneur, and the founder of Terry Fleek Makeup Artistry, a five-star rated high-end mobile makeup studio based in Johannesburg. She established the brand in 2017 at just 21 years old while studying Marketing at the University of Johannesburg, and has since grown it into one of Johannesburg’s recognised luxury makeup services for bridal, fashion, editorial, corporate, and special occasion clients.

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Her journey into makeup began with a deep passion for art. From a young age, she was drawn to drawing, painting, and creative expression, which later evolved into a career in beauty and makeup artistry. She is proudly South African, born in Eswatini (Swaziland), raised in Limpopo, and based in Johannesburg from the age of 11. She carries a rich Xhosa, Zambian, and Congolese heritage, which she often describes as her “global creative identity,” reflected in her diverse and inclusive approach to beauty.

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Theresa studied at the National School of the Arts in Johannesburg, where she majored in Visual Art, before completing her Marketing qualification at the University of Johannesburg. After graduating, she worked in corporate marketing roles while continuing to grow Terry Fleek Makeup Artistry as a side business. In 2023, she took a bold leap of faith and transitioned into full-time entrepreneurship as a professional makeup artist and beauty educator.

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The name Terry Fleek is a combination of her nickname “Terry” and “Fleek,” meaning flawlessly done — reflecting her mission to deliver flawless, confident, and radiant beauty for every client.

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Her signature style focuses on soft glam makeup that enhances natural beauty across all skin tones, ages, and styles. She also offers one-on-one and group makeup lessons, empowering women to develop their own beauty skills and confidence.

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Over the years, Theresa has worked with celebrities, influencers, and public figures including Lwah Ndlunkulu, Sbahle Mpisane, Weza Solange, and Tanzanian music star Nandy. She has also collaborated with Nadia Nakai’s beauty brand, Naked Without Cosmetics.

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Her portfolio includes working as Head Makeup Artist for Bernini events, leading makeup teams for the Proudly South African Fashion Show and World South Africa Pageants, and providing beauty services for Africa Fashion International (AFI). She has also worked with leading designers such as Malondie, Sun Goddess, and Rubicon, as well as collaborating with photographers and hairstylists to deliver full creative production beauty experiences.

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With a diploma in Makeup Artistry and qualifications in Marketing Management, Theresa has also been recognised through business and entrepreneurship award nominations and participated in entrepreneurship development programmes.

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Today, Terry Fleek Makeup Artistry continues to grow as a trusted luxury beauty brand serving both local and international clients, known for premium makeup artistry, professionalism, and delivering elevated beauty experiences for brides, everyday women, brands, and high-profile clients.

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Outside of beauty, Theresa is deeply passionate about the arts - ART, Drama, Dance and Music which she uses as part of her creative energy and daily inspiration.