Month: August 2024

On August 15, 2024, a heartfelt memorial service was held at the GNF in Durban to honor the life and legacy of Zanele Mbokazi-Nkambule, a beloved Ukhozi FM presenter and founder of the Crown Gospel Music Awards. The event drew thousands of mourners, including artists, pastors, and community members, all gathered to pay tribute to a woman who touched many lives with her passion, generosity, and unwavering love.

 

 

 

 

 

Among those who spoke at the memorial was Yolanda Myeza, an actress known for her role as Nomalanga in the popular show Sibongile and The Dlaminis. With deep emotion, Yolanda reflected on her mother’s profound influence on her life and the lives of her siblings. She emphasized how Zanele loved them as her own children, nurturing their dreams and ambitions with relentless support. “We were supported in every dream idea that we had; we were raised by force,” Yolanda shared. Her words resonated deeply with the audience, highlighting the strong foundation of faith and resilience that Zanele instilled in her family.

Yolanda recounted the challenges they faced, especially in the wake of Zanele’s recent cancer diagnosis, which came just three months before her passing. Despite the pain and sorrow, Yolanda expressed gratitude for the overwhelming love and support they received from their community during this difficult time. “Even when she was no more, we felt love,” she said, noting how the arrangements for her mother’s memorial and funeral services were made with remarkable care and support from those around them.Zanele Mbokazi-Nkambule was not only a radio presenter but also a passionate businesswoman who dedicated her life to uplifting others. Her commitment to the gospel music industry and her ability to connect with people made her a beloved figure in South Africa. The memorial service was a testament to her legacy, featuring live performances from various gospel musicians, with mourners singing along and dancing in celebration of her life.

As the service unfolded, it became clear that Zanele’s impact extended far beyond her professional achievements. She was a mother, a mentor, and a friend who inspired countless individuals through her kindness and dedication. Yolanda’s heartfelt tribute served as a reminder of the importance of family, faith, and community in navigating the trials of life.

In remembering Zanele Mbokazi-Nkambule, we celebrate a life well-lived—a life filled with love, purpose, and a commitment to making the world a better place. Her legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations, reminding us all of the power of love and the importance of supporting one another in times of need.

In recent weeks, the South African entertainment industry has been shaken by the news of Asavela Mngqiti’s marriage to Vuyisa Mqokiyana coming to a highly publicized end. This revelation has garnered significant attention, especially with the allegations of infidelity involving Vuyisa and fellow actress Buhle Samuels.

The Background of the Scandal
The drama began when Musa Khawula, a well-known social media influencer and entertainment commentator, revealed on his platform that Buhle Samuels and Vuyisa Mqokiyana were reportedly seeing each other. This was after Buhle Samuels had recently ended her marriage to Thando Sonqishe, which had only recently been celebrated with a traditional wedding in March 2022 in the Eastern Cape. Buhle and Thando’s relationship had faced challenges, reportedly leading to a separation before their ultimate decision to part ways completely.

 

 

 

 

 

 

As the dust settled from Buhle’s split, she allegedly moved in with Vuyisa Mqokiyana, prompting claims of an affair and raising eyebrows about the timing of these events. Reports suggest that the infidelity played a substantial role in Asavela Mngqiti’s decision to file for divorce from her husband.

The Fallout
The fallout from these revelations has been swift, with social media ablaze as fans and followers of the involved parties express their shock and disapproval. The revelation that Asavela is officially filing for divorce has led to a barrage of mixed reactions online. While some sympathize with her plight, others have taken to discussing the implications of such personal struggles in the public eye.

A recent court document confirming Asavela’s divorce has circulated online, further fueling discussions around the complexity of relationships in the limelight. This issue resonates broadly, as publicly documented relationships can both glamorize and complicate personal decisions, leading to intense scrutiny and gossip.

Who Are the Main Players?
Asavela Mngqiti, a talented actress best known for her roles in popular television serials, including Isibaya and Abomama, has been a beloved figure in South African entertainment. Just a few months prior to this scandal, she announced the joyous news of welcoming her baby girl, highlighting a deeply personal and vulnerable period in her life. Her journey through pregnancy, which she previously shared with fans, now casts a different light as she navigates her impending divorce.

On the other hand, Buhle Samuels, another prominent figure, is recognized for her role in Muvhango. Having recently emerged from her marriage, her rapid transition into a new relationship with Vuyisa Mqokiyana adds layers of complexity to her public persona. The dynamics of their connections pose pertinent questions about loyalty, love, and the repercussions of choices made in the heat of emotions.

Late legendary actress Connie Chiume’s son, Tumi, recently shed light on the grueling working conditions his mother endured in the entertainment industry before her unexpected passing last week. At the age of 72, Connie was still working long hours, which, according to her son, took a significant toll on her health.

Connie Chiume, a veteran actress celebrated for her roles in productions like *Rhythm City*, *Gomora*, *Black Panther*, *Black Is King*, and *Blessers*, tragically passed away after a “medical procedure” at the Garden City Hospital in Johannesburg. Her funeral service was held on Thursday, 15 August, at the Oasis of Life Family Church in Daveyton, where her family, friends, and colleagues gathered to honor her memory.

 

 

 

 

 

During the service, Tumi, one of Connie’s four children, took the opportunity to speak candidly about the struggles his mother faced as an aging actress in the South African film and television industry. He expressed his deep concern over the treatment of veteran actors, particularly how his mother was subjected to exhausting work schedules, despite her advanced age.

“Is it fair to work a 70-year-old 16 hours a day?” Tumi asked the crowd, highlighting the harsh reality that his mother endured. He continued by stating, “She was fighting for the industry. I saw it from behind the scenes; it was painful for me. She was not rewarded for what she was supposed to be. She was in pain because the industry was working her so hard.”https://twitter.com/KayaNews/status/1824024563040026931?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1824024563040026931%7Ctwgr%5Ea028a5a29c737dce8e72fe81ff334b825aef68ed%7Ctwcon%5Es1_c10&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fnews365.co.za%2Fconnie-chiumes-son-spills-the-beans%2F

Tumi’s words resonated with many in the audience, especially as they were spoken during Women’s Month, a time dedicated to reflecting on the struggles and achievements of women in South Africa. He urged those present to stand up and fight for their rights in honor of his mother, who had dedicated her life to the entertainment industry despite the challenges she faced.

Connie Chiume’s daughter, Thando, echoed her brother’s sentiments, promising to continue her mother’s legacy by advocating for better treatment of actors, particularly women and older performers. “I am willing to go the extra mile to achieve the goals my mom would have wanted to accomplish,” Thando declared, showing her commitment to fighting for the rights her mother had long championed.

Throughout her illustrious career, which spanned several decades, Connie Chiume was vocal about the numerous issues plaguing the acting profession in South Africa. She often spoke out about poor salaries, exploitation, and the lack of career longevity that many actors face. In an interview with Power FM, she lamented the absence of a unified voice within the industry, saying, “We’ve been in the industry for so long. Most of the people we started with dwindled. We don’t see them anymore.”

Chiume also highlighted the lack of a strong union to represent actors, pointing to the need for greater transparency and unity among her peers. “We don’t speak in one voice, and there is no transparency,” she added, underscoring the systemic issues that continue to affect actors in South Africa.

Connie Chiume’s death has not only left a void in the hearts of her fans and family but also brought to the forefront the ongoing challenges faced by actors in the industry. Her legacy, however, will live on through her children, who are determined to continue the fight for better working conditions and the recognition that veteran actors like their mother so rightly deserve.

INSIDE PEARL MODIADIE’S NEW ROLE
IOL confirms that the Redemption actress Pearl Modiadie will take on the role of Ayanda Gumede-Williams in Law, Love and Betrayal.

Her latest character is described as a ruthless and ambitious figure within the legal realm.

Modiadie expresses her enthusiasm for the series, which highlights the nature of law, love and betrayal.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

“‘LLB’ has a mix of everything: law, love and a lot of betrayal. It will captivate those passionate about law and breathtaking cinematography as well as those drawn to complex love stories and strong ambitious women in the corporate world,” says Modiadie.

NIMROD NKOSI JOINS ‘LAW, LOVE AND BETRAYAL’
The Rhythm City actress Pearl Modiadie will be joined by renowned TV personality and actor Nimrod Nkosi in Law, Love and Betrayal.

Nkosi plays the role of Gatsha Gumede, the founder of Gumede & Associates, where a power struggle over succession is developing.

Within the firm, secrets abound, and tensions rise as family members battle for control and dominance.

The upcoming drama series, Law, Love and Betrayal consists of 13 episodes.

It premieres on Showmax on 5 September 2024, with new episodes on Thursdays.

Mia le Roux made history on Saturday 10 August when she became the first-ever differently-abled Miss SA, opening a big door for inclusivity in beauty pageants.

MIA LE ROUX IS THE FIRST-EVER DIFFERENTLY-ABLED MISS SA
Outgoing Miss SA (2023) Natasha Joubert passed down her crown to Mia le Roux at the end of the Miss SA finale held at the SunBet Arena, Times Square in Pretoria. This marked an era of change and inclusivity as Mia made history as the first woman, who is differently-abled that was crowned Miss SA.

Mia was diagnosed with hearing loss at the tender age of one. she was blessed with a cochlear implant by her community when she was just two years old. She explained that this was lifechanging and allowed her to hear, in her acceptance speech.

 

“As a little girl I never would have thought that someone like me could become Miss South Africa. It is extremely powerful what this could mean to other little girls – that even if you have something that makes you different, you still can achieve your dreams with determination and hard work,” she said in her acceptance speech.

“At the tender age of two, I was blessed by my community with the gift of a cochlear implant. Family, friends and strangers rallied to raise funds for this operation – a life-changing opportunity that allowed me to hear. It was also the start of a long journey to listen to sound and connect with the world through speech, a journey that also has taught me to never give up,” she continued.

“It took two years of speech therapy and continued repetition of words before I looked up to the sky one day and said my first four words: ‘Kyk daar, wit wolke – look there, white clouds,” she added.

Take a look at five things to know about Mia here.

MIA LE ROUX REPRESENTS CHANGE IN BEAUTY INDUSTRY
Mia’s win is a win for all women who felt they did not previously fit beauty pageant criteria. The Miss SA Organisation started paving the way for change and inclusivity over the last few years. In 2019, transgender women were allowed to compete in the pageant.

In May 2023, the Miss SA Organisation announced that women who are married, are mothers or have tattoos are allowed to compete at the pageant.

“This year we have pushed more boundaries than ever before and we are delighted to welcome all women who are ready to step onto our leadership platform and be the next ambassador for South Africa,” said Miss SA CEO Stephanie Weil.

“We, as women, are so many things; we can be business owners, leaders, innovators,
influencers, mothers, daughters, philanthropists, role models, ambassadors and queens all
at the same time. Showcasing the multi-diverse nature of all of this will be at the core of the
competition,” she continued.

“This is a game changer for South African women, and it’s a bonus for us as an organisation, as it means we have a much larger pool of women eligible to enter,” she added.

While inclusivity was there before Mia, she is the first woman to win the pageant that did not necessary meet the previously deemed standards of being Miss SA. Therefore, her win is a win for all the women who never thought they could be pageant titleholders as well.

So, Mia marks the first-real change in the pageant industry.

WHAT DID YOU THINK OF THIS YEAR’S PAGEANT?

The recent passing of veteran South African actress Connie Chiume has not only left a void in the entertainment industry but has also ignited a conversation about the exploitation of artists in a demanding profession. Chiume’s son, Tumi, delivered a poignant eulogy at her funeral on August 15, 2024, where he shed light on the harsh realities his mother faced as a performer, particularly in her later years, according to The South African.

Chiume, beloved for her roles in productions like Rhythm City, Gomora, Black Panther, Black Is King, and Blessers, passed away following a medical procedure at Garden City Hospital in Johannesburg. Her death has prompted her family to speak out about the challenges that many actors endure, particularly older women in the industry.

 

 

 

 

 

 

During the funeral service held at the Oasis of Life Family Church in Daveyton, Tumi expressed his anger and sadness over the grueling conditions his mother was subjected to. He revealed that at the age of 72, she was forced to work 16-hour shifts, a situation he deemed unacceptable. “Is it fair to work a 70-year-old 16 hours a day?” he questioned, highlighting the physical and emotional toll such demands can take on an individual.

#ConnieChiume’s son Tumi speaks out about the poor working conditions her mother endured in the industry.

He says at the age of 70 #ConnieChiume was required to work 16 hours a day. KH #KayaNews pic.twitter.com/8jMeqo8h34

— Kaya News (@KayaNews) August 15, 2024
Tumi’s emotional tribute emphasized the pain he witnessed as his mother fought for her place in an industry that often overlooks the contributions of its seasoned artists. He lamented that despite her hard work and dedication, she was not adequately rewarded for her talent and effort. “She was in pain because the industry was working her so hard,” he stated, urging those in attendance to recognize the plight of artists and to advocate for change.

His sister, Thando, echoed these sentiments, vowing to continue the fight for the rights of actors in honor of their mother. She expressed her commitment to pursuing the goals Connie had championed throughout her career, emphasizing the need for unity and advocacy within the entertainment community.

Connie Chiume had long been an outspoken advocate for better conditions for actors. She highlighted issues such as poor salaries, exploitation, and the lack of longevity for performers in the industry. In previous interviews, she lamented the absence of a union to represent artists, stating, “We don’t speak in one voice, and there is no transparency.” Her words resonate deeply in a field where many artists struggle to make ends meet, often without the support or protections that other professions might enjoy.

As we reflect on Connie Chiume’s legacy, it becomes clear that her story is not just one of personal triumphs and achievements but also a stark reminder of the systemic issues that plague the entertainment industry. Her son’s call to action during her funeral serves as a rallying cry for change, urging fellow artists and supporters to stand up for their rights and to advocate for a more equitable industry.

In this Women’s Month, Tumi’s heartfelt plea resonates even more strongly, reminding us all of the importance of solidarity and advocacy for those who have paved the way for future generations. As we celebrate the life of Connie Chiume, let us also commit to addressing the injustices that continue to affect artists and work towards a more just and supportive environment for all performers.

The actress Connie Chiume’s “American husband”, David Joseph Jr paid tribute to her in a video circulating on social media.

He says in the video: “Our love story started that started in the early 1980’s is one for the books. The bond that we share was always unique but strong. It didn’t matter where my wife was in the world, she knew that Joe would be there and like many of you, I’m broken.”

He added that he finds comfort in knowing that Chiume loved him and lived her life to the fullest.

 

 

 

 

“My sweet Connie, I want you to know that I want to be with you today but know that Joe will keep you, your joy and laugh forever in his heart.”

“I didn’t just lose a wife, I lost a friend and an angel,” he adds.

IOL reports that Chiume and Joseph got married in Louisiana in the United States on 26 August 2021.

It is believed Joseph did not attend Chiume’s memorial or funeral service at Oasis of Life Family Church in Daveyton, Ekurhuleni on Tuesday, 13 August and Thursday, 15 August.CONNIE CHIUME: FUNERAL SERVICE
The family of the actress, Connie Chiume confirmed she passed away on Tuesday, 6 August after a period of illness.

Her funeral was attended by her industry friends and co-stars such as Sello Maake KaNcube, Sanah Mchunu, Katlego Danke and many more.

Chiume is known for her TV roles on Rhythm City, Zone 14, Soul City, Mazinyo Dot Q and Gomora.

Nandi Madida, a renowned South African singer, actress, and television personality, recently shared the heartbreaking news of her grandmother’s passing. In a poignant and emotional message, Nandi paid tribute to the woman who played an instrumental role in shaping her life, expressing her deep sorrow and gratitude for the love and wisdom her grandmother imparted.

Taking to social media, Nandi revealed her grief to her fans and followers, offering them a glimpse into the pain she is experiencing during this difficult time. Her grandmother, whom she described as a pillar of strength and a source of immense wisdom, was deeply cherished not only by Nandi but by the entire family. Nandi’s heartfelt message reflected the profound bond she shared with her grandmother, reminiscing about the countless lessons and precious memories that will stay with her forever.

 

 

 

In her touching tribute, Nandi expressed her gratitude for the time she spent with her grandmother, emphasizing how invaluable those moments were. She highlighted the importance of family and the enduring legacy her grandmother leaves behind, which continues to influence her life even after her passing. Alongside her tribute, Nandi extended her thanks to her fans, friends, and supporters who have offered their prayers, comforting words, and encouragement during this time of mourning. These messages of support have provided her with some solace, helping her navigate through her grief.

Nandi’s emotional words resonated deeply with her audience, sparking an outpouring of condolences and shared experiences from her followers. Many of them expressed their own stories of loss, creating a sense of community and shared empathy in the face of grief. Through her announcement, Nandi not only honored her grandmother’s life but also reminded her followers of the importance of cherishing their loved ones and recognizing the profound impact they have on our lives.

As Nandi Madida continues to navigate this personal loss, she finds comfort in the love and support of her family, friends, and fans. Her tribute to her grandmother stands as a touching reflection of the immense love, respect, and admiration she holds for the woman who played such a crucial role in shaping the person she has become today.

Miss South Africa Mia Le Roux addresses Chidinma Asetshina’s experience.

 

Mia and Chidinma joined other models in contesting for the crown, but Chidinma withdrew after being bullied and with the revelation of the Home Affairs department about her mother’s fraud case.

Speaking to Newzroom Afrika, Mia Le Roux said Chidinma Adetshina deserved to be part of the pageant.

“It was extremely hard for us because each one of us personally knows and loves Chichi. We truly believe that she did not deserve it, as we know she’s phenomenal, powerful, and beautiful in her own right. She deserved her spot on Miss South Africa,” Mia said.

The Miss SA further preached unity, as her goal as the reigning queen is to foster inclusivity.

“I stand for unity. I do not stand for people being divided. So, I do think we can do better in that aspect to support and include one another. Because she was excluded, and that is not okay.”

Fashion designer Enhle Mbali dons in dress designed for late Connie Chiumeby Limpho Nonkonyane
PICTURE: INSTAGRAM
Fashion designer and actress Enhle Mbali-Mlotshwa wears the dress she designed for the late veteran actress Connie Chiume at the Basadi Music Awards.

South African entertainment industry mourns the death of the veteran actress who recently lost her life after suffering from a short illness, at Garden City Hospital in Johannesburg. Enhle Mbali wore the dress she designed for the actress in March.

 

 

 
Taking to Instagram, the Essie Apparel designer shared that she made the dress for Connie but after learning of her recent passing decided to wear the dress in honour of her.

She says, “This dress like many of my others has a story, gonna keep it short though. It was completed by the @essie_apparel team for Mama @conniechiume in March. We ended up going for something more simple to save this particular dress for a lifetime achievement award. Then I was to use it for something else as I was in love with this baby. After finding out about mama resting I decided to wear it to the @basadiinmusicawards_sa this past weekend as a reminder to myself of how fab mama was. And oh boy did I look fab. mama’s #EmpressEnhle I will miss her stories, but oksalayo we looked cute.”

Since debuting her fashion label, Essie Apparel at South Africa Fashion Week in 2020. Enhle has won her first international award for Best Designer Collection at the Fashion Community Week, in America.