Nothando Ngcobo is a South African actress who plays the role of Hlelo on SABC 1 soapie Uzalo and Prudence Thabethe on Lingashoni.

Apart from her Uzalo character which she recently started playing she is also on 1 Magic’s Lingashoni. Nothando has also been doing movies that will be playing at The Silicon Valley African Film Festival in California, USA.

If you’re a big fan of Uzalo then you probably know that Hlelo is portrayed as someone who has a broken soul and lives in a very harsh condition in the streets and she’s a victim of domestic abuse. She’s the one who helped Gabisile when she was at her weakest point! And that’s how Hlelo’s life was transformed for the better.
Nothando Ngcobo early life

Ngcobo was born in Hammarsdale a township in Mpumalanga, she moved to Joburg to study for her Degree in Media and Creative Arts.

For those who didn’t know, Hlelo was once rejected by Generations The Legacy because she was told that she doesn’t fit the character they were looking for at that time. However, The role was later taken by Buntu Petse who plays the role of “Nontle Majola” – the biological daughter of Ayanda Majola and Tau Mogale. Majority of social media users believe that this was the best choice Generations The Legacy has ever made. Buntu Petse is a great actor herself. She’s good at acting and currently doing a perfect job when it comes to the “Notle” character on Generations The Legacy.

But this does not change the fact that Nothando Ngcobo is proof that hard work, resilience and patience pays in life. In the early stages of her career, Nothando encountered a lot of abuse and rejection in the industry.

Describing the rejection ordeal, Nothando revealed that due to rejection she nearly gave up acting despite it being what she wanted to do since childhood.

Nothando was a victim of rejection and humiliation during her trying times. She was humiliated to an extent that she even though of giving up on her dreams. However, according to her—God wanted to raise her by allowing bad things to happen to her.

Her breakthrough was made possible by God and overcoming challenges that were beyond her control. “I have managed to overcome rejection through prayer and accepting that some of the jobs I had auditioned for were just not for me at the time”, she said.

Nothando had a difficult time trying to fit into the Hlelo character on Uzalo until made a huge sacrifice which was giving up her real-life character. By doing this – Nothando was able to fully portray how women in South Africa suffer at the hands men. Nothando believes that one day, the whole of South Africa will remember her for the advocacy role she portrayed with the intention of educating the nation about domestic violence.

Hlelo from Uzalo’s real-life boyfriend

Nothando is off the market, she is currently dating a supportive and encouraging unnamed boyfriend whom she always thanks for playing a vital role in her career. At this rate, c

Nsikelelo Mthiyane is a South African actress and radio presenter best known for starring as the titular character in the Mzansi Wethu soapie Sibongile & the Dlaminis.

Hailing from Richards Bay in KwaZulu-Natal, she matriculated from Lizwi High School in 2019.

She furthered her education by studying for a teaching degree and a journalism degree at the Durban University of Technology.

 

 

 

 
Nsikelelo co-hosted a Saturday show called Youth Scrutinize on North Coast Radio 104.0; and was a sportscaster at Durban Youth Radio Station.

Despite no prior acting experience, she was chosen to replace Luyanda Zwane in the role of Sibongile for the second season of the Mzansi Wethu soapie Sibongile & the Dlaminis, in 2024.Nsikelelo Mthiyane is a rising star in South Africa’s entertainment industry. At just 21 years old, she has made a significant mark in television, most notably for her leading role as Sibongile in the popular Mzansi Wethu drama series Sibongile & The Dlaminis. Nsikelelo’s path to success is a testament to her talent, resilience, and determination, earning her recognition as a promising young actress in the country.Biography and Early Life
Nsikelelo Mthiyane was born in 2003 in Richards Bay, a vibrant town in the KwaZulu-Natal province of South Africa. Growing up, she harbored a deep passion for acting and dreamed of gracing the screens. Her early life was filled with enthusiasm for the arts and sports, balancing her interests with academic pursuits.

RELATED: Londeka Sishi: Biography, Age, Career, and Personal Life

Her first brush with acting came at the tender age of 14 when she was cast in a film project. Unfortunately, the project faced financial setbacks and was never released. Despite this initial disappointment, the experience fueled Nsikelelo’s passion for acting and solidified her aspirations in the entertainment industry.

In school, Nsikelelo was not only academically inclined but also a sports enthusiast, excelling in athletics. She once likened her transition into the lead role in Sibongile & The Dlaminis to the handover of a baton in a relay race, symbolizing her readiness to take on challenges and carry forward the legacy of the character.Nsikelelo’s dedication to education is equally commendable. She earned a teaching degree, showcasing her commitment to lifelong learning. Currently, she is pursuing a journalism degree, a choice that reflects her diverse interests and desire to explore different facets of communication and storytelling.

Personal Life
Despite her growing fame, Nsikelelo remains grounded and focused on her goals. Her upbringing in Richards Bay instilled values of hard work and perseverance. She balances her career and education, proving that determination can help one achieve multiple aspirations simultaneously. Nsikelelo’s personal experiences and background have undoubtedly shaped her approach to acting and life in general.

*Skeem Saam* fans, get ready for a month filled with drama, suspense, and twists as February unfolds! Here’s what you can expect from your favorite SABC1 soapie airing Monday to Friday at 19:30.

### **Week 1: Challenges and Tensions**
**Monday, 3 February 2025 (Episode 156)**
A young couple faces an unexpected hurdle, testing their bond. Meanwhile, Melita’s zeal for a new project creates friction with Mr. Kgomo, and Phomolo takes steps to pay lobola for Pretty.

 

**Tuesday, 4 February 2025 (Episode 157)**
Elizabeth grapples with a tough decision, while suspicions arise regarding Mapitsi’s colleague. Melita sets aside her aspirations to appease Mr. Kgomo.

**Wednesday, 5 February 2025 (Episode 158)**
Kwaito struggles with his wife’s choices, and Melita takes discreet steps to improve her life. Mapitsi and DJ Thomas find themselves in a risky situation.

**Thursday, 6 February 2025 (Episode 159)**
Kwaito and Lizzy’s relationship faces immense strain. Meanwhile, Lehasa’s life in prison becomes more dangerous after a chilling warning.

**Friday, 7 February 2025 (Episode 160)**
A desperate move by Kwaito risks alienating his wife. Melita encounters a ghost from her past, and Sesi Bertha witnesses a shocking event.

### **Week 2: Secrets and Surprises**
**Monday, 10 February 2025 (Episode 161)**
MaNtuli’s actions push Kwaito to his breaking point. Thomas surprises Mapitsi during a tense moment, and Melita reveals the truth behind her failed pageant opportunity.

**Tuesday, 11 February 2025 (Episode 162)**
A heated confrontation at Jacobeth’s house leaves MaNtuli stunned. Melita takes a bold step in her career, and Tbose is devastated by his brother’s struggles.

**Wednesday, 12 February 2025 (Episode 163)**
Melita proposes a daring new venture to Mr. Kgomo. Meanwhile, Dr. Blue delivers an ultimatum that forces Lehasa to face the dangers surrounding him.

**Thursday, 13 February 2025 (Episode 164)**
Mapitsi’s shocking confession shakes her circle, and Nkosi’s actions raise Petersen’s suspicions. Melita advances her plans with unexpected help.

**Friday, 14 February 2025 (Episode 165)**
Valentine’s Day brings surprises as Mapitsi receives a gift from someone other than her husband. Kwaito stands by his wife, but his efforts might be too late.

### **Week 3: Betrayals and Confrontations**
**Monday, 17 February 2025 (Episode 166)**
Elizabeth’s path to healing is thwarted by MaNtuli’s schemes. Romance lingers for some couples post-Valentine’s, while Melita takes strides toward empowerment.

**Tuesday, 18 February 2025 (Episode 167)**
Kwaito issues MaNtuli an ultimatum after uncovering her deceit. A key witness vanishes, pulling Pretty and Moss into a web of conspiracy.

**Wednesday, 19 February 2025 (Episode 168)**
A young couple’s marriage seems to crumble, and DJ Thomas avoids a question that leaves Mapitsi suspicious.

**Thursday, 20 February 2025 (Episode 169)**
Melita feels insulted by an offer, while MaNtuli begins facing the consequences of her past actions.

**Friday, 21 February 2025 (Episode 170)**
A scream at Tbose’s house terrifies his family. Melita strikes a deal with Khwezi Beauty, and Lehasa receives unexpected help.

Tonight on #SkeemSaam

Mapitsi is pressured by her own family to host DJ Thomas for dinner, leading to an uncomfortable situation.@Official_SABC1 pic.twitter.com/214xXxhJRx

— OFFICIAL Skeem Saam 13 (@SkeemSaam3) January 27, 2025

### **Week 4: Twists and Decisions**
**Monday, 24 February 2025 (Episode 171)**
Tbose considers drastic measures to protect his family. Friends warn Melita about Khwezi’s schemes.

**Tuesday, 25 February 2025 (Episode 172)**
Tbose confronts DJ Thomas about his bond with Mapitsi. Lehasa is shocked by Dr. Blue’s plans, while MaNtuli seeks counseling to repair her family ties.

**Wednesday, 26 February 2025 (Episode 173)**
Tbose struggles to mediate between his wife and mother. Meanwhile, Kwaito lashes out at Meikie Maputla, and Babeile offers advice to Tbose.

**Thursday, 27 February 2025 (Episode 174)**
Tbose drops shocking news on Mapitsi. Khwezi’s tactics to expand her business leave Joy questioning her ethics.

**Friday, 28 February 2025 (Episode 175)**
Pretty confronts Dr. Blue, while John decides not to intervene in the feud between Meikie and Mapitsi. Evelyn reflects on her goals.

Bonnie Bee In High Spirits Despite Big Brother Mzansi Eviction. Many viewers and fans of the show, really wanted her out. When Bonnie Bee got nominated a week ago, it was music to their ears. On Sunday, the big day came, and she was sadly evicted from the Big Brother Mzansi house. Another housemate evicted on the day is Savage.

Bonnie Bee became public enemy from the get go. This is because she chose Sipha-Lee over Dube even though it was evident that the majority of the housemates preferred the latter. Viewers felt this was not fair on Dube, and immediately wanted Bonnie out of the house. She also went on a heated altercation with Ashley Ogle, and a lot of people gravitated towards Ashley. Among other things her cooking skills and food handling was questioned by viewers and housemates alike.

 
On a more serious note, Bonnie B, was insensitive to Kayb’s rape issue. After Kayb opened up about her sexual abuse, Bonnie said to her clique that she will use it as leverage against her. This led to her getting a strike, together with Ashley.

Although she herself did not see this one coming, she has taken it all with grace. During her interview with Smash Afrika, she said she wouldn’t change anything she did or said in the house. Bonnie is also thankful to those who voted for her, and was all smiles. Her Instagram handler also oozes positivity, thanking Big Brother for the platform.

Olympic Silver Medalist Bayanda Walaza Enrolls With University of Pretoria. He is one of the Matric Class of 2024, who aced their examinations. Bayanda Walaza passed his Matric, attaining a distinction in isiZulu and averaged “closer to 70%” in attaining a bachelor’s degree admission pass.

The teenager was part of the men’s 4x100m relay team which secured the silver medal at the Stade de France. Walaza ran the first leg and helping Bradley Nkoana, Shaun Maswanganyi and Akani Simbine to an African record 37.57sec in the process.

 

 

 
At the time he was a pupil at Curro Hazeldean High School in Pretoria. This means that Walaza was juggling the Paris Olympic experience with his schoolwork. Curro High School’s Executive Head, Pierre Le Roux, revealed that Walaza has opted to pursue his studies at the University of Pretoria. This is despite receiving offers from the USA and various parts of Europe.

Walaza has chosen to remain under the guidance of his coach, Thabo Matibedi, who coaches both at the high school and Tuks University. The university has just confirmed that Walaza has enrolled with them. He is studying a qualification in Supply Chain Management.

“Hey TUT Fam! We are thrilled to announce an exciting new addition to our community. Olympic silver medalist, Bayanda Walaza has enrolled at TUT and is now pursuing a qualification in Supply Chain Management. We wish him all the best in his academic journey,” the university announced.

**Manaka Ranaka Displays Compassion Amid Grief**

In the midst of her own personal tragedy, South African actress Manaka Ranaka extended her love and support to fellow actress Brenda Ngxoli. Ranaka, mourning the loss of her first daughter, Katlego Ranaka, found the strength to comfort Ngxoli, who had recently revealed harrowing details of abuse suffered at the hands of her own mother.

Ngxoli, known for her roles in various South African television dramas, took to social media to share heartbreaking videos recounting her experiences of familial abuse. Her vulnerability drew widespread attention and sympathy from fans, celebrities, and the entertainment community.

**A Selfless Gesture of Support**
Despite her grief, Ranaka reached out to Ngxoli, showcasing an extraordinary act of kindness. Commenting on one of Brenda’s emotional posts, Ranaka wrote, “I am so sorry Brenda.” Other celebrities, including media personality Somizi Mhlongo, also offered words of comfort and pledged their support, with Somizi stating he was just a call away.

 

 

 

 

 
The gesture highlighted Ranaka’s selflessness, with many praising her for embodying the spirit of “ubuntu,” the African philosophy of humanity and compassion.

**Mzansi Responds to Manaka Ranaka’s Strength**
Social media was abuzz with admiration for Ranaka. Netizens lauded her for offering solace to Ngxoli while grappling with her own unimaginable loss. One user, @missprudish, commented, “Your extended support and love, while you are hurting, is the ultimate act of ubuntu. I have no words, but my thoughts are with you.” Another supporter, @mahlakomokone, shared, “We love you, Manaka. You are in our hearts. You are truly selfless.”

This wave of support underscored the deep respect and affection the public holds for both actresses during these trying times.

**Brenda Ngxoli Expresses Gratitude**
Following the overwhelming response to her revelations, Ngxoli shared a heartfelt message of gratitude with her followers. She acknowledged the love and support she received from strangers, fans, and industry colleagues alike. “You showed me love and listened to me. I thank God, and I thank you all so much. I never expected to post this journey, but I guess all wounds are revealed one day,” she expressed.

**Ferguson Films Steps In**
In a further show of solidarity, Ferguson Films, a leading South African production company, contributed R50,000 to assist Ngxoli. Headed by Connie Ferguson, the donation was part of a collective effort to support the actress as she navigates this challenging period.

**A Community of Support**
The outpouring of love and generosity from individuals and organizations alike demonstrates the power of community during adversity. Manaka Ranaka’s ability to extend compassion despite her own grief has set a profound example of humanity. Meanwhile, Brenda Ngxoli’s courage in sharing her story has inspired many to rally together, proving that no one is ever truly alone in their struggles.

Brenda Ngxoli Bags A Cool Awards Hosting Gig. Just a few days after it felt that her world was falling apart, Brenda Ngxoli is now back, bigger and stronger. South Africans came through for her with words of comfort, contributions and work opportunities.

On more great news Brenda has just bagged herself a cool hosting gig. She will be holding it down at the South African Traditional Leaders Awards. The prestigious event will take place in East London ICC on the 22nd February.South African cultural experiences

“Meet our Beautiful Program Director of the South African Traditional Leaders Awards ::: Brenda Ngxoli!!!! Our God is like that let’s meet at monti at ICC on 22nd February,” SATLA shared on their Facebook page.

 

 

 

South African cultural experiences
The award winning actress has been trending since her family drama became public. Brenda has been having family issues for quite sometime, and it gets worse by the day. A year ago, she opened up about the cruel treatment she gets from her sister. Brenda shared on social media that her sister, Althea Lumka Ngxoli has verbally abused her for years. It got worse when Brenda was out of work, and had to go back home. Her sister did not want her there, making Brenda’s life unbearable.

Now, Brenda is at loggerheads with her mom, claiming that she also mistreats her. In a sad video, the two can be seen exchanging words, with the mom banging the door on Brenda’s face. A lot of people, including her industry peers have, shown empathy to her, over her challenges. Mandisi Tshingana, a social media influencer, went as far as setting up a GoFundMe account for Brenda. Within a few hours South Africans contributed R50,310 which was sent to Brenda. Her former employee, Ferguson Films also contributed a substantial amount of money to keep her going.

Simphiwe ‘Simz’ Ngema’s son’s name was revealed to her in a dream years before he was even conceived. Let alone planned. In this particular dream, she shares that everyone around her was calling her ‘mama ka Kearabilwe Kemorena’, but at the time she was single and also very scared of falling in love.

The dream didn’t make sense but felt so real, she shared.

 

 

 

Simz Ngema with her son | SUPPLIED

“I was still just going through a lot of stuff at the time, and although I wanted a baby, I just didn’t know how I was going to get one. At the time, believe it or not, I was even looking into in vitro fertilization and those kinds of options because I just felt like I was so scared to fall in love again, scared to be in any relationship because I feared losing a partner again. But that particular dream felt so real that I knew that my son’s name was going to be Kemorena. No matter how it happened,” she said.

And when her little sonshine was born, the moment she carried him up until the time of birth, Simphiwe shared how that very moment felt like God was answering her. Especially as someone who has gone through so much trauma that it almost made her feel like God had forgotten her.

Kemorena became her answered prayer. The most complete part of her life.

So being a mother for the all-round performer has always been a dream of hers. The love for children and the special bond she shared with her younger sister’s child, with whom she had assumed the role of being a deputy mom at an early age, she knew that motherhood was a role she had to experience.

“But although I knew that he loved me so much and that I was his favorite aunt, when his mom stepped in, there was a completely different shift in the atmosphere. You could see his eyes lit up, and you could see that his entire world (his mother) had just come into the room. And that is what I wanted for myself—that different type of love that comes with being a mother,” she said.

Four years later, Simphiwe describes watching her son grow as nothing short of a miracle.

Katlego Ranaka’s Memorial and Funeral Services Details SharedKatlego Ranaka’s Memorial and Funeral Services Details Shared. Our deepest condolences goes to the Ranaka family as they grief the passing away of one of their own. Katlego Ranaka passed away on the 23rd of January 2024, at the tender age of 24 years.

The reality show star and singer was the firstborn daughter of multi-award winning actress, Manaka Ranaka. She just like her mother was a talented creative. Katlego was part of The Ranakas reality show, where she gained momentum as an entertainer. She was also a good singer, and together with her younger sister Naledi, they did some cool duets on TikTok. Katlego leaves behind her four-year old son, her mother, and her two younger siblings.

Manaka and her nice Thando Ranaka are the ones who have been updating the public since the untimely passing of Katlego. The two share identical posts both on Instagram, as well as Insta stories. Their recent updates, are with regards to the memorial and funeral services. Katlego’s memorial service will be held on Thursday 30th February at San Salvador Catholic Church form 14:00 to 16:00. The funeral service will be held on Saturday, 1 February, at the same venue from 08:00 to 11:00 before she is laid to rest at the South Park Cemetery. There will also be a candle light clap and tap ceremony on Friday evening at their home.

“In honor of Katlego’s wishes and in celebration of her life, the family requests that the attendees observe the black and baby blue theme 💙 🖤💙🖤💙🖤💙,” reads the message.

Nandi from Isitha the Enemy never dreamed of becoming an actor one day, but today she is on our screen. Her talent is opposite to what she said, sometimes you might think she grew up wanted this. According to her it’s like God planned the whole thing.
Find out more about her : biography, age , career , family, real name and moreSibonginkosi Mpumelelo Tenza is a 22-year-old South African actress. She came to the limelight when she landed a role of playing Nandi Mkhize in the etv risque drama series The Black Door. She was born in Pietermaritzburg in the province of KwaZulu Natal on 17 August 1999.

Biography Facts
Full name: Sibonginkosi Mpumelelo Tenza
Gender: Female
Born: August 17, 1999 (age- 22)
Place of birth: Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu Natal Province
Nationality: South African
Occupation: Actress
TV Shows: The Black Door
Known as: Nandi Mkhize

Early life of Sibonginkosi Mpumelelo Tenza
She grew up in Pietermaritzburg but later moved to Johannesburg where she currently resides. Concerning her childhood little is known to the public. For a young actor like her its quite obvious she developed an interest in acting at a very young age. But according to her one of her Instagram posts, she claims she never dreamt of becoming an actress but life forced her to become one, and its now her everyday life.

Her Instagram post reads as follows, “‘God doesn’t ask us if we accept this life. There is no choice. Life is forced upon you. The only choice is how you live it. Or not. That’s a choice as well.’ – Frances Shea (Legend). The acting was never a dream for me. It is and will always be my life.

For as long as I can remember I have been comforted, conquered challenges found healing learned to laugh at life and embrace everything that comes my way through the characters, storylines, and non-stop movies I have playing in my head. It is such a blessing to wake up every day not only doing something that you love but something that you know you were made for.” [ ³]

Education of Sibonginkosi Tenza
She attended and obtained her basic education from the local schools of Pietermaritzburg. Then she attend Pietermaritzburg Girls’ High school where she obtained her matric. Upon obtaining her matric she enrolled at the University of Witwatersrand known as Wits in Johannesburg in the year 2018.

Acting career of Sibonginkosi Mpumelelo Tenza
In 2022 Sibonginkosi Tenza landed a role in etv’s risque drama series The Black Door where she plays the role of Nandi Mkhize. Here she acts alongside big names such as Zamani Mbatha, Linda Sebezo, Ontiretse Radipade and Gabisile Tshabalala. [ ¹]

Her role of Nandi Mkhize in The Black Door
Sibonginkosi became prominent after appearing in The Black Door playing Nandi Mkhize. This was her debut role as she is not known of acting elsewhere other than on The Black Door. On this adult drama, Nandi Mkhize is dating Khaya played by Zamani Mbatha. But it appears as though Nandi is not aware of the source of income for her boyfriend Khaya.

She is book smart, having just graduated from business school at Stellenbosch, so she has somewhat of a worldly outlook on life. Although she is a respectful young woman from a humble home with upstanding morals, she can’t wait to finish her internship and move out of Emalahleni to be independent. [ ²]

Personal life of Sibonginkosi Tenza
Sibonginkosi Tenza is not in a relationship according to her social media bio. She speaks isiZulu and English as her means of communication. She is currently living in Johannesburg where she is pursuing her dreams.

Social media platforms to find Sibonginkosi Tenza

Sibonginkosi Tenza is on social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram. Her Instagram has got 2 thousand followers as of 2022. This where she post now and again about her personal life.