Actress Sannah “Sana” Mchunu has opened up about how Winnie Khumalo played a pivotal role in launching her career, making her the star she is today. During a memorial service for her childhood friend at the Market Theatre in Johannesburg on 15 January, Mchunu shared her heartfelt gratitude for Winnie’s impact on her life.

Known for her role as Zodwa on Gomora, Mchunu expressed surprise at her own success, saying she never imagined she could earn a living from acting. She revealed that her upbringing had been difficult, and she had children at a young age. For a time, she even locked herself indoors, ashamed of her circumstances.Her life changed the day Winnie Khumalo visited her. “We were neighbors, and she asked me what I was doing for a living,” Mchunu recalled. “I had just returned home after living elsewhere, and people had been talking about me.” She shared that she had no matric and was willing to take any job, even cleaning.

 

 

 
Winnie then suggested that they visit DJ Oskido and others, but along the way, she took Mchunu to an audition. The queue was long, and Winnie asked her to hold the spot. Unfortunately, Winnie couldn’t make it back in time, and the audition organizers asked Mchunu to audition in her place. Despite feeling unqualified and nervous, Mchunu was offered a role.

“If it wasn’t for Winnie asking me to come along, I wouldn’t be where I am today,” Mchunu said. “I’m truly grateful for her guidance and support.”