“My mother died two months after I got my first acting job”

Siyabonga Sepotokele, known for his portrayal of ‘Sakhile’ on E.TV’s Smoke and Mirrors, is a multi-talented South African actor and singer. Born and raised in Orlando East, Soweto, on October 23, 1996, he is celebrated for his diverse acting roles in various TV productions.


 

Sepotokele has left his mark on the small screen with memorable characters such as Njabulo in The River, ‘Donald’ in Lingashoni, Karabo in The Republic, and the intriguing Mac’able in Impilo: The Scam. His current endeavor sees him embodying the character of ‘Sakhile’ in the popular soap opera Smoke and Mirrors.

Raised by his late parents, Phyllis Sepotokele and Shadrack Ta Sello Ntsibande, Siyabonga experienced the loss of his mother to cervical cancer in January 2017, shortly after landing his first acting role as Le-Hasa on Keeping Score. Despite facing personal challenges, he remained dedicated to his craft and continued to pursue his passion for acting.

Sepotokele’s journey through education and the arts reflects his commitment to excellence. He attended Sivuleleni Primary School and later Zifuneleni Junior Secondary School in Soweto before earning a full scholarship to St. David’s Marist Inanda, a prestigious private secondary school in Johannesburg. Although initially drawn to a career in music, he eventually shifted his focus to acting, embarking on his professional journey.

While his decision to leave Wits University and pursue acting raised eyebrows, Sepotokele remained steadfast in his pursuit of his dreams. His breakout role in Keeping Score marked the beginning of a promising career, leading to appearances in various television series and dramas.

Despite his transition away from formal music education, Sepotokele’s vocal talent continues to shine. He showcased his singing prowess at the Lovermore Yamaha music competition in 2013, impressing audiences with his renditions of classical repertoire. His exceptional performance earned him recognition and accolades, reinforcing his status as a gifted vocalist.

Beyond his artistic achievements, Siyabonga Sepotokele serves as an inspiration to many young people, demonstrating the importance of following one’s passions and pursuing dreams relentlessly. With his talent, dedication, and resilience, he continues to captivate audiences and make a significant impact in the entertainment industry.