Gabisile Tshabalala - Biography, Career and Television Series

Gabisile Tshabalala is a familiar face for many, having established herself as a prominent figure on South African television. Known for her roles as a local presenter, actress, and songstress, Gabisile first captured attention when she debuted as Pinkie Mojeki in the SABC2 drama series Hola Mpinji.

Since her breakthrough role, Gabisile Tshabalala has ascended to stardom, leaving an indelible mark on the South African entertainment landscape. Her journey in the industry includes notable appearances in various films and TV shows, solidifying her status as a star on the screens of many South African households. Gabisile's versatility and talent have made her a beloved and recognizable personality in the world of South African television.

Early Life

Born on June 20, 1990, Gabisile Tshabalala hails from Soshanguve, Pretoria, South Africa. Her upbringing took place under the care of her grandparents, shaping her early years.

In her formative years, Gabisile faced the challenge of not being with her parents due to private reasons. Despite this, she pursued her primary education. Gabisile's mother remarried, and for undisclosed reasons, Gabisile had to navigate her childhood without her parent's direct presence.

During this period, Gabisile Tshabalala attended primary school, and her stepdad played a crucial role in her life. Contrary to any resentment, she appreciated him for fostering her self-confidence, particularly given her initial reputation as a reserved individual. Despite the challenges of her early life, Gabisile's relationship with her step dad became a source of encouragement, helping shape her into a more confident person.

Educational Background

Gabisile Tshabalala faced numerous choices during her college days, as she wasn't particularly inclined towards academics from a young age. Her lack of enthusiasm for school-related matters led to her decision to drop out of school. Throughout her academic journey, she harbored ambitions of becoming both a pilot and an actress simultaneously.

Juggling diverse aspirations proved challenging, and Gabisile found herself missing lectures, only attending during crucial times like examinations, assignments, and significant school events. However, her passion for acting eventually took center stage in her life.

Driven by her newfound love for the performing arts, Gabisile Tshabalala took a proactive step by enrolling in the State Theatre in Pretoria. Here, she embarked on a journey of learning and skill development, taking classes to hone her acting talents. This was how her focus shifted from the uncertainties of her college days to a dedicated pursuit of her passion for acting.

Career

After completing her acting classes, Gabisile Tshabalala started attending various auditions, seeking acting opportunities. Her breakthrough moment arrived when she secured her first role as Pinkie Mojeki in the SABC2 drama series Hola Mpinji. This role caught the attention of producers, paving the way for more opportunities in the industry.

In 2011, Gabisile landed the role of Sylvia in the TV show Intersexions. Shortly thereafter, she joined the cast of Scandal! portraying the character Gontse. Interestingly, Gabisile had initially applied for a role in the telenovela after responding to a casting call. Her portrayal of Gontse in Scandal! became a defining role, making her recognizable to many fans.

Amidst speculation about her departure from Scandal!, Gabisile kept her exit from the soapie a secret. Fans were left confused, with some speculating that she had been fired due to pregnancy. However, two years later, she revealed that she had left the show to embrace motherhood.

Post-Scandal!, Gabisile Tshabalala continued to make waves in the entertainment industry, securing roles in series such as Kota Life Crisis and co-hosting the SABC1 talk show Throwback Thursday – #TBT.

Before gaining fame as an actress, Gabisile Tshabalala had a noteworthy chapter as a professional boxer, participating in international competitions. Beyond acting, she runs the independent entertainment show Around Africa with Gabi, aiming to enlighten South Africans about celebrities from across the African continent.

Adding to her multifaceted career, Gabisile serves as a local TV presenter, taking on the role of presenter for the Mzansi reality show Stena Redemption. Her diverse talents and contributions have made Gabisile Tshabalala a well-rounded and respected figure in the South African entertainment landscape.

Personal Life

Gabisile Tshabalala has experienced the journey of marriage twice. Unfortunately, her first marriage did not stand the test of time, leading to a divorce. In her current marital chapter, she is happily married to Sacha Maswa Kongolo.

The story of Gabisile's second marriage began when she met Sacha at Scandal!, where he worked as a security guard. Their professional acquaintance blossomed into a romantic relationship, and as their connection deepened, they exchanged vows in 2015 in Mzansi. However, the lovebirds took a meaningful step two years later when they traveled to the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Sacha's homeland, to have a small ceremony commemorating their union.

Presently, Sacha Maswa Kongolo has ventured into the security business, running a company that provides services such as camera installations, security personnel, and bodyguarding.

Gabisile Tshabalala is a mother of five children. In an interview, she shared that, while she recently welcomed her biological kids, she had already embraced the role of a mother through the adoption of three children. These adopted children are Sacha's from previous relationships. Gabisile welcomed her second biological child in 2020.

Television

Besides Scandal! and Hola Mpinji, her two most famous works, the actress has starred in other projects. 

Losing Lerato Fallen s1 

Kota Life Crisis s1 

Mzansi Love s2 

The Black Door s1 

Single Guyz s1 

Intersexions s1