Nomzamo Mbatha - Biography, Career and Films

Nomzamo Nxumalo Mbatha, also known as Nomzamo Mbatha, is a well-known and accomplished South African figure. She wears multiple hats, excelling as an actress, TV personality, model, accountant, human rights activist, and entrepreneur, making her presence felt on screens both in South Africa and internationally.

In 2012, Nomzamo gained recognition as one of the top three finalists in the 2012 MTV Base VJ Search, marking the beginning of her journey in the spotlight. However, her most notable role came in the popular Isibaya soap opera, where she portrayed the character Thandeka Ndlovu from 2013 until her departure on March 2nd, 2020.

Beyond her soap opera success, Nomzamo Mbatha has achieved significant milestones. She was honored as one of the OkayAfrica 100 Women in 2018, recognized for her impactful roles, and served as a UNHCR ambassador. Her decision to leave Isibaya opened doors to Hollywood, leading to her role as Mirembe in Eddie Murphy's sequel, "Coming 2 America." Additionally, in April 2021, it was revealed that she secured a role in Saban Films' new movie, initially titled "Soul Assassins," later renamed "Die Like Lovers," and finally released as "Assassin" — notably, this became Bruce Willis's final film.

Early Life and Education

The charming TV personality, Nomzamo Mbatha, was born on July 13th, 1990, in KwaMashu, Durban. Her upbringing took place in the KwaMashu Township, located 21 kilometers Northwest of Durban in South Africa. Nomzamo's mother, Manakutu Mbata, works as a teacher, while her late father, Skuta Nxumalo, had reservations about her early involvement in beauty pageant modeling.

Nomzamo's family has faced profound challenges, including the loss of her older sister in 2009 and the tragic suicide of her younger sister, Carla, in December 2014. Wendy, recognized for her role in District 9, stands as Nomzamo's only living sister. Adding to the family's creative flair, Nomzamo's brother, Zamani Mbatha, showcases his acting skills on the popular soap opera Isithembiso.

Nomzamo Mbatha's educational journey took her through Sihlezi Primary School and Bechet High School. Later, she pursued a Bachelor of Commerce degree with a specialization in accounting at the University of Cape Town. Despite facing personal challenges, Nomzamo successfully completed her higher education, graduating in 2018.

The Mbatha family not only grappled with personal losses but also boasts a notable presence in the entertainment industry, with Nomzamo herself making significant strides as a TV queen. Her story reflects resilience and accomplishment, both in her personal life and academic pursuits, contributing to her well-deserved status as a beloved figure in South African media.

Career

Nomzamo Mbatha embarked on her acting journey after auditioning for a television show in July 2012. Her breakthrough came in 2013 when she joined the cast of Isibaya, instantly becoming the main character and earning acclaim for her portrayal of Thandeka Zungu. Throughout her seven-season tenure on the show, Nomzamo's performance garnered immense love from audiences in South Africa. Unfortunately, her character met a dramatic end on March 2nd, 2020, at the hands of Menzi Ngubane's character, Judas.

Notably, Nomzamo's rise to fame began with the 2012 MTV Base VJ Search, where she secured a place in the top 10 and later emerged as one of the three finalists. In 2015, she made her film debut in "Tell Me Sweet Something" alongside Maps Maponyane and took on a role in the television show "Umlilo" from 2015 to 2016. The same year marked the beginning of her hosting career with the reality travel show "Holiday Swap" on the South African Broadcasting Corporation. She has also acted in other movies like The Jakes Are Missing (2015) and All About Love (2017).

Beyond the entertainment realm, Nomzamo Mbatha has made significant contributions to humanitarian projects and charity work in Africa. Her dedication to social causes led to her appointment as a high-profile supporter of the LuQuLuQu campaign in 2017, eventually becoming a Goodwill Ambassador at the United Nations Refugee Agency in 2019. As the founder of the non-profit organization Nomzamo Lighthouse, she focuses on supporting child-headed homes, marginalized youths, and senior citizens.

Nomzamo's career trajectory continued to soar as she joined Eddie Murphy in "Coming 2 America" in 2021. The previous year saw her signing with the Creative Artists Agency. Looking ahead, in September 2022, it was revealed that Nomzamo Mbatha would take on the lead role and serve as an executive producer in "Shaka iLembe," set to air on Mzansi Magic starting June 18, 2023. 

Nomzamo Mbatha's exceptional talent in acting has opened doors for her to mingle with some of Hollywood's most prominent celebrities. She has had the privilege of rubbing shoulders with stars like Taraji P. Henson, renowned for her role as 'Cookie Lyon' on Empire, as well as Terrence J, Tiffany Haddish, and Ryan Destiny.

Beyond her acting prowess, Nomzamo has made a mark as a sought-after brand ambassador. In 2015, she achieved a milestone by becoming the inaugural South African face of Neutrogena products, showcasing her influence in the beauty industry. Her commitment to humanitarian causes was further recognized in 2019 when she was appointed a Goodwill Ambassador at the United Nations Refugee Agency.

Nomzamo Mbatha's partnership with major brands extends beyond beauty, encompassing collaborations with industry giants like L’Oreal Paris, AUDI, PUMA, and McDonald's. Her vibrant presence and versatile talents have not only made her a respected figure in the entertainment world but also a valued representative for renowned brands across diverse sectors.

Personal Life

Nomzamo Mbatha and media personality Maps Maponyane were romantically involved in the past but decided to part ways in 2018. Allegedly, the separation occurred due to reported infidelity on Maponyane's part involving several women, including Cape Town blogger Nadia Jaftha.

In January 2019, Nomzamo Mbatha was spotted in the company of cricketer Kagiso Rabada, sparking speculation about a potential romantic connection. However, it turned out that the two were merely seated next to each other on a yacht in Cape Town, dispelling any romantic rumors.

Currently, as of 2019, Nomzamo Mbatha calls Los Angeles, California, her residence. The talented actress and humanitarian have continued to make strides in her career, both in South Africa and internationally, while also navigating personal aspects of her life with grace and resilience.

Other Career Achievements

Nomzamo Mbatha's illustrious career has been adorned with various accolades and acknowledgments, testament to her exceptional contributions in the entertainment industry and her impactful humanitarian efforts.

In 2013, she was honored with the DRUM Darling Award for Rising Star, recognizing her burgeoning talent. Subsequently, the Feather Awards named her Hot Chick of the Year in 2013, solidifying her presence as a notable figure.

Her foray into film earned her an Africa Movie Academy Award nomination for Best Actress in 2015, a testament to her compelling portrayal of "Moratiwa" in "Tell Me Sweet Something." Beyond her on-screen achievements, Okay Africa acknowledged her influence, selecting her as one of the 100 Women Honorees in 2018.

Forbes Africa further recognized Nomzamo's impact, featuring her on the cover as one of the "30 under 30 creatives" in June 2018. Her commitment to humanitarian causes, particularly as a UNHCR Ambassador, garnered attention, leading to a prominent feature on the activism issue cover of Cosmopolitan. Notably, in 2018, she embarked on a journey to Kenyan refugee camps, showcasing her dedication to the cause.

The year 2019 brought additional accolades, including her appointment as a UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador and induction into the Golden Key International Honour Society as an Honorary member. Nomzamo's talents were further recognized with a nomination for Best Actress at the SASTAs (South African Film and Television Awards) and a Philanthropy Award from EAfrica!.

Filmography

Films

Isibaya          2013 – 2020

Tell Me Sweet Something 2015             

Holiday Swap 2016  

Coming 2 America 2021            

Assassin           2023  

Shaka iLembe 2023

TV Series

Umlilo               2016              

Lockdown        2019