With its assemblage of renowned and rising actors and actresses, Imbewu: The seed has made waves in South Africa, amassing more than 14 million viewers. Created by Duma Ndlovu, with Anant Singh and Leleti Khumalo as executive producers, Imbewu: The seed questions the relevance of certain cultural practices in the modern world perfectly acted out by a unique crop of casts. Here, you will get to meet all Imbewu cast and characters and know what the show is all about.
What is Imbewu: The Seed all About?
In the show, Zimele Ngcolosi is a successful oil mogul who owns the company Maluju oil. He established his company with his friend Pranav Rampersad, and both men lived their lives determined to leave legacies behind. But a secret between those closest to Ngcolosi threatens to change everything. He discovered that his pastor brother, Phakade fathered all his four children (Nganono, Zithulele, Zakhiti, and Buhle) with his wife, MaZulu. When he heard this in church, he lost his cool as his supposed infertility was exposed.
Ngcolosi later got to know that he had a biological son named Nkululeko, working in his company as a security guard. When Ngcolosi and his friend and business partner Pranav died, Nkulukeko’s fortune changed as he inherited significant stakes in his father’s companies. But at the same time, he became rivals with his step-siblings and the children of Pranav as both families battled for ownership of Ngcolosi’s businesses.
The twists and turns that follow suit and the power struggle in the corporate world of the oil business all conspire to bring to us what has been dubbed the most popular TV show in South Africa. But who are these unique crops of casts that have continued to entertain us and bring varied characters to life? Let’s meet the Imbewu cast and characters.
Get to Know Imbewu Cast and Characters that make the show what it Is
1. Leleti Khumalo (54 years old)
- Real Name: Leleti Khumalo
- Character: Nokubonga Zulu “Mazulu” Bhengu
- Date of birth: March 30, 1970
- Cast Type: Main
- Appearance: Seasons 1-4
- Awards: Best Actress – Telenovela (SAFTA Golden Horn)
In Imbewu, Leleti Khumalo currently stars as Mazulu, the wife of Zimele Ngcolosi. Her portrayal of the controversial character has been applauded as captivating. She has not failed to capture the audience’s attention with her top-notch acting. Love or hate her character, one thing is certain, Mazulu Bhengu is truly memorable.
Leleti Khumalo was born on March 30, 1970, in KwaMashu, South Africa. She has always wanted to act as a child, and in her youth, she performed with the youth dance group, Amajika. Her acting journey kicked off when she was spotted and cast in the world-renowned Sarafina (1992), one of the biggest films ever produced in Africa, by Mbongeni Ngema. She went on to feature in more films produced by Ngema, such as Magic at 4 A.M. (1993), Mama (1996), and the sequel Sarafina 2 (1996).
In 2004, she went on to star in the popular film about the Rwandan genocide, Hotel Rwanda. In the same year, she also played the role of a struggling young HIV-positive mother in the film Yesterday. Her role was phenomenal, and the film went on to win several awards and nominations. She has also appeared on the small screen; back in 2005, she starred in the soap opera Generations Busiswe Dlomo, the sister of a power-hungry businessman. In 2015, after a two-year break to raise her kids, she joined the cast of Uzalo, where she played the role of Zandile “MaNzuza” Mdletshe.
On a personal note, Khumalo has been married twice. Her first marriage was to Mbongeni Ngema, but the union, which was marred with lots of abuse, lasted for 14 years. She got married to Skhuthazo Winston Khanyile in 2012 and gave birth to her twins on May 24, 2013 (she had been pregnant with triplets but lost one of the babies in a miscarriage). Khumalo also suffers from vitiligo, a skin condition she has successfully managed. Khumalo is also a radio show host and an accomplished musician.
2. Thembi Mtshali-Jones (74 years old)
- Real Name: Thembi Mtshali-Jones
- Character: Ntombi Ndlovu “Mandlovu” Bhengu
- Date of birth: November 7, 1949
- Cast Type: Main
- Appearance: Seasons 1-4
- Awards: Golden Horn Lifetime Achievement Award (2020)
Thembi Mtshali-Jones comes on board Imbewu with a wealth of experience and plays the character of Mandlovu Bhengu, the matriarch of the Bhengu family. She carries the role of an ‘African mother,’ who wishes for the survival of Africa cultures and values. The multi-talented singer, actress, and playwright was born on November 7, 1949, in Sabhoza, a village near Ulundi, Durban, South Africa. Thembi Mtshali-Jones grew up in KwaMashu Township, where she started her singing career by featuring in school concerts.
Later on, she had to leave school due to an unplanned pregnancy. Her acting career kicked off with Welcome Msomi’s original Umabatha, where she played the role of Thembi. She later joined ‘Musical Ipi Tombi,’ and became the lead female as ‘Mama Tembu.’ She then went on to have several tours across Africa, Europe, and the United States, expanding her musical tentacles and meeting up and performing with renowned musicians like Hugh Masekela and Miriam Makeba.
Returning to South Africa in the 1970s, she joined the Market Theatre and co-wrote and featured in many stage plays. She also toured the UK and USA with Malcom Purkey’s musical ‘Marabi’ and sang a ‘Happy Birthday’ song, which was televised on CNN for Nelson Mandela on his 80th birthday. However, her most iconic role has to be Thoko on SABC’s popular show in the ’90s, Sgudi Snaysi. She has gone on to write and feature in films and plays such as Mapantsula (1988), A Woman in Waiting (1999), Stokvel (2002), Truth In Translation (2006), Mother to Mother (2019), and many others.
She has received numerous awards both at home and abroad. She is an Honorary Citizen of Louisville and has been conferred with the Honorary Kentucky Colonel, the highest honor in Kentucky. Thembi Mtshali-Jones was married to Emrys Jones from 1999 to 2016 (he died from cardiovascular failure). She has a daughter Phumzile whom she is very fond of.
3. Tony Kgoroge (50 years old)
- Real Name: Tony Kgoroge
- Character: Zimele “Ngcolosi” Bhengu
- Cast Type: Main
- Appearance: Season 1-2, Recurring season 4
- Awards: The Vita Award for Best Upcoming Actor (1997) and The Best Actor at the Durban International Film Festival (Cold Harbour-2014).
Tony Kgoroge was born on April 21, 1974. In Imbewu: The seed, he played the role of the oil tycoon Zimele Ngcolosi Bhengu, who came on to replace Mpumelelo Bhulose, who had earlier played the role. Although his addition to the Imbewu cast came with mixed feelings from viewers, Tony has managed to execute his part with a peculiar style. He has thus far been well received; however, he later left the show as Ngcolosi after his character was killed off.
He is best known for his role as Jason Tshabalala in Invictus (2009), where he starred alongside notable actors like Morgan Freeman, Matt Damon, etc. He has also featured in movies like Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom (2013), The First Grader (2010), Hotel Rwanda (2014), Skin (2008), Hijack Stories (2000), Cold Harbour (2013), The Bird Can’t Fly (2007), Lord of War (2005), Blood Diamond (2006), etc. He isn’t left out of TV series as he also featured in shows like Isidingo, Dark Angels, Deafening Silence, Soul City, Madam and Eve, Homecoming and Life is Wild, and stage productions like Joseph, Mooi Street Moves, Fiddler on the Roof, Woza Albert and Equus.
Tony Kgoroge lives a very private life. However, he has been married to his wife Sthandiwe Msomi since 2004, and they have three children. He is also multilingual, speaking English, Tswana, Afrikaans, and SeSotho. He was faced with debt recovery in 2018.
4. Sandile Dlamini (57 years old)
- Real Name: Vernon Sandile Dlamini
- Character: Phakade “Shongololo” Bhengu
- Cast Type: Main
- Appearance: Seasons 1-4
- Awards: N/A
Vernon Sandile Dlamini was born on September 26, 1966. The actor cum musician is relatively new on the acting scene, but he has managed to steal the show with his remarkable acting. His signature long beard only adds to make the character of Ngcolosi’s pastor brother Phakade memorable. He not only knows and has kept the secret that binds the Bhengu family, but he is also a perpetrator. It is interesting to see how the story would unfold now that his brother is out of the picture. Sandile Dlamini has also featured in movies like The Bush Knife (2015), Stokvel (as Little Jerry).
5. Jailoshini Naidoo
- Real Name: Jailoshini Naidoo
- Character: Nirupa Rampersad
- Date of Birth: April 16
- Cast Type: Main
- Appearance: Seasons 1-4
- Awards: FNB Vita Award, Golden Peacock Award from the Indian Academy of SA, Durban Theatre Awards (Best Actress Award), etc.
In Imbewu, Jailoshini Naidoo plays the role of Nirupa Rampersad, the on-screen wife of Pranav Rampersad. The couple, who happen to share the same surname in real life, are so in sync that fans began to suspect that they were married in real life. Although this isn’t true, it speaks to Jailoshini’s wonderful acting skills. She can be described as multi-talented as she has carved a niche for herself in various fields despite earlier opposition from family and her ethnic background. She is a multi-award-winning actress, radio and television presenter, voice-over artist, MC, teacher, and businesswoman.
Jailoshini Naidoo celebrates her birthday on April 16, but her year of birth is unknown. She graduated with a B.Paed Degree from the University of Durban, Westville, majoring in Drama, English, and Education. She went on to study Public Relations at Damelin and communications at UNISA. Before venturing into acting and comedy, she taught English and Drama at the University of Durban Westville. See featured in many theatrical pieces, going by the popular name Aunty Rumba.
Jailoshini Naidoo starred in the comedy film Keeping Up with the Kandasamys as Jennifer Kandasamy, and Strike Back Season 1 and 2, a British-American action television series, as an Indian news reporter. Other movie projects include 3 Days To Go (2019), as Melissa Isaac, Karol (Italian), The Eastern Bride (British), and The Indian Detective (Canadian), Mr. Johnson (2020). She has also made a name in t.v and radio, as she is best known for anchoring Eastern Mosaic and Mela on SABC2. She then moved on to Lotus FM as an on-air personality.
6. Koobeshen Naidoo (59 years old)
- Real Name: Koobeshen Naidoo
- Character: Pranav Rampersad
- Date of birth: March 1, 1965
- Cast Type: Main
- Appearance: Seasons 1-3
- Awards: N/A
As one of Imbewu cast and characters, he is the husband of Nirupa Rampersad and a 49% shareholder at Maluju Oil, an oil company worth a hundred million rands and a business partner to Ngcolosi Bhengu. Despite his not so extensive acting career, he has captured audiences with his brilliant acting in Imbewu; perhaps his years as a drama teacher have equipped him for this. The fact remains that Koobeshen Naidoo is slowly rising to become a force to reckon with in the South African movie scene. Since his character in Imbewu has been killed off, he hopes to make more movies, possibly with The Dingalings.
Born on March 1, 1965, Koobeshen Naidoo is popularly known for roles in Keeping Up With The Kandasamys and the family series Imbewu. Koobeshen Naidoo went to the University of Durban Westville at The Ashoka Theatre. He met his wife Kumseela Naidoo there. They later went on to become drama teachers, and years later, they resigned. While Koobeshen went into acting, his wife took care of the family. The couple has been married for more than three decades with three children.
7. Raphael Griffiths (32 years old)
- Real Name: Raphael Griffiths
- Character: Zithulele Bhengu
- Date of birth: January 3, 1992
- Cast Type: Main
- Appearance: Seasons 1-4
- Awards: South African Film and Television Awards 2019
His character Zithulele Bhengu had a clash with his father due to the latter’s traditional views. To young viewers, he is a voice that upholds modern views on life, family, and culture. In 2018, he left the show and cast in Imbewu as the second son of Zimele “Ngcolosi” Bhengu.
Originally from the south of Johannesburg, the actor, presenter, and musician was born on January 3, 1992. He attended Hoërskool Die Fakkel, where he was a head boy. He made his t.v debut as a presenter in the SABC2 teen program qbase28 in 2009. He also hosted the SABC2 music show Music Moves Me (M3) and served as a presenter at the 10th Annual South African Film and Television Awards (SAFTAs). Raphael Griffiths is best known for his role as Vusi Mukwevho in the soap opera Muvhango. On a personal note, Raphael Griffiths is in a relationship with actress Thuli Phongolo.
8. Nokubonga Khuzwayo (39 years old)
- Real Name: Nokubonga Khuzwayo
- Character: Zakithi Bhengu
- Date of birth: January 15, 1985
- Cast Type: Main
- Appearance: Seasons 1-4
- Awards: South African Film and Television Awards 2019
Her role as Zimele Ngcolosi’s daughter in Imbewu is her first television acting role. Before then, she had starred in the music production of Lion King, touring the world for ten years (she joined the cast in 2017). For her first feature series playing the character Zakithi Bhengu, she left quite an impression onset such that she was recast as a starring character rather than a recurring one. As one of Imbewu cast and in her role as Zakithi Bhengu, she portrayed the tough cookie daughter of a millionaire who isn’t afraid to step on toes to get what she wants. She might come off as amorous, but there is no denying she is a force to reckon with.
The actress, singer, and dancer was born on January 15, 1985, at Umlazi, KwaZulu-Natal. She attended Umlazi Comtech, and in turn, went on to enroll at Coastal KZN TVET College, a technical school that focuses on commerce. She did several odd jobs before leaving to concentrate on her dancing, singing, and acting career.
Nokubonga Khuzwayo has a twin sister Nokwanda Khuzwayo, who is also a cast member in Imbewu. While starring in Imbewu, she became pregnant. Although her baby daddy is unknown, the glowing body positivity ambassador is happy to be a mom as she gushes over her pregnancy on social media.
9. Kajal Maharaj (39 years old)
- Real Name: Kajal Maharaj
- Character: Shria Rampersad
- Date of birth: August 18, 1984
- Cast Type: Main
- Appearance: Seasons 1-4
- Awards: N/A
In 2018, she joined the cast of Imbewu: The Seed as Shria Rampersad, the daughter of late Pranav Rampersad, co-owner of Maluju Oil. Her character is a driving force, who would let nothing stand in her way as she strives to keep her father’s legacy alive. Her portrayal of Shria Rampersad mirrors her real-life personality; ambitious, determined, and family-oriented.
Kajal Maharaj was born on August 18, 1984. She went to Danville Park Girls High School from 1998-2002 and graduated with distinction. Next, she went to Face 2 Face Make-Up School and obtained certification as a makeup artist and fashion stylist. She is also a trained dancer with experience in Indian, modern, and hip-hop dances. She is married to her husband, Nesan Pather, an accomplished marketing and business professional, and they have two children, Zorion and Kyros.
She later obtained a B.Sc Degree in Marketing and Media Studies from the University of KwaZulu-Natal. Her modeling career began as early as age nine when she won the “Ms Tinkerbell” contest in 1993. She has gone on to model for brands like Vodacom, NWJ Bridal fair, etc. Kajal Maharaj has won many beauty pageants and has represented South Africa and Indian culture in several others.
Her first TV debut was in 2007 in Broken Promises 2. The same year she went on to star in Run for Your Life 2 in a leading role. In 2008, she became the presenter of the SABC2 religious show Dharma Moments. She has also played the role of Veneshree in the TV series Isidingo.
10. Nkanyiso Mchunu (34 years old)
- Real Name: Nkanyiso KaNjomane Mchunu
- Character: Nkululeko Bhengu
- Age: July 14, 1989
- Cast Type: Main
- Appearance: Seasons 1-4
- Awards: N/A
Nkanyiso KaNjomane Mchunu joined the cast of Imbewu in 2019, appearing as a mysterious stranger running away from his past at the end of season one. His character Nkululeko Bhengu is the potential heir of Zimele Ngcolosi’s empire, given that the legitimacy of his children by Zimele Ngcolosi is in question. Despite his relatively few stints in the acting world, Nkanyiso Mchunu has portrayed his character well, keeping the audience at the edge of their seats.
Nkanyiso KaNjomane Mchunu was born on July 14, 1989, in Imbali township, Pietermaritzburg. He went to an acting school owned by South African producer and director Duma ka Ndlovu. His first t.v appearance was in Muvhango, playing the recurring role of Sizwe. It was followed by a cameo role on Ingozi as Justice before appearing in the sitcom Skwizas. He subsequently had a role in Soul City. Â Apart from acting, he has featured in an MTN advantage and done a voice-over for an ABSA commercial. Nkanyiso Mchunu has a young son and is presumed to be engaged.
11. Brenda Mhlongo (43 years old)
- Real Name: Brenda Mhlongo
- Character: Priscilla Madonsela “Kamadonsela” – Bhengu
- Date of birth: August 14, 1980
- Cast Type: Main
- Appearance: Seasons 1-4
- Awards: Broadway Spain Award in the Best New Artist, Broadway Spain Award as Best Artist both for playing Rafiki in Lion King
She replaced Fundiswa Zwane in the role of Priscilla Madonsela “Kamadonsela” – Bhengu. Madonsela is Phakade’s wife. She has to deal with her husband’s infidelity despite his pastorship and the likelihood he might take a second wife. As an award-winning actress, Brenda Mhlongo has done justice to this role, despite the challenges that came with filling a void left by Fundi. Like her or hate her, there is no denying that she adds her peculiar spice to the character.
Brenda Mhlongo was born on August 14, 1980, in KwaMashu, KwaZulu-Natal, while she grew up in KwaMashu. She started with acting at age 16, and her appearance in the soap opera Generations: The Legacy as Nandi brought her to the limelight. She has toured the world as Rafiki in the stage production of Disney’s The Lion King and has gone on to star in other t.v series like the political thriller Ihawu, Uzalo, The Queen, and a guest presenter in various music and lifestyle shows. In 2020, she replaced Fundi Zwane in Imbewu when the latter left for monetary reasons. She married Edmund Mhlongo (she got married at 18), and they have three children; Zama, Snikiwe, and Nethezeko.
12. Mduduzi Nombela (48 years old)
- Real Name: Mduduzi Nxopham’lando Nombela
- Character: Phunyuka Khanyile
- Date of birth: March 21, 1976
- Cast Type: Main
- Appearance: Seasons 1-4
- Awards: N/A
In Imbewu, he is Phunyuka the father of Ntombizethu. He is also Ngcolosi’s right-hand man who continues to help his sons even after his death. Acting comes easily to Mduduzi, and this talent can be seen with the ease with which he portrays Phunyuka.
Mduduzi Nombela was born on March 21, 1976, in uMlazi Township, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. He always had an interest in acting from a young age and was a good singer as a student. With the role of the young boy Menthi in Life in the City, he was able to put his talent to use. He later went on to get formal training from Bab’ Gibson Kente, Bab’ Duma ka Ndlovu, Bab’ Bong Ngema, among others. He has gone on to star in productions like Uzalo, Bigly Yuge, and Imbewu. Mduduzi is married with two daughters. He is a God-fearing and family-oriented man who is passionate about his art.
13. Nqobile Ndlovu (30 years old)
- Real Name: Nqobile Ndlovu
- Character: Nokukhanya “Khanyo” Bhengu
- Date of birth: January 11, 1994
- Cast Type: Main
- Appearance: Seasons 1-4
- Awards: Best African Actress, New Vision International Film Festival (NVIFF) in Amsterdam, the Netherlands in 2019
Nqobile Ndlovu was born on January 11, 1994, in Mariannhill, KwaZulu-Natal. Despite her mother’s disapproval, Nqobile chose to pursue acting as that was her career preference. Her desire to act made her ditch her chemical engineering classes to go for the audition of Uzalo. She made her debut in Uzalo as a choir member, a role she got due to her singing voice. She then landed a role in Ingozi as Nobuhle. She starred in Imbewu as Khanyo Bhengu, Madonsela’s daughter and MaZulu’s niece. The two women butting heads over her wedding and how she (Khanyo) resolved the issue with a wedding planner is a snippet of the many quarrels that plague the family.
14. Busisiwe Shezi (38 years old)
- Real Name: Busisiwe Mabusi Shezi
- Character: Sebenzile Madonsela
- Date of birth: September 1, 1985
- Cast Type: Main
- Appearance: Seasons 3-4
- Awards: N/A
In Imbewu, Busisiwe Mabusi Shezi stars as Sebenzile, Pricilla’s sister. Sebenzile came to take care of her sister’s family when the latter went to jail. Busiswe Shezi’s portrayal of the carelessness yet fearless Sebenzile has been described as flawless, a trait that has endeared her to the heart of viewers.
The actress cum musician was born on September 1, 1985. The joyous celebration singer has made a couple of features and has dropped singles like I Wanna Thank You (2019), I’m in Love with You (2018), Qhubekela Ekujuleni (2018), and Lord I’m Grateful (2018). Outside her career as an actress and starring in Imbewu, she has a son and still earns substantially from her music.
15. Vuyokazi Tshona (31 years old)
- Real Name: Vuyokazi Tshona
- Character: Buhle Bhengu
- Age: August 27, 1992
- Cast Type: Main
- Appearance: Seasons 1-4
- Awards: N/A
She was well on her way to becoming a professional farmer when fate came calling. Her twin sister asked her to try out in an audition, and she did and got a role in Uzalo. Since then, she hasn’t looked back as she enrolled in Joburg Theater to learn more about acting. Subsequently, she was featured in Ingozi and The Game. In Imbewu, she plays Buhle Bhengu, Mazulu’s spoilt and troublesome daughter. Her twin Vuyelwa Tshona is also an actress, and both are good singers.
Vuyokazi Tshona was born on August 27, 1992, in Eastern Cape, South Africa. With a B.Tech in Agriculture from the Tshwane University of Technology, she has continued to combine her acting and farming profession successfully.
16. Nay Maps (35 years old)
- Real Name: Nkosinathi Maphalala
- Character: Zenzele Maphumulo
- Date of birth: March 30, 1989
- Cast Type: Main
- Appearance: Season 4
- Awards: N/A
Nkosinathi Maphalala took over the role of Zenzele Maphumulo from Mlungisi Shabalala. Zenzele is a troublesome character who is on a mission to avenge the deaths of his brother Lungani Maphumulo and father Nkosana Maphumulo.
Nkosinathi Maphalala was born on March 30, 1989, in Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa. He majored in Information technology, programming, and software from the University of Pretoria. He started as a presenter. His first debut t.v role was when he made a guest appearance as Tshepo in the second season of isiBaya in 2014. He is best known for his role as Mxolisi Xulu in the SABC1 telenovela Uzalo. In 2018, he was a contestant on Season 8 of the reality competition series Tropika Island of Treasure.
Nkosinathi Maphalala owns the clothing brand ‘Nay Maps Clothing.’ He hopes to break into the Hollywood scene in the future. Nay Maps is also a talented singer; although not professional now, he has sung many cover songs.
17. Vuyiseka Cawe (36 years old)
- Real Name: Vuyiseka Cawe
- Character: Nokuzola “Zola” Ndamase – Bhengu
- Cast Type: Main
- Appearance: Seasons 2-4
- Awards: N/A
In December 2019, Cawe joined the cast of Imbewu: The Seed as Nokuzola, the wife of Zithulele( the CEO of Shongololo Oils) and the lawyer of Shongololo Oils. Like her role as Listerina in The Queen, Care has won the heart of her audience with her performance as Nokuzola Ndamase, a character that started as sweet and innocent but is now entangled with two brothers of the Bhengu Family.
Vuyiseka Cawe was born on August 1, 1987, in Port Elizabeth, where she also grew up. As one of four children, she was left to support her siblings when her mother and grandmother died within days of each other in 2016. Her acting career started in Port Elizabeth, where she acted in plays and was part of other art projects. To increase her chances, she moved to Johannesburg and studied at Duma Ndlovu Actors Academy. She then worked with Themba Interactive Theatre Group, traveling across the counter and performing in the poor areas.
She has starred in various productions like Generations: The Legacy, Muvhango, Rhythm City, Ekasi our stories, Rockville, The Great Mistake, The Game, etc. The series that brought her to the limelight was The Queen; in it, she played the role of Listerina.
18. Phindile Gwala (37 years old)
- Real Name: Phindile Gwala-Ngandu
- Character: Fikile Khanyeza
- Birth record: December 1986
- Cast Type: Main
- Appearance: Seasons 3-4
- Awards: Crown Gospel Awards 2021
In Imbewu, she plays the character of Fikile, who is Nkululeko’s fierce girlfriend. However, it was revealed later that the two are siblings. Her portrayal of the calm yet fierce Fikile has left fans in awe and anticipation of the twist and turns resulting from her complicated relationships with Nkululeko, Zithulele, and Nokuzola.
Phindile Gwala was born in December 1986 in Eshowe, KwaZulu Natal, South Africa. Thato’s father died in a car crash when she was a baby. She grew up in a small village but later moved to Johannesburg to pursue her dream. She obtained her N5 business management certificate from South West Gauteng College after her entrepreneurship studies at Raizcorp. She started doing stage plays around the country in 2010. Her first television appearance was in 2012 when she played the role of Nonny Nkosi in Muvhango. She then starred in Uzalo as Diniwe. She has also starred in the movie Looking for Love.
Phindile is a seasoned entrepreneur; she owns a Shisa Nyama, a car wash spot, and a catering company. She is also an MC, motivational, and public speaker. Her husband, Armando Ngandu, is a Congolese model and businessman. The pair got married in 2018. Armando has a daughter named Lola from a previous relationship, while Phindile also has a daughter Thato from a previous relationship.
19. Mishka Gounden (30 years old)
- Real Name: Mishka Gounden
- Character: Mira Rampersad
- Date of birth: March 8, 1994
- Cast Type: Supporting
- Appearance: Seasons 3-4
- Awards: N/A
Mishka Gounden was born on March 8, 1994. She started her career as a radio personality/DJ and an on-air traffic reporter on Lotus FM. She first featured on Keeping Up with the Kandasamys in 2017 and later joined the cast of Imbewu as Mira Rampersad, the second daughter of Nerupa and Pranav Rampersad. Her character of Mira Rampersad, who plays the role of an abused girlfriend, speaks personally to Mishka Gounden. She hopes her role will enlighten viewers on the plight of abused women.
In June 2018, she was involved in a sex scandal when her sex tape, which she had sent to her crush Fahim Jamadar got licked and circulated online. Following this ordeal, she was fired from Lotus FM and faced severe criticism from the Indian community. After a failed suicide attempt, she picked up the broken pieces of her life and pursued her goals.
20. Anathi Gobeni (34 years old)
- Real Name: Anathi Gobeni
- Character: Lindo
- Date of birth: July 18, 1989
- Cast Type: Supporting
- Appearance: Seasons 1-4
- Awards: N/A
Anathi Gobeni was born on July 18, 1989. He received a National Diploma in Drama and Production Studies in 2015 from Durban University of Technology. He has been part of productions like Behind Closed Minds (2015), Same Differences, Poppy Seed, etc. In Imbewu: The Seed, where he plays Lindokuhle Maphalala, a supervisor at the bar Emsamo. Anathi works as a freelance makeup artist. He is also a presenter, voice-over artist, writer, dancer, and MC.
21. Gugulethu Mzobe (34 years old)
- Real Name: Gugulethu Mzobe
- Character: Nomusa Mkhize
- Year of birth: 1990
- Cast Type: Supporting
- Appearance: Seasons 1-4
- Awards: N/A
Born in 1990 in KwaMashu, KwaZulu-Natal Province, she developed an interest in acting at age 11. She later went to the University of Witwatersrand, where she obtained a certificate in Performance Art. She joined the Imbewu cast as Nomusa, a waitress at Emsamo. Starting with the show from 2018, her screen time has continued to increase as audiences couldn’t get enough of her. Her on-screen relationship with Thusheleni, played by the Zulu-speaking Indian Kaylin Soobramanian, and her drive to succeed and kind-hearted nature endear her to viewers. She is married to camera operator cum photographer Tshepo Otshepeng Ruele. She recently gave birth to her baby daughter Khamera. She has also written a book titled Slices of France and South Africa.
22. Ntokozo Mzulwini (32 years old)
- Real Name: Ntokozo Mzulwini
- Character: Lindiwe Msweli
- Date of birth: January 19, 1992
- Cast Type: Supporting
- Appearance: Seasons 1-4
- Awards: N/A
She joined the cast of Imbewu as Lindiwe and, alongside Gugulethu Mzobe and Anathi Gobeni, portrayed the roles in Emsamo. Her drama with her baby daddy and desire to make money and fame as an influencer adds juice to the stories that unfold at the Emsamo. Known among her family and friends as Miss Goldiva, Ntokozo Mzulwini was born on January 19, 1992, in Durban. She attended the Durban University of Technology, where she obtained a degree in drama in 2009. In real life, she has a child, but since she is a very private person, not much is known about the child or her baby daddy.
23. Nqobile Sipamla (40 years old)
- Real Name: Nqobile Sipamla
- Character: Thokozile
- Date of birth: February 9, 1984
- Cast Type: Supporting
- Appearance: Seasons 2-4
- Awards: N/A
In Imbewu, she plays Thokozile, the mother of Nkululeko. Thokozile is evil in every sense of the word, and the Bhengu family is the main target of her witchcraft. She is determined to have her way and wouldn’t hesitate to eliminate anyone who stands in her, including her loved ones. Her acting is very natural, and the fact that viewers hate her so much shows that she is doing justice to her role as Thokozile.
Nqobile Sipamla was born on February 9, 1984, in Pimville, Soweto. She has an Honours Degree in Live Performance (AFDA). Her debut feature was Thuli in Abo Mzala. She has featured in other works like Ashes to ashes ( season 2), Generations ( season 1), Uzalo (season 1), Sokhulu and Partners (season 2), MTV Shuga, etc. Nqobile co-owns a media and communications company called Refhuge. She is also a business role player and facilitator for different brands.
24. Kaylin Soobramanian (23 years old)
- Real Name: Kaylin Soobramanian
- Character: Thu Sheleni
- Date of birth: September 17, 2000
- Cast Type: Supporting
- Appearance: Seasons 1-4
- Awards: N/A
In Imbewu, Kaylin plays Thu Sheleni, a hustler who works at a bar as a waiter. His ability to speak Isizulu despite his Indian heritage endeared him to viewers and critics alike. Kaylin Soobramanian was born on September 17, 2000, in Phoenix in Kwazulu Natal but was raised in Bhambayi in Inanda near Durban. He went to Westham Secondary School. He learned to speak Isizulu from his friends while growing up in Bhambayi. Although his dream was to become a footballer, a chance meeting with Bab’ Duma Ndlovu in 2018 changed the course of his life. For now, he is studying at Durban Actors Studio. He is from a Christian home and has two brothers.
25. Muzi Mthabela (47 years old)
- Real Name: Muzi Mthabela
- Character: Menzi Vilakazi
- Date of birth: April 2, 1977
- Cast Type: Main
- Appearance: Season 3-4
- Awards: N/A
After Tony Kgoroge left the show, Muzi Mthabela was rumored to be taking over as Ngcolosi. However, the charming actor debuted in Imbewu as Zakithi’s new love interest. His exceptional acting skill still makes his performance something to look forward to, and fans are anxious to see how his plot develops.
Muzi Mthabela was born on April 2, 1977, in Eshowe in KwaZulu-Natal but raised in Clermont and eMandeni. He studied post-production and editing at the University of KwaZulu-Natal. He moved to Johannesburg in 1999 to pursue a career in the entertainment industry. In 2017, he made his television debut in the e.tv drama Harvest, where he plays Richard. He has appeared in shows like Jacob’s Cross, Dream World, The Road, Sokhulu & Partners, Ashes to Ashes, Saints and Sinners, Loxion Lyric, and Tempy Pushas. He had also made a name in Isibaya.
Muzi Mthabela is happily married to Zanele, and they have two daughters, Bubu and Bobo. He had once struggled with alcohol and drug addiction but is now sober. He had also wanted to become a catholic priest when he was young, but it seems his fate is in acting.
Summary of Imbewu Cast and Characters
- Leleti Khumalo (Nokubonga Zulu “Mazulu” Bhengu)
- Thembi Mtshali-Jones (Ntombi Ndlovu “Mandlovu” Bhengu)
- Tony Kgoroge (Zimele “Ngcolosi” Bhengu)
- Vernon Sandile Dlamini (Phakade “Shongololo” Bhengu)
- Jailoshini Naidoo (Nirupa Rampersad)
- Koobeshen Naidoo (Pranav Rampersad)
- Raphael Griffiths (Zithulele Bhengu)
- Nokubonga Khuzwayo (Zakithi Bhengu)
- Kajal Maharaj (Shria Rampersad)
- Nkanyiso KaNjomane Mchunu (Nkululeko Bhengu)
- Brenda Mhlongo (Priscilla Madonsela “Kamadonsela” – Bhengu)
- Mduduzi Nxopham’lando Nombela (Phunyuka Khanyile)
- Nqobile Ndlovu (Nokukhanya “Khanyo” Bhengu)
- Busisiwe Mabusi Shezi (Sebenzile Madonsela)
- Vuyokazi Tshona (Buhle Bhengu)
- Nkosinathi Maphalala (Zenzele Maphumulo)
- Vuyiseka Cawe (Nokuzola “Zola” Ndamase – Bhengu)
- Phindile Gwala-Ngandu (Fikile Khanyeza)
- Mishka Gounden (Mira Rampersad)
- Anathi Gobeni (Lindo)
- Gugulethu Mzobe (Nomusa Mkhize)
- Ntokozo Mzulwini (Lindiwe Msweli)
- Nqobile Sipamla (Thokozile)
- Kaylin Soobramanian (Thu Sheleni)
- Muzi Mthabela (Menzi Vilakazi)
