Nomzamo Mbatha
South African actress, human rights activist, and businesswoman
Nomzamo Mbatha (born 13 July 1990) is a South African actress, human rights activist, and businesswoman who has transitioned from local stardom to a global profile. Personal Profile Birth Date: 13 July 1990. Hometown: KwaMashu, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Education: High School: Bechet High School. University: Graduated with a Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) in Accounting from the University of Cape Town (UCT) in 2018. Family: Her mother, Manakutu Mbatha, was a teacher; her father, Skuta Nxumalo, is deceased. Career Highlights Acting Debut: Rose to fame in 2013 as one of the leads in the Mzansi Magic telenovela Isibaya, playing Thandeka Zungu until 2020. International Breakthrough: Starred as Mirembe in the 2021 film Coming 2 America alongside Eddie Murphy. Recent Projects: Shaka iLembe (2023–2025): Portrayed Queen Nandi and served as an Executive Producer. Assassin (2023): Starred alongside Bruce Willis. Television Hosting: Hosted major shows like All Access Mzansi, the BET A-List, and the South African Music Awards. Philanthropy & Business Advocacy: Appointed as a UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador in 2019, focusing on the plight of African refugees. Foundation: Founder and CEO of the Nomzamo Lighthouse Foundation, which provides education grants and support for marginalised youth. Brand Ambassadorships: First South African face of Neutrogena (2015). Collaborated with PUMA SA on her own collection, "Shandu". Brand ambassador for Audi, L'Oréal Paris, and Veuve Clicquot. Cultural Curator: Launched the "House of Amber" experiential space as a Cultural Curator for Inverroche in November 2025. Notable Achievements TIME100 Next 2025: Named as one of the world's most influential rising leaders. World Economic Forum: Recognised as a Young Global Leader (YGL) in 2025. Ludwig’s Roses: One of only three South Africans (alongside Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu) to have a rose named after her.