South African movie actresses born in the year 1978
Here are 7 famous actresses from South Africa were born in 1978:
Jessica Haines
Jessica Haines (December 11, 1978 Mthatha-) is a South African actor.
She is best known for her role as Tanya van der Bergh in the critically acclaimed film "Disgrace" (2008) which won the Golden Bear award at the Berlin International Film Festival. Haines also starred in the South African films "The Bang Bang Club" (2010) and "Bypass" (2017). In addition to her work in film, Haines has also appeared in several stage productions in South Africa. She was nominated for a Fleur du Cap Theatre Award for her role in "The Beauty Queen of Leenane" (2001). Haines is also a trained yoga instructor and has taught yoga classes in Cape Town.
After completing her studies at the University of Cape Town, Jessica Haines went on to perform in various stage productions including "Macbeth", "The Sewing Group" and "The Cherry Orchard". Her performance in "The Beauty Queen of Leenane" earned her critical acclaim and nominations for several awards.
Apart from her acting career, Haines is actively involved in many humanitarian causes. She is a Goodwill Ambassador for the Desmond Tutu HIV Foundation and has worked towards creating awareness and raising funds for various healthcare initiatives.
In 2011, Haines was named one of the Mail & Guardian's Top 200 Young South Africans. She continues to be a prominent figure in the South African entertainment industry and is considered one of the most talented actors of her generation.
In 2017, Jessica Haines starred in the South African crime thriller film "Bypass", which was well-received by both audiences and critics alike. Her performance in the film earned her a nomination for Best Actress at the South African Film and Television Awards. Haines has also appeared in several television series, including "Wild at Heart" and "Strike Back".
Aside from her acting career, Haines is also a committed activist and advocate for social change. She has worked with several organizations including the Treatment Action Campaign and the Sex Workers Education and Advocacy Taskforce, advocating for the rights of marginalized communities. In her role as a Goodwill Ambassador for the Desmond Tutu HIV Foundation, she has helped raise awareness about the impact of HIV and AIDS in South Africa, and has campaigned for increased access to testing and treatment.
In 2016, Haines co-founded Jomba! Contemporary Dance Experience, a platform dedicated to showcasing contemporary dance in South Africa. The annual festival has become one of the largest dance events on the African continent, attracting performers and audiences from around the world.
Jessica Haines continues to be a passionate advocate for the arts and social justice, and her work both on and off-screen has made a significant impact in the South African community.
Throughout her career, Jessica Haines has shown her versatility as an actor by taking on a variety of roles, ranging from dramas to thrillers. She has also ventured into the international film scene with her appearances in films such as "Endings, Beginnings" (2019) and "Mia and the White Lion" (2018).
Aside from her achievements in the arts, Haines is also recognized for her contributions to promoting gender equality and empowering women. She is a supporter of the One Billion Rising movement, which aims to end violence against women and girls. In 2018, she participated in the Women's March in Cape Town, where she gave a powerful speech on the importance of gender equality and women's rights.
Haines is a true advocate for positive change in both the South African community and the world. Her dedication to the arts and humanitarian causes has made her a respected figure not only in the entertainment industry but also in social and political activism.
Stacey Roca
Stacey Roca (September 12, 1978 Southport-) is a South African actor.
She is best known for her role as Rachel Bailey in the crime drama television series "Scott & Bailey". Roca was raised in South Africa and later moved to the United Kingdom to pursue her acting career. She has also appeared in several other popular television series such as "Vera", "The Bill", "Doctors" and "Casualty". In addition to her work on screen, Roca is also an accomplished stage actress and has performed in a number of theatrical productions including "The Long Road" and "Certain Young Men".
Roca started acting at a young age, performing in school plays and local theater productions. She graduated with a degree in Drama and Psychology from Manchester Metropolitan University before pursuing a career in acting. She began her acting career in 2006 with a minor role in the TV series "Doctors" and gradually gained recognition for her roles in various British TV shows.
In addition to her work in film and theatre, Roca is also an advocate for mental health awareness and has spoken openly about her own struggles with anxiety and depression. She is actively involved with mental health charities and often uses her platform to raise awareness and support for mental health causes.
Roca has also been involved in various charitable causes such as supporting the education of underprivileged children in South Africa. She is married to fellow actor Mark Frost and currently resides in Manchester, UK.
Since rising to fame, Stacey Roca has become a well-respected figure in the British acting industry. In addition to her television and theatre work, she has also acted in several films such as "Offender" and "Soulmate". Roca has been recognized for her outstanding performances, earning nominations for the Manchester Theatre Awards and the Royal Television Society Awards.
Aside from her acting career, Roca is a dedicated mother to her two children and often shares her experiences of balancing motherhood and her career. She has also talked about the importance of diversity in the entertainment industry and has spoken out against ageism and sexism in the workplace.
In her free time, Roca enjoys travelling and has visited several countries around the world. She is also a lover of literature and is often seen carrying a book while on set. With her talent and dedication, Stacey Roca has become a prominent figure in the world of entertainment and an inspiration for many aspiring actors.
Roca's pursuit of mental health advocacy has led to her participating in several events that raise awareness for mental health causes not just in the UK but also in South Africa where she has roots. She has also done public speaking engagements on the subject and has been praised for her honest and compassionate approach. In addition to her advocacy work, Roca has also co-founded a production company with her husband, Mark Frost, that produces films with social and environmental themes. Outside of acting and producing, Roca is an avid yoga practitioner and credits the practice for helping her manage her anxiety. Her commitment to her craft, advocacy work, and personal pursuits has made Roca a beloved figure in the entertainment industry and beyond.
Rolanda Marais
Rolanda Marais (January 19, 1978 South Africa-) is a South African actor.
She is best known for her roles in the Afrikaans dramas, "Kringe in die Bos" and "Swartwater". Marais also starred in the critically acclaimed South African film, "Rage", which premiered in 2021. In addition to her acting career, Marais is a published author, with her debut novel "Die Meisie Wat Verdwyn" receiving widespread praise. She is also a playwright and has written various plays, including "Mondvol" and "Fornuis". Marais has been nominated for and won numerous accolades for her work, including a Fleur du Cap Theatre Award and a South African Film and Television Award.
Marais started her acting career in 2005 when she was cast in the Afrikaans drama, "Kleine Niggie". Since then, she has appeared in many local productions, including "Donkerland", "Ballade vir 'n Enkeling", and "Die Boekklub". She is hailed as one of the most versatile and talented actors in the South African entertainment industry. In 2019, Marais was awarded the Standard Bank Young Artist Award for theatre, cementing her status as an important figure in the arts in South Africa. Apart from her acting and writing career, Marais is also a sought-after public speaker and frequently delivers talks on topics such as mental health, feminism, and diversity.
Marais was born in the Western Cape province of South Africa and grew up in a small town called Robertson. She developed a love for performing at a young age and pursued drama studies at the University of Stellenbosch. After completing her studies, Marais made her professional debut in the theatre production, "Die Laaste Karretjiegraf", which earned her critical acclaim.
Marais is also an activist for mental health awareness and has spoken openly about her own struggles with anxiety and depression. In 2019, she launched a podcast called "Onbeskaamd" where she discusses topics related to mental health, self-care, and personal growth.
In addition to her creative endeavors, Marais is a dedicated mother to her two children and frequently shares glimpses of her personal life on social media, where she has a large following. She is known for her warmth, authenticity, and commitment to promoting diversity and representation in the entertainment industry.
In her career, Rolanda Marais has also made a name for herself as a director. She has directed various theatre productions, including "Melk en Vleis" and "Stadig oor die Klippers". Marais is passionate about promoting diversity both in front of and behind the camera and actively seeks out opportunities to work with emerging artists from underrepresented communities. She advocates for greater diversity in South African media and has been vocal about the need for more inclusive hiring practices in the industry.In 2020, Marais published her second novel, "Miskien is ek Minder", which deals with themes of identity and self-acceptance. She is also a regular contributor to various South African publications and has written articles on a range of topics, including mental health, parenting, and the arts. Marais's impact on the South African arts world has been significant, and she is widely regarded as a trailblazer for the next generation of artists in the country.
Mbali Ntuli
Mbali Ntuli (March 28, 1978-) is a South African actor.
She was born in Durban, South Africa and grew up in a family of performers. Ntuli started her career in theatre at a young age, and later transitioned to film and television. She is best known for her roles in popular South African TV series, including "Uzalo" and "Isibaya". Ntuli has also appeared in several international productions, including the Netflix series "Queen Sono". In addition to her acting career, she is a social activist and politician, having served as the chairperson of the Democratic Alliance in KwaZulu-Natal province. Ntuli is a vocal advocate for gender equality and youth empowerment in South Africa.
She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Film & Media and Political Science from the University of Cape Town. Ntuli has also completed a leadership program at the Harvard Kennedy School of Government. She is an accomplished writer, having contributed articles to various publications on social issues such as female representation in politics and societal transformation. Ntuli is an inspiration to many young South Africans who admire her achievements both on and off screen. She continues to make a significant impact in her country, utilizing her platform to effect positive change in the lives of those who are marginalized.
Ntuli's interest in politics began at an early age and she became an active member of the Democratic Alliance (DA) in 2010. She was elected as the DA's Youth Chairperson in KwaZulu-Natal in 2012 and later became the Provincial Chairperson in 2015. Ntuli has been vocal about the need for the DA to transform and become a more inclusive party. In 2020, she ran for and lost the party leadership race against John Steenhuisen. Despite the setback, she remains a prominent figure in the party and is seen as a rising star in South African politics.
Apart from her political and acting career, Ntuli is also a philanthropist and is involved in various initiatives that seek to uplift the less privileged in society. In 2019, she founded the Mbali Ntuli Philanthropic Foundation, which focuses on education and youth development projects in KwaZulu-Natal.
Ntuli has received numerous awards and nominations for her acting work, including a nomination for Best Supporting Actress in a TV Drama at the 2019 SAFTA Awards. She has also been recognized for her activism and was named as one of Mail & Guardian's Top 200 Young South Africans in 2019.
Ntuli continues to be a role model for many South Africans, particularly young women who aspire to make a difference in their communities. Her work ethic, resilience and dedication to social justice are a source of inspiration to all who encounter her.
In addition to her many accomplishments, Mbali Ntuli is also an accomplished musician, having trained in classical music and opera. She has performed at various events and concerts in South Africa and continues to pursue her passion for music alongside her acting and political careers. Ntuli is also a keen sports enthusiast and enjoys practicing yoga and running during her free time. She has participated in several marathons and charity runs, using her platform to raise awareness for social causes that she cares about. Despite her busy schedule, Ntuli remains grounded and committed to serving her community, embodying the values of integrity, compassion, and service through her various endeavors.
Andrea Dondolo
Andrea Dondolo (July 22, 1978-) also known as Andrea Nomasebe Dondolo is a South African actor.
Born in Soweto, Johannesburg, Dondolo began his acting career in the early 2000s with various theater productions. He gained recognition for his role in the play "Woza Albert!" which explores the apartheid regime in South Africa.
Dondolo later transitioned to television and film, appearing in popular South African series such as "Zone 14" and "Isidingo". He also starred in the drama film "The Wooden Camera" which was screened at the Cannes Film Festival in 2003.
Aside from acting, Dondolo is also an accomplished director and producer. He has directed several stage productions and produced a number of films, including the documentary "Inxeba: The Wound" which was shortlisted for an Academy Award in 2018.
Dondolo continues to be a prominent figure in the South African entertainment industry, using his platform to speak out on social issues and advocate for representation in the arts.
In addition to his prolific career in the entertainment industry, Andrea Dondolo is also an active philanthropist. He is a founding member of the organization "Actors for Human Rights", which uses theater as a means of raising awareness about human rights abuses and empowering marginalized communities. Dondolo is also involved in various initiatives aimed at promoting education and youth development in South Africa.
Dondolo's talent and dedication to his craft have earned him numerous accolades, including a SAFTA Award for Best Supporting Actor in a TV Drama for his role in "Zone 14" and a Fleur du Cap Theatre Award for Best Performance in a One-Person Show for his work in "Have You Seen Zandile?".
Despite his success, Dondolo remains humble and committed to using his platform to make a positive impact on society. He is widely regarded as one of the most respected and influential voices in South African entertainment today.
Dondolo's love for acting started in his childhood, where he would participate in school plays and local theater productions. He pursued his passion for the arts and obtained a degree in Drama from the University of the Witwatersrand in Johannesburg. Dondolo also holds a Masters degree in Film and Television from the same university.
In addition to his professional work, Dondolo is also a dedicated family man. He is married with two children and often shares his family moments on social media.
Dondolo's advocacy work extends beyond the realm of the arts. He is also an active supporter of LGBTQ+ rights and has been vocal about the need for inclusivity and diversity in the entertainment industry. He has also been involved in initiatives aimed at addressing socioeconomic inequalities in South Africa.
Despite the challenges faced by the South African film and television industry, Dondolo remains optimistic and committed to telling stories that reflect the experiences and struggles of his people. He is a true icon of the South African entertainment industry, an inspiring figure for aspiring actors, and a champion for social justice, equality, and human rights.
Andrea Dondolo's dedication to the advancement of the arts in South Africa is reflected in his work as a board member of the National Arts Council of South Africa. He has also served as a judge for prestigious arts awards such as the Fleur du Cap Theatre Awards and the Standard Bank Young Artist Awards.
In addition to his work in the entertainment industry, Dondolo is passionate about education and youth development. He has been involved in mentoring programs for young actors and filmmakers, and has worked with schools in disadvantaged communities to promote arts education.
Dondolo's contributions to the arts and society have been recognized with numerous awards and honors. He was named one of Destiny Magazine's Power of 40 in 2015, and received a Naledi Theatre Award for Best Director in 2019.
Dondolo's talent, activism, and commitment to his community continue to inspire generations of South Africans. His legacy as an actor, director, producer, and advocate for human rights ensures that his influence on the South African arts industry will be felt for years to come.
Celeste Ntuli
Celeste Ntuli (August 25, 1978 Empangeni-) is a South African actor.
Born in Empangeni, KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa, Celeste Ntuli began her career in entertainment as a stand-up comedian before branching out into acting. She is best known for her role as Siphokazi in the popular South African soap opera, Isibaya.
Ntuli has also performed in various comedy shows and festivals both in South Africa and abroad, gaining recognition for her witty and outspoken humor. She has been featured in several local films and television productions, including Black Panther and iNumber Number.
Apart from acting and comedy, Ntuli is a trained presenter and voice-over artist. In addition to her creative pursuits, she is an advocate for community development and has worked with several organizations that focus on promoting youth education and empowerment.
Ntuli's comedy style is unapologetic and often centers around issues of race, gender, and culture. She draws inspiration from her upbringing in KwaZulu-Natal and the experiences of the people around her. Ntuli has been recognized as one of the most influential women in South African comedy and was listed as one of the "Top 10 Most Powerful Women in Entertainment" by the Cape Times in 2018. She has also won several awards for her comedic and acting work, including the Comics' Choice Award for "Comic of the Year" in 2017. In addition to her local success, Ntuli has performed at international festivals such as the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and the Melbourne International Comedy Festival. She continues to be a prominent figure in the entertainment industry in South Africa and beyond.
Ntuli is also passionate about empowering women and promoting gender equality. She has spoken out about the challenges faced by women in the entertainment industry and has used her platform to advocate for change. In 2019, she was named as one of the United Nations Population Fund's "Changemakers," a recognition of her efforts to promote gender equality and women's rights. Outside of her entertainment career, Ntuli is also involved in philanthropic work. She has been actively involved in initiatives that promote education and children's welfare in her home province of KwaZulu-Natal. In 2018, she worked with the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health to promote HIV/AIDS awareness and testing. Ntuli is widely regarded as a trailblazer in the South African entertainment industry and a role model for young women aspiring to make a name for themselves in the creative arts.
Ntuli's rise to fame has not been without challenges, and she has faced criticism for her outspoken humor and the controversial topics she addresses in her performances. However, she has remained true to her authentic voice and has used her platform to not only entertain but to also provoke thought and spark important conversations around social issues. In 2020, amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, Ntuli continued her philanthropic work by partnering with a local NGO to distribute food parcels to vulnerable families in her community. She has also used her social media platforms to advocate for adherence to COVID-19 safety protocols and to share information about the virus with her followers. With her unwavering passion for comedy, acting, and social activism, Celeste Ntuli remains one of South Africa's most beloved and influential entertainers.
Hlubi Mboya
Hlubi Mboya (March 2, 1978-) is a South African actor.
She first rose to fame in the early 2000s for her role as Nandipha Sithole in the South African soap opera "Isidingo." She has since gone on to appear in numerous productions, including films such as "Drum," "Caveau," and "Goodbye Bafana." In addition to her acting career, Mboya is also a philanthropist and advocate for social justice. She is the co-founder of the Women on the Frontline Foundation, which aims to empower and uplift women and girls in South Africa. She has also served as an ambassador for various UN organizations, including UNICEF and UNAIDS. Mboya is a well-respected figure in the South African entertainment industry and continues to be an inspiration to many.
More recently, Hlubi Mboya has become known for her work as a voice-over artist, lending her voice to characters in popular television shows such as "The Powerpuff Girls" and "Marvel's Avengers Assemble." She has also taken on roles in theater productions, including a production of the classic play "A Raisin in the Sun" at the Market Theatre in Johannesburg. Mboya is a strong advocate for mental health and frequently speaks out about the importance of seeking help and breaking the stigma surrounding mental illness. She has shared her own personal struggles with depression in order to raise awareness about the issue. Through all of her work, whether it be on screen, on stage, or in the community, Hlubi Mboya continues to be a powerful force for positive change in South Africa and beyond.
In 2016, Hlubi Mboya was appointed as a goodwill ambassador for the Nelson Mandela Children's Fund, where she continues to advocate for the rights of underprivileged children and young people. She is also a founding member of the South African Guild of Actors (SAGA), an organization that is dedicated to improving the working conditions and rights of actors in the country.
In addition to her impressive career, Mboya holds a Bachelor of Social Science degree in Industrial Sociology from the University of Cape Town, as well as a certificate in the Foundations of NeuroLeadership from the NeuroLeadership Institute. She has also completed executive education programs at both Harvard University and the Wits Business School.
Mboya is married to musician and actor Kirsten Arnold, and the couple has a daughter together. In her free time, she enjoys practicing yoga and meditation, as well as writing and reading poetry. Her talents extend beyond acting and activism, as she is also a skilled visual artist and has exhibited her work in galleries across South Africa. Through her many talents and passions, Hlubi Mboya remains a dynamic and influential figure in both the entertainment industry and the greater community.
Mboya's commitment to social activism also extends to her involvement in organizations such as Greenpeace Africa, for which she has served as an ambassador, and the National Council Against Smoking. She is passionate about environmental and animal rights issues and has advocated for these causes through various media appearances and campaigns. In 2020, Hlubi Mboya was recognized for her dedication to social justice and philanthropy when she was named as one of the 100 Most Influential Young Africans by the Africa Youth Awards. Her continued impact and dedication to positive change make her an important figure in South Africa and beyond.