Nonhle Thema Celebrates Late Mother Cynthia Shange
OkMzansi | 27.07.2026 17:06
South African media personality and former television star Nonhle Thema has lovingly remembered her late mother, legendary actress and beauty queen Cynthia Shange, on what would have been her 77th birthday.
Nonhle took to social media to celebrate her mother’s life and legacy, sharing a beautiful throwback picture of Cynthia from her younger years. The heartfelt tribute gave fans a glimpse into the special bond the mother and daughter shared while honouring the lasting impact Cynthia had on South Africa.
In her caption, Nonhle wrote, “Happy Heavenly Birthday to my Mom
’Cynthia Philisiwe Shange “Today she would be turning 77 on the 27th of the 7th month of the year, 777 being the number of completion she finished her race strong on earth and is forever in our hearts
Thank you Ma Your Legacy lives on,you will forever be remembered.”
Cynthia Shange passed away on Monday, 20 April 2026, at the age of 76. Her death marked the loss of a woman who was much more than a mother to Nonhle. Cynthia was also a powerful figure in South Africa’s history of Black representation and broke barriers during a time when opportunities for Black women were limited.
She made history after becoming Miss Natal and later winning the Miss Black South Africa title. Her achievement cemented her place in history as the first Black beauty queen to win a Miss South Africa title, making her a trailblazer whose influence continues to be remembered.
While Nonhle’s birthday tribute focused on celebrating her mother’s life, the media personality has also been a trending topic in recent days following her interview on radio station 947.
During her interview with Thando Thabethe, Nonhle star shared her story, recounting highlights from her career and making some claims that left a few people shocked.
Thema asserted that she brought Twitter home to Mzansi after experiencing it in the United States (US), prompting local fans to join in massive numbers just to follow her.
She didn’t stop there. Thema also shared that her family was one of the first Black families to settle in the upscale Johannesburg suburb of Bryanston in 1990.
Nonhle has now shifted the focus back to her family, taking a moment to honour the woman who played an important role in her life. Through her touching tribute, she reminded fans that while Cynthia may no longer be here, her legacy will continue to live on through the people she inspired and the memories she left behind.
