The township of Umlazi remains one of the most iconic and popular parts of Kwa-Zulu Natal. This vibrant and infrastructural developing township has produced numerous of our well-respected celebrities in South Africa.
Like most townships or hoods in the world, Umlazi is plagued with high levels of crime and other various social ills that have surely discouraged most of our people, especially the youth. Inspiration comes in various forms for different people, including fame acquired in pop culture.
Most of our celebrities are not fully cognizant of the power and influence that they possess over ordinary citizens in this world. Therefore when a toxic environment seems to be too much of a challenge for some people who lead hopeless lives, they tend to yearn for good role models who will somehow serve as a reminder to them – that they too could come out of whatever crippling circumstances, however they don’t necessarily have to carve out a career in the world of the Arts but the inspiration seed has been firmly planted in their minds.
The selected batch of the below celebrities have certainly spun the light on Umlazi. They have proved that excellence and gems can come out from any township, well in this regard, Umlazi.
Linda Mtoba has definitely done her part in representing Umlazi. This gorgeous actress grew up at BB section and was raised by her mother, Celiwe together with her little brother.
Okmalumkoolkat's loyal fans know how much he reps the township of Umlazi. The hip hop superstar has shown absolute pride, with an entire album once dedicated to the township titled, Mlazi Milano, which was released in 2016. Even though Okmalumkoolkat does not live there anymore, he still looks to the township for inspiration.
The mesmerising voice of Brenda Mntambo was fine tuned at this very township. The sounds of music always surrounded Brenda as a child, whilst living with her grandparents. Brenda is surely doing the most with her incomparable talent in the world of music.
Trevor Gumbi is another gem that hails from the township of Umlazi, D section. This multifaceted entertainer has successfully dabbled in various mediums including, acting, directing, writing and voice overs. His work as served as an inspiration to the people of Umlazi.
Mampintsha remains a firm source of inspiration for the masses of Umlazi. His followers have since supported him from his days on the now disbanded kwaito group, Big Nuz. Say what you want but Mpintsho stays representing.
All of this fabulousness can be found in Umlazi. We know him as GC from hit soapie, Uzalo on SABC 1 but the people of Umlazi simply know him as Khaya Dladla from BB section. In an interview with BONA Magazine, he once said:'As a gay boy, I enjoyed growing up in my township because I had a happy childhood that was safe from harassment and criminals".
Baby Cele grew up at C section, Umlazi. She has been in the entertainment industry for a long time, therefore witnessing her star power still beaming gives hope and encouragement to the masses out there.
Of course the vibrancy of Umlazi has rubbed off on kwaito artist, Tipcee. This girl has her game on a total hundred. We love her and her township upbringing has helped her not to lose touch with reality as she is a superstar now.
This talented gospel musician is way more than just a PK(Pastor's kid) from Umlazi, Khaya Mthethwa is an award-winning musician that has transcended his abilities by borrowing his musical talents to outside of his father's church, also in Umlazi.
These celebrities are truly the beaming light from Umlazi.
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Main Image Credit:Instagram/@lindamtoba