Leleti Khumalo received an International award

South African actress Leleti Khumalo was recently honored with the Golden Elephant Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2nd annual Golden Elephant Awards. The ceremony was hosted by Word of Mouth Pictures and the Duma Ndlovu Academy at the iconic Market Theatre in Johannesburg.

This prestigious award celebrates artists who have made a lasting and remarkable contribution to theatre, television, and film—both locally and internationally. Leleti now joins a distinguished group of honorees, including the legendary John Kani, who was the first to receive this recognition.

In her heartfelt Instagram post, Leleti expressed deep gratitude, saying she was proud to be celebrated “where it all started.” She also thanked the women who came before her and congratulated fellow honoree Thembi Mtshali-Jones, who was also recognized.

🔹 Who is Leleti Khumalo?

• Born on March 30, 1970, in KwaMashu, near Durban.

• Rose to fame with her role in the stage play Sarafina!—later adapted into a film—which earned her a Tony Award nomination and an NAACP Image Award nod.

• Starred in powerful international films such as Hotel Rwanda, Yesterday, and Invictus.

• A TV favorite for roles in top South African series like Uzalo, Imbewu, and Muvhango.

🌍 Why This Award Matters:

• It recognizes over 35 years of artistic excellence across multiple platforms: stage, film, and television.

• It reinforces her cultural impact as a global African icon.

• It celebrates her efforts in promoting authentic African female representation in media.