“I Earned Less Than R10,000 for Sarafina!” – Khanyo Maphumulo Speaks Out on Industry Exploitation

Khanyo Maphumulo, a name etched into South African cultural history, has opened up about a heartbreaking chapter of her past — revealing that she earned less than R10,000 for her work on the globally celebrated film Sarafina! Despite her significant contributions, she was left without royalties, recognition, or a contract.

At just 17 years old, Khanyo played a pivotal role in shaping Sarafina!’s powerful musical foundation. She co-wrote iconic songs like Freedom Is Coming Tomorrow and The Lord’s Prayer, anthems that not only energized the film but also became symbols of resistance during apartheid. Yet behind the scenes, the teenager who helped give voice to a movement was being exploited.

“I never signed a contract. I didn’t understand the business side of things. I was just a child with a voice,” Khanyo recently revealed in a candid interview. “All I received was less than R10,000 — and that was it.”

The film, released in 1992 and starring Leleti Khumalo and Whoopi Goldberg, became an international success. It showcased South African talent to the world and remains a cornerstone of the country’s cinematic legacy. But for Khanyo, the experience is a painful reminder of how the entertainment industry can fail its youngest and most vulnerable artists.

Her story is far from unique. Across generations and geographies, young talents have often been exploited due to their lack of legal knowledge and the absence of strong representation. Without proper contracts, royalties, or long-term agreements, many contribute to timeless works but walk away with little or nothing.

In Khanyo’s case, the oversight—or intentional neglect—left her without the financial benefits or recognition she deserved. While the music she co-created still resonates decades later, her voice is now also a symbol of lost opportunities and systemic failures in the industry.

“I was used and forgotten,” she says. “No one came back to check on me, to ensure I was okay or that I had a future from the work I did. It felt like I was only valuable for that moment.”

This revelation has reignited conversation about how the South African entertainment industry protects—or fails to protect—its young talents. Many are now asking: How many Khanyos are out there, overlooked and underpaid? What structures exist to ensure that the next generation of artists doesn’t suffer the same fate?

Khanyo’s story serves as a wake-up call. It highlights the urgent need for industry reform, especially when it comes to ensuring proper legal safeguards, financial literacy, and mentorship for young creatives. As the entertainment world continues to celebrate Sarafina! and its legacy, it must also reckon with the injustices that occurred behind the scenes.

Today, Khanyo Maphumulo’s voice continues to echo—not only through the powerful songs she helped create but also through her truth. It’s a call for accountability, fairness, and long-overdue recognition.