Manaka Ranaka Emotionally Celebrates Her Late Daughter’s Graduation

Generations: The Legacy star Manaka Ranaka touched the hearts of many South Africans after sharing an emotional moment from her late daughter Katlego’s graduation. The actress took to social media to honour her daughter’s achievement, despite her heartbreaking absence.

In a deeply moving video, Manaka is seen crying as she receives her daughter’s qualification on her behalf. The actress captioned the clip with heartfelt words that perfectly captured the mix of pain and pride she felt:

“Soundtrack of my life. Bongeziwe Mabandla ~ Wena. Happy Friday. As I prepare for my late daughter’s graduation tomorrow.”

On the day of the graduation, she proudly wrote, “Mother of a graduate. So proud of you, my angel. You did well. A whole qualified animal farmer.”

The touching post drew a flood of love and support from fans and fellow celebrities. Actress Dawn Thandeka King sent comforting words, saying, “Sending lots of love and hugs sthandwa sami.” Meanwhile, actress Lerato Mvelase commented, “Congratulations mama.”

Fans also shared in her emotions. One user, @pnkathato, wrote, “Yoh! I’m feeling all the feels, this is incredibly emotional. Great job, Mama, you kept her spirit alive. Congratulations!”

Manaka’s journey of grief and remembrance has resonated with many since she lost Katlego earlier this year. In January 2025, she opened up about her daughter’s passion for animals and her dreams of working in agriculture.

“Her love of animals is what made me lead her to studying agriculture. I’ve always had a dream to have a farm, and she loved animals. If she’d passed really well in matric, she would’ve studied to be a veterinarian,” Manaka shared at the time.

Katlego had been studying Animal Production at the Ekurhuleni Agricultural College, pursuing a future that reflected her caring nature and love for all living creatures.

Though the pain of her absence remains, Manaka continues to honour her daughter’s dreams and achievements with grace and strength