Younger Than She Looks: Actress Velile Makhoba’s Age Stuns Mzansi

When it comes to talent and on-screen charisma, Velile Makhoba has truly made her mark as Gugulethu in the hit telenovela Gomora. If you haven’t heard of her, you might be shocked to learn that this gifted actress is only 23 years old! Yep, you read that right—she was born in 2001 in Mayville, Durban, and her age is a hot topic among fans who can’t believe how young she is compared to the mature and complex role she portrays.

The Character of Gugulethu

Gugulethu, often referred to as Gugu, is the daughter of the late Mbongeni Ndaba, a character who had a tumultuous life that reflects themes of family and betrayal. Gugu’s entrance onto the scene was nothing short of dramatic; she crashed the wedding of Phumlani and Thati, dramatically accusing Thati of stealing from her father—which set the stage for her captivating story arc.

Raised in the village by her uncle Phumlani and grandparents, Gugu’s character showcases deep-seated emotions of abandonment, love, and the quest for belonging after Phumlani moved to Gomora. The complex dynamics of her relationships unfold brilliantly on screen, capturing the hearts of viewers. Even after Phumlani’s passing, Gugu’s journey continues, as she navigates her new home with MaSonto while contending with her grandmother MaChonco’s attempts to take her back to the Eastern Cape.

A Rising Star

What makes Velile Makhoba’s portrayal of Gugu even more impressive is that she has managed to convey such depth and maturity despite her young age. She’s still new in the entertainment industry, but her acting chops have already turned heads and earned her a loyal fan base. Accolades aside, Velile has been carving out a unique space for herself since childhood.

Her love for traditional dancing began in primary school at Cato Crest, where she embraced Zulu dance and Umshado. That early passion blossomed into aspirations of owning her own dance production company one day—an ambition that speaks volumes about her commitment to her craft and her culture.

In 2019, she participated in the dance group Izintuthwane, performing at the prestigious Nedbank Final Cup at Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban. It was a significant milestone that showcased her talent on a prominent stage and allowed her to gain the recognition she deserves.

The Future Looks Bright

Despite the recent cancellation of Gomora, Velile is not slowing down. Her experience on the show has opened many doors, and she’s also starred in The Black Door—another project that promises to showcase her unique talents. As she continues to grow in her career, acting and dancing, there’s no doubt that we’re witnessing the rise of an exceptionally talented young woman.

So whether you’re a long-time fan of Gomora or just learning about Velile Makhoba, it’s clear that this actress has a bright future ahead. With her incredible acting skills and a passion for dance, she is definitely one to watch in the years to come! Mzansi has a new gem, and we can’t wait to see what she does next!