Rhodes University to award Honorary Doctorate to Leleti Khumalo for her iconic roles and decades of social activism.
By Bulelwa Hoala
South African award-winning actress Leleti Khumalo is set to be honoured with an Honorary Doctorate (LLD) from Rhodes University this Wednesday, 25 March 2026.
In a social media announcement on Monday, the Makhanda-based university congratulated the Sarafina! star, revealing she will receive a Doctor of Laws degree (LLD) (honoris causa) in recognition of her prolific work as an actress and social activist.
“We are beaming with pride as the iconic Leleti Khumalo prepares to receive her Honorary Doctorate (LLD) from Rhodes University this Wednesday,” the university stated.
“From the defiant spirit of Sarafina! to the poignant storytelling in Yesterday, Leleti has used her craft as a powerful tool for social change, confronting the realities of Apartheid and the HIV/AIDS epidemic. She doesn’t just act; she advocates.”
Reflecting on her journey, Khumalo told the university: “I just want to tell stories that are going to change people’s lives. I don’t want to just be an actress. I want to be an actress who is going to make a difference.”
A Legacy of Excellence
Born in 1970 in KwaMashu, Durban, Khumalo was discovered at age 15 by the late Mbongeni Ngema and cast as the lead in the musical Sarafina!. By 1992, she starred in the film adaptation of the musical alongside global icons Whoopi Goldberg and John Kani.
She also delivered a career-defining performance in Yesterday, which made history in 2005 as an Oscar nominee for Best Foreign Language Film. Her other notable film credits include Don’t Give Up, Invictus, and Hotel Rwanda.
Queen of the Small Screen
Beyond film, Khumalo has enjoyed a massive career in South African television, becoming a household staple in several popular soapies and telenovelas. Her most iconic roles include:
- Generations: As the sophisticated Busi Dlomo.
- Uzalo: As the beloved matriarch MaNzuza.
- Imbewu: The Seed: As MaZulu (where she also served as Executive Producer).
- Muvhango: As the formidable Dr. Ximba.
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The post From Sarafina to Dr. Khumalo: Rhodes University to honour Leleti Khumalo with Honorary Doctorate appeared first on KAYA 959.
