Shalate Sekhabi
Rising star of South African television and Netflix's latest leading lady.
Shalate Sekhabi, born Kgabang Sekhabi, is one of South Africa's most exciting young talents. Best known for her breakout role as Shoki Zwide in e.tv's fashion telenovela House of Zwide, she has quickly established herself as a versatile actress, singer, and model.
In 2025, her career reached new heights with her Netflix debut in the young-adult series Go! and her signing to African Creative Agency - the same agency that represents Grammy-winning artist Tyla.
Early Life & Family
Shalate was born on 27 July 2000 in Mafikeng, North West Province, into an entertainment industry family. Her father, Aubrey Sekhabi, is an award-winning playwright, director, and the artistic director of the South African State Theatre. He is also co-founder and president of GBR Productions.
Her mother, Nontutuzelo Sekhabi, is a former actress who now works for the Department of Arts and Culture. Growing up surrounded by theatre and creativity, it was perhaps inevitable that Shalate would follow a similar path.
She attended Crawford International College, graduating in 2018, before enrolling at the University of the Witwatersrand to study Film and Television Production.
Career Timeline
Acting Debut
Started acting career in short films including 'Making a Kill' and 'A Cup of Sugar'
The River
Made TV debut playing Millicent on 1Magic drama series The River (Season 3)
House of Zwide
Breakout role as Shoki Zwide on e.tv's popular fashion telenovela, becoming a household name
Netflix Debut
Starred as Nthabi in Netflix young-adult series 'Go!' alongside Thandolwethu Zondi
Major Agency Signing
Joined African Creative Agency, which also represents Grammy-winner Tyla
House of Zwide: The Role That Made Her Famous
Shalate's portrayal of Shoki Zwide in e.tv's House of Zwide turned her into a household name. The fashion telenovela, which premiered in 2021, follows the Zwide family's fashion empire and the drama surrounding it.
Her character Shoki became a fan favourite, showcasing Shalate's range as an actress. After four successful seasons, she departed the show in July 2024, leaving fans emotional but excited for her next chapter.
Show Details
- Show House of Zwide
- Character Shoki Zwide
- Channel e.tv
- Years 2021-2024
Filmography
| Title | Role | Platform |
|---|---|---|
| Go! | Nthabi | Netflix |
| House of Zwide | Shoki Zwide | e.tv |
| The River | Millicent | 1Magic |
| Making a Kill | Various | Short Film |
| A Cup of Sugar | Various | Short Film |
Netflix Breakthrough: Go!
In 2025, Shalate made her international streaming debut in Netflix's young-adult series Go!, playing the character Nthabi. The series features an ensemble cast including Thandolwethu Zondi, Wonder Ndlovu, and Ntobeko Sishi.
This Netflix appearance marks a significant step in her career, exposing her talent to a global audience and cementing her status as one of South Africa's most promising young actresses.
Key Facts About Shalate Sekhabi
Multi-talented artist: actress, singer, songwriter, and model
Signed with African Creative Agency (same as Grammy-winner Tyla)
Studied Film & TV Production at Wits University
Daughter of acclaimed playwright Aubrey Sekhabi
Started acting at just 14 years old in short films
Featured by Sowetan S Mag as a "Next-gen Leading Lady"
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Shalate Sekhabi's real name?
Her real name is Kgabang Sekhabi. Shalate is her stage name.
How old is Shalate Sekhabi?
Shalate was born on 27 July 2000, making her 24 years old in 2025.
Why did Shalate leave House of Zwide?
Shalate's character Shoki was written out of House of Zwide in July 2024. She has since moved on to other projects including Netflix's Go! series.
Who are Shalate Sekhabi's parents?
Her father is Aubrey Sekhabi, an award-winning playwright and director. Her mother is Nontutuzelo Sekhabi, a former actress.
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