Zimbabwe-born stars who have shone brightly in South Africa

Discover five Zimbabwe-born stars excelling in South Africa, from music legend Oskido to rugby icon Tendai Mtawarira…

Zimbabwe-born celebrities Oskido and LuthuliDlamini.

Zimbabwean-born celebrities Oskido and LuthuliDlamini. Images via Facebook @Oskido and Instagram @luthulidlamini

Zimbabwe has produced a wealth of talent that has made significant strides across various industries in South Africa.

From music and sports to acting, Zimbabwe stars have left an indelible mark on South Africa’s cultural and entertainment landscape. Here are five prominent male Zimbabwe-born figures who have achieved remarkable success in South Africa.

Oscar ‘Oskido‘ Mdlongwa

Profession: DJ, Producer, Entrepreneur

Oskido, a legendary name in South Africa’s music industry, was born in Zimbabwe and moved to South Africa, where he built his illustrious career. He is a pioneer in the house and kwaito music genres and the co-founder of Kalawa Jazmee Records, a label that has launched the careers of numerous South African artists.

Oskido’s contributions to the music industry have earned him immense respect and recognition as a cultural icon. As reported by The Citizen, reflecting on his career, veteran producer and entrepreneur Oscar “Oskido” Mdlongwa shared that founding his record label, Kalawa Jazmee, stands out as the pinnacle of his extensive career.

Tendai ‘The Beast’ Mtawarira

Profession: Rugby Player

Tendai Mtawarira, affectionately known as “The Beast,” is a former Springbok rugby player who played a crucial role in South Africa’s 2019 Rugby World Cup victory. Born in Zimbabwe, Mtawarira moved to South Africa and became one of the most celebrated props in rugby history. His incredible strength, skill, and dedication on the field have cemented his legacy as a national hero in South Africa and an inspiration for athletes across the continent.

Chrispen Nyathi

Profession: Actor

Chrispen Nyathi is a rising star in South Africa’s entertainment industry. Born in Zimbabwe, he gained widespread recognition for his role as Pastor Charleston in the hit TV series DiepCity. His outstanding performance earned him the Viewers’ Choice Best Actor Award at the 2021 Royalty Soapie Awards, making him one of the most promising talents in South African television today.

Tongayi Chirisa

Profession: Actor

Tongayi Chirisa is a versatile actor who has found success both in South Africa and internationally. Known for his roles in Mr. Bones 2 and Cry of the Beloved Country, Chirisa’s talent has also taken him to Hollywood, where he starred in productions such as Another Life and The Jim Gaffigan Show. His ability to seamlessly navigate between local and international projects has solidified his reputation as a world-class performer.

Luthuli Dlamini

Profession: Actor

Luthuli Dlamini is a seasoned actor whose career in South Africa spans decades. Born in Zimbabwe, Dlamini is best known for his iconic role as Stan Nyathi in the popular soap opera Scandal!. He has also starred in other major productions such as Generations and Jacob’s Cross. With his captivating performances and commanding presence, Dlamini remains a beloved figure in South African television.