Born and raised in Umlazi: 9 celebs are making their hometown proud
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When you hear about Umlazi, you don’t often think about it as the home of the rich and famous, yet there are a number of successful celebs who have strong roots in the town.
Many stars don’t realized they influence they have over the general public, but some are using their voices to change the way the rest of Mzansi sees the place that they call home.
Briefly.co.za compiled a list of 9 celebrities who were born in the township but have gone on to have successful careers in the entertainment industry.
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1. Linda Mtoba
The actress was raised by her mother in the township and spent most of her life there before she started her career in acting.
2. Okmalumkoolkat
The hip hop artist proudly represents Umlazi by using the town and its people as inspiration for his music. Okmalumkoolkat even devoted an entire album to his hometown.
3. Brenda Mntambo
Raised by her grandparents, the songstress thanks her childhood in Umlazi for helping her to successfully perfect her singing skills.
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4. Trevor Gumbi
Trevor is idolized amongst South Africans for his incredible talented, but he is an even bigger inspiration to the residents of Umlazi who wish to follow in his footsteps.
5. Mampintsha
While Big Nuz is no more, Mampintsha is still worshipped by the local community and according to ZAlebs, he is still someone that locals look up to.
6. Khaya Dladla
Better known as GC after his character on ‘Uzalo’, Khaya Dladla also hailed from Umlazi. The actor has fond memories of his childhood and remembered how safe he felt when he was growing up, even after he came out the closet.
READ ALSO: Charlize Theron on her upbringing: My mom taught me to be brave
7. Baby Cele
The veteran actress has had an incredibly successful career, but she is still proud of her connections to Umlazi.
8. Tipcee
Kwaito artist Tipcee credits her childhood in Umlazi for keeping her grounded in such a cutthroat industry and for also inspiring her music.
9. Khaya Mthethwa
Gospel singer-turned-pastor Khaya Mthethwa was also born and raised in the town before his music career took off. Now he has taken over his father’s church and he has reconnected with his Umlazi roots.
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Source: Briefly News
