It was an emotional moment for media personality Nonhle Thema as she recently paid tribute to her late mother, veteran actress Cynthia Shange, on what would have been her 77th birthday. Posting on her Instagram page, Nonhle celebrated not only her mother’s birthday but also the remarkable legacy she left behind. Reflecting on her life, she shared that Cynthia’s impact continues to be felt even after her passing, adding that she “finished her race strong” and left behind a legacy that will forever be celebrated. Cynthia Shange passed away on 20 April, 2026, following a short illness at a hospital in KwaZulu-Natal. She was known for her roles in soapies such as Muvhango, uDeliwe, and Shaka Zulu to name a few. Since her death, Nonhle has been met with an outpouring of love and support from fans and well-wishers, who have continued to comfort her during this difficult chapter. An old black-and-white photo of Nonhle Thema as a young girl with her late mother, Cynthia Shange. Picture: Instagram@NonhleThema ‘Thank you, Ma’ Sharing this moving message with her followers, Nonhle wrote: “Happy Heavenly Birthday to a Queen, my Mom ‘Cynthia Philisiwe Shange. She would be turning 77 on the 27th of the 7th month of the year, 7777 being the number of completion. She finished her race strong on earth and is forever in our hearts. Thank you Ma. Your Legacy lives on. You are loved you will forever be remembered. Royalty,” wrote Nonhle. HAVE YOU READ THIS ONE?: Who Heals A Broken Healer? Post navigation ‘Aw Kodwa Nkosi’: Mzansi Left Heartbroken as News of Seputla Sebogodi’s Passing Sparks Emotional Reactions Trying to Do It All? Carol Ofori Has Advice Every Woman Needs to Hear!