Nonhle Thema and her late mother Cynthia ShangeNonhle Thema and her late mother Cynthia Shange. Picture: Instagram@NonhleThema

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
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?

Avatar photo

By Asanda Mbayimbayi

Asanda Mbayimbayi is an award-winning Lifestyle & Entertainment News Editor and Journalist celebrated for her dynamic voice in digital lifestyle, entertainment, and hard news journalism. Honoured with the Galliova People’s Hero 2025 Award for her authentic storytelling and powerful connection with audiences, she continues to redefine journalism with purpose, empathy, and impact. With an instinct for uncovering stories that resonate and a deep understanding of audience engagement, Asanda brings clarity, depth, and heart to every piece she crafts. Beyond the newsroom, she wears many hats — Researcher, Qualified Bible Teacher, Content Creator, Producer, Motivational Speaker, and Book Editor to name a few — using her creative and spiritual insight to inspire transformation through words. Whether leading editorial teams, producing meaningful content, or motivating audiences, Asanda stands as a storyteller driven by faith, purpose, and the power of narrative to connect and inspire.