Elizabeth Serunye Biography
Elizabeth Serunye, born on March 12, 1971, is a renowned South African actress and gospel singer. She has graced the screens in numerous drama series, with her most notable role being Mapaseka Montsho in Moferefere Lenyalong.
Early Life and Education
Born and raised in Limpopo, South Africa, Elizabeth Serunye hails from Alexandra, a township located north of Johannesburg. She embarked on her acting training journey in 1986 in her hometown, a time when there were hardly any black people in the industry.
Career Beginnings
The onset of Serunye’s career was marked by turbulence. After losing some acting gigs, she sought alternative income sources, landing a job in retail. At the age of twenty-three, she made her first appearance on the screen in Dinnete Tsa Bophelo. Around the same time, she started a street vending business, selling cakes for R5 at the corner of her street to morning commuters.
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Acting Career
Serunye’s acting career took off when she secured roles in Generations in 2001. She played the character of Rose in the E.tv soap opera Rhythm City. In 2011, she joined the cast of Skeem Saam in its second season, portraying the strict and focused principal, Jacobeth Thobakgale. Her tenure on the show has spanned over eleven seasons, making her one of the longest-serving actors.
In addition to these roles, Serunye has appeared in productions like The Coconuts, Mzee Wa Two Six, and Ga Re Dumele. Her filmography includes films like Africa United (2010), Amandla (2022), and Skin (2008).
Musical Endeavors
Apart from acting, Serunye has ventured into music. She is a member of the gospel singing group, Exaltation Gospel Choir.
Role in Skeem Saam
In the drama series Skeem Saam, Serunye plays Principal Thobakgale. Her character faced numerous challenges as an administrator at Turfloop High School. After losing her job due to corruption and mismanagement allegations, she turned to drugs. However, with the support of her daughter, Elizabeth Thobakgale, she managed to reclaim her position.
Social Media Presence
Serunye maintains an active social media presence. On her profiles, she shares updates about her work, lifestyle, and interactions with other actors, providing followers with a sneak peek into the television shows and series she features in.
Television Roles
Serunye’s television roles span across various shows, including City Ses’la as Zinzile, Death of a Queen as Lekanago, Ga Re Dumele as Madipuo, Home Affairs as Auntie, Ke Ba Bolelletse as Mme Tshidi, Moferefere Lenyalong as Mapaseka Montsho, Mzee wa Two Six as Nokuthula, Rhythm City as Rose, Skeem Saam as Principal, Streets of Mangaung as Ma Annah, and The Coconuts as Joyce’s Friend 2.
Quick Facts
- Full Name: Elizabeth Serunye
- Date of Birth: March 12, 1971
- Place of Birth: Limpopo, South Africa
- Nationality: South African
- Education: Acting training
- Occupation: Actress, former teacher
- Popular role: Principal Thobakgale
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