Gomora actress Zodwa already had 5 children at the age of 21, & had her first child at the age of 14. See what else here>
Gomora Star Zodwa Shares Her Inspiring Journey: From Mother of Five at 21 to TV Success
Sana Mchunu, widely recognized for her role as Zodwa in the hit soap opera Gomora, has a remarkable life story that serves as an inspiration to many. In a candid interview on Jozi FM, Sana opened up about her challenging past, including becoming a mother at a young age, navigating the ups and downs of marriage, and ultimately finding success in the entertainment industry.
Sana’s journey began when she had her first child at just 14 years old. By the age of 21, she was already a mother of five, which brought with it a host of challenges. In her interview, she emphasized the importance of education and personal growth, particularly for women in troubled marriages.
“If your relationship no longer serves your well-being, consider leaving,” she advised, sharing her wisdom with listeners who may find themselves in similar situations.
Reflecting on her own life, Sana expressed gratitude for the end of her marriage, saying, “I am grateful that it ended; else I would not be here today.” This pivotal moment allowed her to recognize the need to return to school and build a life independent of her spouse, even if it meant leaving her children in their father’s care—a difficult choice that weighed heavily on her heart.
While discussing her experiences, Sana revealed that she is now a mother of seven children but has not completed her education. “I want to share my story to inspire young women to pursue education and empower themselves,” she stated. “Today, I am a mother of seven children, and I haven’t even obtained my high school diploma. At 21, I was already a mother of five.”
Sana’s entry into the entertainment industry came unexpectedly when a friend—a singer—invited her to accompany her to auditions. On a whim, Sana decided to try out for a role at Kalawa Jazmee, leading to her eventual casting in the industry.
She credits her friend, Winnie Khumalo, for guiding her through auditions and encouraging her to pursue acting. “Winnie played a vital role in my career,” Sana acknowledged, expressing gratitude for the support that helped her land significant roles in popular telenovelas like Generations and The Queen.
In the interview, Sana also spoke about the societal judgment she faced after becoming a mother at such a young age. Drawing parallels between her life and that of her on-screen character Zodwa, she explained how these experiences shaped her ability to deliver powerful performances. Zodwa’s character was originally intended to be temporary, described as “an irresponsible and intoxicated woman whose child would be taken away.”
However, Sana’s dedication and talent ensured that she made the role her own, ultimately keeping Zodwa a beloved fixture on viewers’ screens. “My character was supposed to be temporary, but I made sure that I shined,” she said proudly.
Through her journey, Sana Mchunu exemplifies resilience and determination, inspiring countless women to pursue their dreams and prioritize their personal growth. Her story is a powerful reminder that even in the face of adversity, it is possible to rise above and achieve success. As she continues to shine on-screen, Sana remains committed to sharing her experiences to empower others, proving that one’s past does not define their future.
