Actress Bahumi Mhlongo, the daughter of celebrity choreographer Somizi, is no stranger to the limelight, but her journey has been anything but easy.
As the daughter of renowned South African entertainers Palesa Madisakwane and Somizi Mhlongo, she has had to navigate the complexities of being born into fame while striving to build a career.
During an episode of Engineer Your Life with Lungelo KM, Bahumi opened up about her experiences, from dealing with public perception to finding solace in her faith.
Growing up surrounded by the entertainment industry, Bahumi became passionate about performing at a young age. Despite receiving a scholarship to the New York Film Academy, she first studied for a Bachelor of Commerce, majoring in Law prior to enrolling at Pro Arte Alphen Park to study dramatic arts and filmmaking.
Eventually, she returned to storytelling, appearing on TV shows, commercials, and playing a young Lebo Mathosa in Dream: The Lebo Mathosa Story. Despite her achievements, she often faces the challenge of proving that her success is based on merit rather than nepotism.
Growing up, Bahumi was surrounded by storytelling. Some of her earliest memories involve watching her actress grandmother, Mary Twala, rehearse scripts, an experience that cemented her love for acting.
“It’s not just my parents; my whole family is in this industry, whether in front of the camera or behind the scenes,” she reflects.
Even though she was born into entertainment, carving out her place in it has been anything but easy.
The weight of her surname comes with expectations, assumptions, and an ever-present need to prove herself.
Many believe doors have simply opened for her, dismissing the years of work, auditions, and rejections that have shaped her journey.
“People shouldn’t feel entitled to other people’s favour. You don’t know why someone was chosen over another,” she says.
Ironically, she admits there were times she wished nepotism had worked in her favour, but it never did.
Determined to build a career on her terms, Bahumi has been intentional about not relying on her parents for opportunities. The fear of being labelled a ‘no baby’ kept her from asking for help, yet the label found her anyway.
“There were many times I could have reached out to my parents, but I didn’t, and still, people assume everything was handed to me.”
Like any aspiring actress, she has faced rejection more than most expect. Despite her family's industry ties, her parents have been wary of her choice to follow in their footsteps, knowing firsthand the struggles that come with it.
“They’ve experienced the waiting, the rejection, the abuse. There are avenues they wish they hadn’t taken, and I want to learn from their mistakes,” she admits.
One of the most defining moments in her career came during a holiday conversation with her father. Seeking his advice, she was taken aback by his response.
“I asked him for guidance, and he said, ‘No, don’t do that.’ When I asked why, he looked at me and said, ‘No, don’t be like me.’ He said it with such conviction, and I felt the weight of it.”
That moment reaffirmed her belief that while she values her parents’ experiences, she must forge her path even if it means facing greater challenges along the way.
As someone who has seen both the glamorous and toxic sides of the industry, Bahumi wishes more people were exposed to its realities.
"Hold your own. Stay in your lane in a way that doesn’t limit you. Write your path. If you see something that devalues what you stand for, don’t take that route."
These words serve as a reminder that while legacy can open doors, it is ultimately hard work, resilience, and staying true to oneself that determine success.
Many chase quick results, often overlooking the importance of character, but she understands the dangers of desperation.
Her father’s words serve as a constant reminder—"never trade dignity, relationships, or values for an opportunity” she says. His pride in her stems from her unwavering commitment to forging her own pace and for not leeching off what they built.”
IOL