Sonia Mbele, a multi-talented South African, is known for her work as an actress, model, TV producer, and entrepreneur. She made history by producing the inaugural Real Housewives series in Africa and currently holds the role of executive producer for Real Housewives of Johannesburg.
Profile Summary
| Full Name: | Sonia Nomthandazo Mbele |
| Date Of Birth: | December 11, 1976 |
| Place Of Birth: | Natalspruit, South Africa |
| Nationality: | South African |
| Children: | 4 |
| Occupation(s): | Actress, Writer, Director |
| Net Worth: | $300,000 – $800,000 |
Spouse Leslie Sedibe
Early Life
Born in December 11, 1976 in Natalspruit, South Africa, Sonia Mbele is a versatile actress, accomplished model, talented TV producer, and a successful entrepreneur.
Career
Sonia Mbele made history in the world of reality television by spearheading the production of the first-ever Real Housewives franchise in Africa—a groundbreaking achievement that resonated with audiences across the continent.
Currently, Mbele holds the prestigious role of executive producer for the popular reality TV series, Real Housewives of Johannesburg, cementing her position as a prominent figure in the entertainment industry.
In 1998, Sonia Mbele kickstarted her acting career with a prominent role in the SABC 2 drama series “Phamokate.” Her talent did not go unnoticed, earning her the FNB Vita Award for Most Promising New Actress in 1999.
A pivotal moment came in 2003 when Mbele joined the cast of the popular SABC 1 soap series “Generations,” portraying the character of Ntombi Khumalo until 2011.
This role catapulted her to stardom in South Africa, culminating in her victory at the South African Film and Television Awards in 2009, where she secured the Golden Horn Award for Best Actress in a TV Soap.
Breaking barriers, Mbele became the first black celebrity to represent Dark & Lovely, Lux, and Sun-Silk brands in South Africa, solidifying her status as a trendsetter in the industry.
Demonstrating her innovation and creativity, Mbele made history in 2018 by introducing the first African edition of The Real Housewives franchise with the debut of “Real Housewives of Johannesburg” under her production company Sonia Mbele Films.
Building on this success, she unveiled another captivating reality television series titled “Pastor’s Wives” for HONEY TV in 2021, showcasing her versatility as a producer and entrepreneur in the entertainment landscape.
Personal Life
In 2006, Sonia Mbele exchanged vows with Leslie Sedibe after a period of courtship.
Unfortunately, their marital bliss was short-lived as they parted ways in 2014. Reflecting on the divorce, Sonia described it as one of the most challenging experiences of her life.
Sonia Mbele, a mother of four, has two children with her former husband, Leslie Sedibe, and the other two from different fathers.
During an interview with Zimoja in 2023, the accomplished actress and businesswoman revealed that following weeks of fatigue, she was diagnosed with chronic anemia. Currently, she is undergoing treatment to address her iron deficiency.
Sonia Mbele Net Worth
Sonia Mbele has amassed a substantial net worth estimated to be anywhere from $1 million to $5 million.
This financial success is a testament to her thriving career as an actress, producer, and entrepreneur within the vibrant South African entertainment industry.
Awards And Nominations
Sonia Mbele has received several notable awards throughout her career:
- FNB Vita Award: Most Promising New Actress (1998/1999)
- Golden Horn Award: Best Actress in a TV Soap at the South African Film and Television Awards (2009)
- SABC Crown Gospel Music Awards: Presenter (specific years not detailed)
- National Film and TV Awards (2023)
These accolades highlight her significant contributions to the South African entertainment industry.
Filmography
Filmography
- 2001: Mr Bones – Role: Thandie
- 2003: God Is African
- 2017: Meet the Radebes – Role: Sam (Script writer, producer)
- 2019: Blessers – Role: Michelle Zulu
Television
- 1998: Phamokate – SABC 2
- 2001: Soul City – Role: Dr. Ayanda Ngubane (Season 5 and 6)
- 2003-2011: Generations (South African TV series) – Role: Ntombi Khumalo (Season 1 – 13, SABC 1)
- 2003: Yizo Yizo – Role: Zakes’ Girlfriend
- 2003: Soul Buddyz – Role: Ayanda (Season 2)
- 2004: Zero Tolerance – Role: Rosie (Season 1)
- 2015: Gold Diggers – Role: Thuli (Season 1)
- 2016: The Alliance – Role: Lydia (Season 1)
- 2016: Keeping Score – Role: Mmamosa Letsie (Season 1)
- 2016: Greed & Desire – Role: Thlabi (Season 1)
- 2017: Soap on a Rope – Role: Tuki Ramphele (Season 1)
- 2017: iNumber Number – Role: Philane (Season 1)
- 2018: Imposter – Role: Big Daddy (Season 2)
- 2020: Family Secrets – Role: Cleopatra Mokwena (Season 1)
- 2021: DiepCity – Role: Zola (Season 1)
- 2022: Blood & Water (South African TV series) – Role: Lisbeth Molapo (Season 3)