Fumani Nkateko Shilubana, born on March 22, 1980, in Shiluvana Village, Tzaneen, Limpopo, South Africa, is a distinguished figure in the entertainment industry. He is renowned for his roles in films such as Kalushi: The Story of Solomon Mahlangu, My Father’s War, and Zama Zama. Fumani is also the founder of FatherFigureZA and co-owner of Xiculu Multimedia, which specializes in producing Xitsonga content.
Profile Summary
| Full Name | Fumani Nkateko Shilubana |
| Date of Birth | March 22, 1980 |
| Place of Birth | Shiluvana Village, Tzaneen, Limpopo, South Africa |
| Nationality | South African |
| Partner | Boitumelo Mboweni |
| Occupations | Actor, Director, Producer, Casting Director |
| Labels | Various production companies |
| Net Worth | Approximately $1 million |
Early Life and Education
Born at Douglas Smith Hospital under challenging circumstances, Fumani overcame early speech difficulties through training in Speech and Drama.
His father, Clifford Shilubana, was a school headmaster, and his mother, Nsatimuni Mundhlovu—a Mozambican-South African—was a nurse. He is connected to the Nkuna royal family and has three siblings.
Fumani matriculated from Mathews Phosa College in 1998. Initially pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture at the University of Venda and later Industrial Engineering at Tshwane University of Technology, he eventually dropped out to follow his passion for modeling and acting.
Career
Fumani’s artistic journey began in 2000 when he entered a modeling competition at Tzaneen Mall. Although selected for international training in Italy, he shifted his focus to acting after discovering opportunities at the South African State Theatre.
His first paid acting role came through community theater projects promoting HIV awareness.
In 2002, Fumani joined the South African State Theatre’s Development Program (52 Seasons), where he performed in plays such as Julius Caesar and Relativity: Township Stories.
He gained widespread recognition for his television roles as Detective Dabula in Isidingo, Dr. Mokhethi in Generations, and Vukosi Moyo in Giyani: Land of Blood. His directorial debut came with the film Khomelela, which emphasized Xitsonga-language cinema.
Production Work
As co-owner of Xiculu Multimedia, Fumani has produced several notable projects, including the series Mafanato, the documentary Being Tsonga In SA, and the short film Nyambondzwani. His company also developed COVID-19 dashboards and podcasts that celebrate Tsonga culture.
Personal Life
Fumani is married to Boitumelo Mboweni and is a devoted father to three children: Vulani Pontia, Nganakati-Nsuku, and Fumani Nkateko Shilubana. His dedication to family values is reflected in his work with FatherFigureZA.
Funami Shilubana Net Worth
Fumani Shilubana’s net worth is estimated at $1 million. His income stems from acting roles, directing projects, production work, and entrepreneurial endeavors.
Filmography
| Year | Title | Role/Contribution |
|---|---|---|
| 2006–2008 | Hillside | Detective Nataniel |
| 2008–2009 | Generations | Dr. Mokhethi |
| 2012 | Zama Zama | Babylon |
| 2016 | Kalushi: The Story of Solomon Mahlangu | Lucas Mahlangu |
| 2016 | My Father’s War | Floyd |
| 2023 | Shaka iLembe | Nduku |
Awards and Nominations
- Naledi Theatre Awards (2005) – Nominated for Best Supporting Actor (Relativity: Township Stories).
- Mama Beka Community Award (2021) – Recognized for contributions to community development.
- Raising Legend Award (2024) – Honored by Hope Giver Foundation.
Fumani Shilubana continues to make significant contributions to South African arts and culture through his dedication to storytelling, cultural preservation, and community development.
