Nelisiwe Faith Sibiya, born on 13 September 1992, is a South African actress, singer, and radio presenter. She is widely recognized for her lead role as Dr. Mbali Mthethwa in the e.tv medical drama Durban Gen and for playing Zamahlabo Ntanzi in the Mzansi Magic telenovela Ithonga. Her 2016 single “Mama Ka Bafana” became a viral hit and served as the theme song for the drama series Lockdown.
Profile Summary
| Full Name | Nelisiwe Faith Sibiya |
| Date of Birth | 13 September 1992 |
| Place of Birth | Johannesburg, South Africa |
| Nationality | South African |
| State of Origin | Gauteng |
| Partner | Mike Ndlangamandla (rumored) |
| Children | None |
| Occupations | Actress, singer, radio presenter |
| Net Worth | USD 1 million–5 million |
Early Life and Education
Nelisiwe was born in Johannesburg and raised mainly by her mother and sister after her father was tragically shot when she was eight years old. She and her sister faced abuse while living with relatives, prompting them to move for safety.
In 2015, she enrolled at Tshwane University of Technology to study Musical Studies, supported by a bursary for the last two years. Her mother passed away in 2016, shortly before Nelisiwe graduated.
Career
Her musical journey began in church choirs and classical choral training during her school years. Nelisiwe’s major breakthrough came in 2018 when her song “Mama Ka Bafana” was featured as the theme for Lockdown.
In 2020, she took on the lead role of Dr. Mbali Mthethwa in Durban Gen, winning the Zikomo Award for Best Actress in Africa in 2021.
She has since taken on notable roles such as Nompendulo in Umkhokha: The Curse, Sanda in Scandal!, and Zamahlabo Ntanzi in Ithonga.
Personal Life
Nelisiwe keeps her personal life private. She was previously engaged to Ayanda Ntanzi and is currently rumored to be in a relationship with fellow actor Mike Ndlangamandla. She has no children.
Nelisiwe Sibaya Net Worth
Her estimated net worth ranges from USD 1 million to 5 million, reflecting her success across acting, singing, and radio presenting.
Filmography
| Year | Production | Role |
|---|---|---|
| 2016 | Lockdown | Prisoner |
| 2020–2023 | Durban Gen | Dr. Mbali Mthethwa |
| 2023 | Umkhokha: The Curse | Nompendulo |
| 2024 | Scandal! | Sanda |
| 2025 | Ithonga | Zamahlabo Ntanzi |
Discography
- “Mama Ka Bafana” (2016) – Theme song for Lockdown
- Additional singles available on streaming platforms
Awards and Nominations
- Zikomo Award for Best Actress in Africa (2021) for Durban Gen
- Simon Sabela Award nomination for Best Actress (2025) for Ithonga
- Multiple accolades throughout her career
