Elizabeth Serunye
South African actress and gospel singer
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Elizabeth Serunye (born 12 March 1971) is a South African actress, gospel singer, and motivational speaker. She is known for her iconic role as the strict, no-nonsense Principal Jacobeth Thobakgale[1] on the popular SABC 1 soap opera Skeem Saam.[2] Serunye is regarded as one of the longest-serving and most recognised cast members on the series.[3]
Elizabeth Serunye | |
|---|---|
| |
| Born | March 12, 1971 South Africa |
| Occupations | Actress, gospel singer, motivational speaker |
| Years active | 2000s–present |
| Known for | Principal Jacobeth Thobakgale in Skeem Saam |
| Children | 2 |
| Awards | SAFTA Award for Best Actress in a TV Soap (2024) |
She has also appeared in several South African television dramas, soap operas, and films, including Moferefere Lenyalong,[4] Generations, Yizo Yizo, Rhythm City, and City Ses'la. In 2024, she won the SAFTA Award for Best Actress in a TV Soap for her role in Skeem Saam.
Early life
Elizabeth Serunye was born on 12 March 1971 in Limpopo, South Africa and is of Pedi descent. Before becoming a successful actress, she worked as a roadside street food vendor in Alexandra,[5] where she sold homemade buns and cakes to support her family and raise her two sons as a single parent.[6][7]
Career
Acting
Serunye began building her acting career through television and theatre productions. She became widely known for portraying Mapaseka Montsho in the SABC 2 comedy-drama series Moferefere Lenyalong, where she appeared from 2008 to 2012.
In 2013, she joined the cast of Skeem Saam as Principal Jacobeth Thobakgale. Her portrayal of the strict and outspoken school principal became one of the show's most popular characters.
Serunye has featured in films including:
Music
Apart from acting, Serunye is also involved in gospel music. She performs with the Exaltation Gospel Choir and has spoken publicly about her passion for singing and ministry.
Motivational speaking
Serunye is also known as a motivational speaker and community mentor. She frequently shares her life story and career journey at schools, churches, and youth events, encouraging young people to persevere through hardship and rejection.[10]
Awards and nominations
| Year | Award | Category | Work | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | South African Film and Television Awards | Best Actress in a TV Soap[11] | Skeem Saam | Won |
Filmography
Television
| Year | Title | Role | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2008–2012 | Moferefere Lenyalong | Mapaseka Montsho | Supporting role |
| 2013–present | Skeem Saam | Principal Jacobeth Thobakgale[12] | Main role |
| Unknown | Generations | — | Guest role |
| Unknown | Yizo Yizo | — | Guest role |
| Unknown | Rhythm City | Rose | Supporting role |
| Unknown | City Ses'la | Zinzile | Supporting role |
Film[13]
| Year | Title | Role | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2008 | Skin | — | Film |
| 2010 | Africa United | — | Film |
| 2022 | Amandla | — | Film |