By Gift Sebiloane
Brenda Ngxoli has bravely come forward with allegations of long-term abuse at the hands of her family, sparking a wave of support, outrage, and a remarkable display of generosity on social media.
SAFTA award-winning South African actress Brenda Ngxoli, known for her powerful performances in shows like ‘Home Affairs‘ and ‘Rockville‘ revealed in a series of social media posts that she has endured both verbal and physical abuse from family members. This revelation comes after a period of homelessness for the actress, adding another layer of complexity to her already difficult situation.
The actress, who welcomed her daughter Sky in 2022, stated that her decision to speak out was driven by her desire to protect her child and break the cycle of abuse. She expressed her frustration with the expectation that she should remain silent to preserve the family’s image, questioning why the burden of resolving the situation falls on the victim.
Ngxoli’s courageous decision to speak her truth has resonated with many, with fans and fellow actors expressing their support and offering advice. Amid an outpouring display of support on X (formerly Twitter), many have encouraged her to distance herself from her family to protect her daughter and prioritize her own well-being.
Adding to this wave of support, TikTok influencer Mandisi Tshingana has launched a social media campaign to raise funds for Ngxoli during this challenging time. The campaign has garnered significant attention, with donations nearing R100,000.
On Monday, the actress expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the public for their overwhelming support, as more financial contributions continuie to come in. “Thank you people of the South and beyond. I can’t just keep quiet…. but thank you very much for your financial gifts of support,” she shared — as shown in the X post below.
She also thanked South Africans for their emotional support following the circulation of a video showing a verbal altercation between her and her mother.
The power of speaking up against abuse
Ngxoli’s story serves as a reminder that abuse can occur within any family, regardless of social status or public image. Her bravery in speaking out has not only shed light on her personal struggle but has also provided strength and inspiration to others who may be experiencing similar situations.
It remains to be seen how this saga will unfold, but one thing is certain: Brenda Ngxoli’s decision to speak out has had a profound impact, and her story will continue to inspire others to break the silence and seek help.
If you or someone you know is experiencing family violence, please reach out for help. There are resources available to support you.
South African National Hotline for Domestic Violence: 0800 150 150
Childline South Africa: 0800 055 555
