Born and raised in Benoni, Thando Dlomo’s story is one of grace, grit and artistic drive. Her grandmother, a domestic worker, championed her education, laying a foundation rooted in dignity and resilience. Thando’s dreams of becoming a speaker and actor took flight when she was accepted into the Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls. With a double major in theatre and media from Johnson C Smith University, and a master’s in journalism from the University of Southern California, Thando, 32, carved out a career in entertainment. As a producer for Entertainment Tonight, she crafted live and taped segments. That environment sharpened her storytelling instincts and earned her an Emmy. Simultaneously, she pursued acting, culminating in a film debut alongside Viola Davis in The Woman King. That moment, where her two passions converged, affirmed the purpose that drives her: storytelling that is emotionally truthful and culturally rooted. Thando remains an ambassador for RED and Women for Women. She also advocates for trauma-informed education and girls’ empowerment. She credits her grand- mother, as well as actors such as John Kani and Sindi Dlathu, with shaping her worldview.
Key milestones include working as a producer at Entertainment Tonight, contributing to both live and taped segments under intense daily deadlines. Producing for such a high-profile entertainment news show required crafting compelling narratives quickly and accurately, managing high-pressure environments, and demonstrating resourcefulness. The role demanded precision, collaboration and trust in the team — and earned an Emmy award, an unexpected accolade early in the career. Also featured in the film The Woman King, performing alongside acclaimed actors, including Viola Davis. The project involved dual roles as an actor and correspondent, uniting two passions in a singular, defining experience.
I deeply admire my grandmother who, despite not being able to read or write herself, prioritised my education and instilled in me a deep respect for learning. Her wisdom, resilience and unwavering belief in my potential have shaped the foundation of who I am. She taught me that intelligence is not only found in books — it also lives in lived experience, intuition and care. Professionally, I look up to actors such as John Kani and Sindi Dlathu, whose work is rooted in cultural authenticity and emotional truth. Their commitment to craft and their contributions to South African storytelling continue to inspire me. I also admire artists such as Viola Davis and Daniel Day-Lewis for their transformative performances and fearless emotional range. They approach acting with such depth, discipline and humanity, reminding me that storytelling can be a powerful force for empathy, change and connection. Each of these individuals — whether through their personal sacrifices or professional brilliance — has influenced my journey by reminding me of the importance of purpose, integrity and voice.