Lesufi to launch Mlangeni-Nawa Mentorship to honour late actor

Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has announced the launch of the Don Mlangeni-Nawa Mentorship Programme in honour of the late veteran actor, who passed away last Wednesday at the age of 65.

Lesufi made the announcement during Mlangeni’s funeral service at the Germiston Civic Centre on Saturday, praising the award-winning actor’s four-decade-long career and his dedication to mentoring young artists.

Mourners at the service highlighted Mlangeni’s commitment to guiding inexperienced actors, a legacy the provincial government now seeks to preserve.

“We want to thank him for his teachings,” Lesufi says. “To honour his memory, we will launch the Don Mlangeni Mentorship Programme to support upcoming artists. This is our way of preserving his name, showing gratitude, and ensuring his impact continues. He truly deserves this and more.”

The programme aims to nurture new talent in the arts, keeping Mlangeni’s spirit of mentorship alive.

Final respects

Family, friends, and colleagues gathered at the Germiston Civic Centre to pay their final respects to the award-winning actor.

The beloved thespian was remembered as a mentor, pioneer, and outstanding performer. His widow, Regina Nawa, expresses gratitude to Gauteng Premier Lesufi for his support during the family’s time of loss.

Industry colleagues pay heartfelt tributes, with actress Keketso Semoko, who played Mlangeni’s on-screen wife, Agnes Matabane, on SABC’s long-running soapie ‘Isidingo’, describing him as someone who was “adored by everyone.”

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The funeral service celebrated Mlangeni’s enduring legacy in South African television and theatre, with many highlighting his generosity in nurturing young talent.

ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula joins mourners in honouring the late veteran actor. In his heartfelt tribute, Mbalula speaks of “Bra Don’s” profound love for both his family and the nation, describing it as deeply palpable.

“He was more than just an actor – he was someone who resurrected people’s lives in this industry,” Mbalula says.