A heartfelt memorial service at Mmabatho Convention Centre honours the legacy of Presley Chweneyagae, with echoes of the 2018 tribute to HHP resounding in the air.
The Mmabatho Convention Centre in Mafikeng was a scene of deep emotion on Tuesday, as a community united to bid a heartfelt farewell to the late “Tsotsi” actor, Presley Chweneyagae. The memorial service, filled with tears, laughter, and powerful tributes, resonated deeply with the memory of the emotionally charged gathering held in the same venue for legendary music icon HHP in 2018.
Chweneyagae, affectionately known as “Tobetsa” by those closest to him, passed away at the age of 40, leaving an irreplaceable void in the South African arts landscape. His groundbreaking role in the Oscar-winning film Tsotsi, alongside The River, and a distinguished career in television and theatre, firmly founded his legacy as a cornerstone of South African storytelling.
A Cultural Homecoming in Mahikeng
Mafikeng Mayor Tshepiso Mphehlo delivered a moving welcome, pointing out Chweneyagae’s huge contributions and the profound impact of his stardom on the province’s cultural height. “That period was a pinnacle period for the arts and culture in Mafikeng,” Mayor Mphehlo remarked, recalling the mid-2000s explosion of local talent ignited by the release of Tsotsi and the flourishing Motswako music movement.
The mayor fondly remembered how local stars like HHP, Tuks Senganga, and Mo Molemi, alongside Chweneyagae, instilled hope in the youth of Mahikeng, proving that extraordinary talent could emerge from any background. “Today, like we did in 2018 in this very hall for HHP, we are gathered once again to bid farewell to a torchbearer of hope,” he declared, drawing a powerful parallel between the two beloved figures.
WATCH: Tobetsa’s Memorial Service in Mafikeng
“Tobetsa”: A Community’s Beloved Connector
Actor Rantebeng Makapan, known for his role in Generations, shared an emotional tribute, describing Chweneyagae as a true “people’s person.” His cherished nickname, “Tobetsa,” was more than just a name; it symbolised his natural ability to bring people together (Tobetsa – Press/Make things happen).
“Tobetsa was able to gather people,” Makapan affirmed. “Even through the pain we’re feeling right now, we all know he made us laugh. He didn’t care for five-star venues – he cared about people.”
Makapan recalled visiting Chweneyagae’s home after hearing the devastating news, sharing how the late actor’s wife insisted he be celebrated, not mourned. “He did so many things for us to come here and cry for him,” he added, urging those in attendance to honour Chweneyagae’s memory with joy and profound gratitude for his life and contributions.
A Week of Tributes: From Mmabatho to Pretoria
Tuesday’s service in Mmabatho marks the first of two big tributes planned in honour of Chweneyagae. A second memorial is scheduled for Thursday at the iconic State Theatre in Pretoria. This gathering will allow friends and colleagues from the broader entertainment industry to pay their respects in Gauteng, the province where Chweneyagae spent a chunk of his illustrious professional life.
A Guiding Light for Mahikeng’s Rising Stars
In what would become one of his final acts of service to the arts, Presley Chweneyagae joined the Serakatuma Arts Pilot Initiative in Mahikeng as a drama facilitator and acting coach, lending his immense talent to a programme designed to uplift and educate. Spearheaded by fellow screen legend Rapulana Seiphemo and backed by the Department of Sports, Arts and Culture under the banner of “30 Years of Democracy”, the initiative was more than just a skills incubator — it was a lifeline.
Presley committed himself wholeheartedly to mentoring the young creatives selected from hundreds of hopefuls, offering not just instruction but inspiration. His involvement was described as a gift by the Serakatuma team — his presence warm, wise, and quietly transformative. Though his passing came before the workshops could begin in full, his spirit now threads through every monologue, every stage cue, and every dream that finds voice in Mahikeng.
A Lasting Legacy in South African Film and Arts
Presley Chweneyagae’s breakout performance as David/Tsotsi in Gavin Hood’s 2005 cinematic masterpiece solidified his name on the global stage. Tsotsi‘s triumph, winning the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film, cemented Chweneyagae’s status as a symbol of South African cinematic excellence and a beacon of hope for aspiring artists.
Beyond his celebrated acting career, Chweneyagae was an active and passionate voice in theatre and community outreach. He frequently mentored young actors and was a staunch champion of authentic local storytelling.
His passing leaves a visible void in the South African entertainment industry. However, his enduring legacy of talent, dedication, and community spirit will continue to inspire countless artists across South Africa and beyond for generations to come.
Also read: A Bright Flame Extinguished: SA Mourns the Loss of Presley Chweneyagae at 40
