Thabo Mkhabela: Biography, Age, Actor, Lecturer

Thabo Mkhabela (born September 1992) is a South African actor, poet and lecturer. He is best known for playing Leshole Mabitsela on the popular SABC1 soapie Skeem Saam.

Biography: Thabo Mkhabela

Full Name: Thabo Cecil Mkhabela

Place of Birth: Bushbuckridge, Mpumalanga

Date of Birth: September 1992 (Age - 33)

Occupation: Actor, Poet, Casting Director, Lecturer

Known For: Skeem Saam

Children: Daughter - Asante

Nationality: South African

Early Life of Thabo Mkhabela

Thabo Cecil Mkhabela was born in September 1992 in Bushbuckridge, Mpumalanga, in an area called Orinoco A. He grew up in a rural environment, and this shaped his storytelling skills and grounded personality.

His father was not present, so his mother raised him. At first, this did not affect him. However, things changed after initiation school 2007. While other boys were fetched by their fathers, Thabo was fethed by his uncle instead. As a result, he became more aware of his father’s absence and mentioned that it was the saddest moment of his life.

Education and Early Career

After obtaining basic education and matric, Thabo took a gap year figuring out what he would like to study at university. Then he studied at the University of Limpopo and earned a BA in Performing Arts.

Initially, he wanted to study Law. However, the Law faculty was full, so he enrolled in the arts instead. This decision worked in his favour. At first he wasn’t interested in acting, he had taken the course as plan-B, but when he saw his university seniors performing on stage, his passion for acting was ignited.

His studies developed his acting skills and strengthened his communication abilities. Later, he also took on lecturing roles, especially in institutions around Tshwane. As a result, he began helping to shape and mentor young talent.

Career Breakthrough and Acting

Mkhabela made his professional screen debut with a lead role in the short film Memoir of an Honest Voice. The film went on to win the Best Short Film award at the 2015 Africa Movie Academy Awards.

Thabo landed his first major television role on Skeem Saam after he was discovered by actor Putla Sehlapelo. He played Leshole Mabitsela, a street-smart and often comedic character. This role made him a household name. In addition, his on-screen chemistry with “Big Boy” created memorable storylines.

Over time, he expanded his work behind the scenes. He worked as a casting director on Skeem Saam. Then in late 2024, he returned to the show after a break. In 2025 he joined Isitha: The Enemy (Season 3) playing the role of Tiga, replacing Ebenhaezer Dibakwane.

He added to his acting resume by also appearing on Bomma (Mzansi Magic), Queen Modjadji, and Limpopo Love Games. Apart from acting Thabo is a poet. In 2025 he worked with his cousin on song in which he contributed his poetic lyrics and rhythms. He is also into community development. He was involved in Bushbuckridge Film Festival.

Personal Life of Thabo Mkhabela

Thabo’s relationship status is not known but he has one child, his daughter Asante. Despite his fame, he lives a private and humble life. In addition, he often speaks about staying true to his roots and values.  He is on social media such as Facebook and on Instagram (@mkhabelathabo), where he updates his followers.