Ayanda Thabethe, born on March 18, 1986, is a 38-year-old South African actress, model, TV presenter, and entrepreneur who has captivated audiences with her charisma and business acumen. Known for hosting Top Billing on BET Africa, her net worth is estimated at $500,000–$1.5 million, amassed through her multifaceted career. Previously married to Andile Ncube and later linked to Zulu Mkhathini (Dash) and Peter Matsimbe, she welcomed her first child in 2022. This article explores her age, career, salary, dating history, and recent achievements, offering fresh insights into her journey.
Early Life and Education: Shaping Ayanda Thabethe’s Path
Born in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, Ayanda Thabethe grew up in a challenging environment after her parents’ divorce when she was just two. Raised by her single mother, a nurse, alongside her four sisters, Ayanda contributed to the family by selling cold drinks and assisting with her mother’s dressmaking business. Despite financial hardships, she attended Sacred Heart Girls’ High School and later earned a BCOM in Communication Management from the University of Pretoria in 2007, followed by an Honours Marketing degree from the University of South Africa in 2011. Her academic foundation in communication and marketing became the bedrock of her entrepreneurial ventures.
Her early struggles instilled resilience, a trait that shines through in her career. “Growing up in Durban’s townships taught me grit and determination,” Ayanda shared on her Instagram. This firsthand perspective of overcoming adversity adds depth to her public persona, resonating with fans who admire her hustle.
Career Highlights: From Modeling to Media Mogul
Modeling Beginnings and Breakthrough
Ayanda’s career began with modeling, despite initial rejections for being “too short” at 1.6 meters. Her persistence led her to Alushi Model Management, owned by Shashi Naidoo, where she defied stereotypes. She became a brand ambassador for global giants like L’Oreal Mizani and Ponds, gracing covers of magazines like Cosmopolitan. In 2016, she was the face of Legit Fashion’s Summer Collection, cementing her status as a style icon.
Television Stardom and Hosting
Ayanda’s television career skyrocketed when she hosted Top Billing, a premier South African lifestyle show on BET Africa. Her engaging presence made her a household name. She also starred in Rockville Season 4 as Aaliyah, earning critical acclaim for her versatility. Her acting portfolio includes roles in Generations Legacy and Tooth and Nails, showcasing her fluency in Zulu and English. Her salary as a TV host and actress likely contributes significantly to her wealth, though exact figures remain undisclosed.
Entrepreneurial Ventures
As the founder of Buzzworthy Productions, established in 2011, Ayanda has built a marketing agency that serves blue-chip clients while championing corporate social responsibility. Her collaboration with her sister Lungile Thabethe on the beauty brand Quick Face with Mr Price highlights her business savvy. This venture, featured in Glamour SA, underscores her ability to blend creativity with commerce.
Net Worth and Salary: Financial Success Unveiled
Ayanda Thabethe’s net worth is estimated between $500,000 and $1.5 million as of 2025, driven by her work in modeling, acting, hosting, and entrepreneurship. While her exact salary is private, industry insights suggest top South African TV hosts earn between ZAR 500,000–1 million annually, with additional income from endorsements. Her partnerships with brands like Puma and Woolworths further boost her earnings. Unlike many celebrities, Ayanda’s financial strategy emphasizes diversification, from media to business ownership, ensuring long-term stability.
Married Life and Dating History: Personal Insights
Past Marriage and Relationships
Ayanda was married to TV presenter Andile Ncube for two years before their amicable divorce. She later dated Zulu Mkhathini (Dash) until 2018, maintaining a friendly rapport post-breakup. Rumors of a romance with Papi Rabolai and Bongani Khumalo surfaced, but her most notable relationship was with Peter Matsimbe, the father of her son born on March 16, 2022. Controversy arose when blogger Musa Khawula alleged Matsimbe was married, which Ayanda firmly denied on Twitter: “I am NOT dating nor do I have a child with a married man.”
Current Relationship Status
As of July 2025, Ayanda is reportedly dating Brent Pretorius, celebrating their first anniversary with a romantic photoshoot at Sardinia Bay Beach in December 2024. Their chemistry, captured by Die Humans Photography, has fans buzzing on social media. This relationship marks a new chapter, with Ayanda embracing love while balancing motherhood and her career.
Motherhood and Recent Updates
Becoming a mother in 2022 transformed Ayanda’s perspective. “Motherhood has grounded me in ways I never imagined,” she told Glamour SA. Her son, whose name she keeps private, has inspired her to advocate for work-life balance. In 2025, she launched a new campaign with Clover Krush, promoting healthy lifestyles, and continues to influence through her personal website. Her social media, with over 2.3 million Instagram followers, remains a platform for self-love and style inspiration.
Unique Insights: Ayanda’s Impact on South African Media
Ayanda’s journey offers a case study in resilience and reinvention. Unlike many celebrities, she leverages her platform for social good, supporting initiatives like the Nelson Mandela Foundation. Her ability to navigate a male-dominated industry while maintaining authenticity sets her apart. A 2024 study by Statista noted that South African women in media, like Ayanda, are driving viewership with their relatable content, with Top Billing averaging 400,000 viewers per episode during her tenure.
Her collaboration with Lungile on Quick Face also highlights a trend of sibling-led ventures in South Africa, tapping into the growing beauty market, valued at ZAR 20 billion in 2025. This strategic move positions Ayanda as a trailblazer in both entertainment and entrepreneurship.
Ayanda Thabethe Biography Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Ayanda Thabethe |
| Date of Birth | March 18, 1986 |
| Age | 38 years old (as of 2025) |
| Birthplace | KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa |
| Nationality | South African |
| Education | BCOM Communication Management (University of Pretoria, 2007), Honours Marketing (University of South Africa, 2011) |
| Height | 1.6 meters |
| Siblings | Four sisters, including Lungile Thabethe |
| Marital Status | Divorced (Andile Ncube); Currently dating Brent Pretorius |
| Children | One son (born March 16, 2022) |
| Net Worth | $500,000–$1.5 million (estimated) |
| Salary | Estimated ZAR 500,000–1 million annually (TV hosting and endorsements) |
| Career | Actress, Model, TV Host, Entrepreneur |
| Notable Works | Top Billing, Rockville Season 4, Generations Legacy |
| Business Ventures | Buzzworthy Productions, Quick Face (with Mr Price) |
| Brand Endorsements | L’Oreal Mizani, Ponds, Puma, Woolworths, Clover Krush |
| Awards | Most Stylish Media Personality, You Spectacular Rising Star (SA Style Awards) |
| Social Media | Instagram: @ayandathabethe_ (2.3M followers), Twitter: @AyandaThabethe_ |
| Website | ayandathabethe.com |
Conclusion: Ayanda Thabethe’s Lasting Legacy
Ayanda Thabethe continues to redefine success in South Africa’s entertainment and business landscapes. At 38, her net worth, career, and personal growth reflect a woman who transforms challenges into opportunities. From her early days in Durban to her current status as a mother, partner to Brent Pretorius, and media mogul, Ayanda’s story inspires. Follow her journey on Wikipedia or her Instagram for the latest updates.
