Clement Maosa, best known for his role as Kwaito on Skeem Saam, recently opened up about his late parents and how he wishes they were alive to witness his career success. The 36-year-old actor, originally from Limpopo, lost both his parents when he was just 17 years old.
In a heartfelt interview with Daily Sun, Maosa shared that his parents never fully understood his passion for acting, viewing it as nothing more than a hobby. “They never took acting as a serious career. I remember at some point they said I could do acting as a hobby when I told them I wanted to go to Wits University and study film and production. They said, ‘You are either going to be a doctor or a lawyer,’” Maosa recalled. As a result, he pursued a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree, a dream his parents had for him, but they passed away before he could complete it.
Now a household name in South African television, Maosa reflected on how much he wishes his parents could witness the milestones he’s achieved. “As a youngster, each time you achieve something or go through a certain period in your life, the first people you think about are your parents because you grow up looking up to them,” he said. “Eventually, when I get that thing they always wanted for me, I always wish they were here.”
Maosa’s career is at a high point, with a nomination for Best Supporting Actor in a TV Soap Opera at the 18th edition of the South African Film and Television Awards (Saftas) for his role on Skeem Saam. Having played Kwaito for 13 seasons, this recognition feels especially meaningful. “The fact that I got recognition by the Saftas means so much to me. It’s something I’ve always looked forward to, but also because I am passionate about my talent and craft,” he shared. “It is always important to get that nod of encouragement to say, ‘We see you and love your work and believe that you are worthy.’”
Despite his success as an actor, Maosa remains grounded, acknowledging that there is still much more he hopes to achieve. “To say I’ve achieved everything I want would be a pure lie. I’ve ticked some of the few things that I’ve set up for myself, but there’s still so much to do. I’ve just touched the base. My dream is to go to Hollywood and become a movie star,” he revealed.
