Trending Now: Boity Thulo opens up about the pressure on young black women in SA entertainment – Fans React

South African TV personality and rapper Boity Thulo has candidly shared her experiences regarding the challenges faced by young black women in the entertainment industry.

During an interview on Power FM, Thulo opened up about the relentless pressure to prove her worth in a space where expectations and perceptions are constantly evolving.

Having worked in the industry for over 15 years, Thulo has established herself as a presenter, actress, rapper and entrepreneur.

However, she emphasised that the pressure for women in the industry is unending.

“I think that’s something that a lot of us have dealt with since then until now. The dynamics change, and the wording may shift, but the sentiment remains the same: having to prove yourself worthy of being in a space, especially as a young black female,” noted Thulo. 

She further elaborated on the challenges she faces with some creating their own narratives on what she should have done to feel worthy of her position. 

“I have to fight against a lot of people being like you don’t deserve to be here or you didn’t work hard enough, et cetera. It was that and having to prove that I do deserve to be here, having to work extra hard to always prove the point of why you are in a position and why you are placed there, outside of you being a pretty face.”

Having started out in the industry from a young age, Thulo also reflected on the evolving nature of the industry. 

She noted that in the beginning, she was questioned why she was in the industry and whether she was doing enough.

Once she proved herself, the narrative shifted to how she achieved her success.

And when she took a step back, the question became, ‘What are you doing now?’ resulting in a never-ending cycle. 

The 35-year-old actress also opened up about ageism faced by women in the entertainment industry. 

“And you know, there’s the age factor, which also a lot of women have to deal with. We get attacked on so many different levels, and then as we age and as we mature, we feel like we become better, but then everyone else is just like, ‘okay, now you’re getting older, and you need to make space for another’.”

In her discussion, Thulo also addressed the industry’s tendency to seek out fresh faces, often expecting seasoned entertainers to step aside. 

“It doesn’t make any sense. Are you suggesting I should leave my job for someone who wants it? This is my life and my livelihood.”

“People treat it as if it’s just a game for us. Like, no, I’m just here, I’m warming somebody else’s seat up. No, I’m here because this is my livelihood.”