On behalf of government, Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie and Deputy Minister Peace Mabe have paid tribute to veteran actress, model and beauty queen Cynthia Shange, whose legacy spans decades of contributions to the country’s arts and culture, and to global representation.
They extended their heartfelt condolences to the Shange family, colleagues and the broader arts and culture community after she passed away at the age of 76.
McKenzie described Shange as a fearless pioneer who transformed the landscape of representation.
“Cynthia Shange was a barrier-breaker for black people and for women at a time when both were systematically excluded from global platforms. She stood where many were told they did not belong, and in doing so, redefined what was possible for generations to come. Her legacy is one of courage, dignity and unapologetic excellence,” the Minister said on Monday.
Born in 1949 in Lamontville, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, Shange emerged as a pioneering figure during a period of deep systemic exclusion.
She rose to prominence in the early 1970s, making history in 1972 when she won the Miss Natal title and went on to become the first black woman to represent South Africa at the Miss World 1972 pageant.
Her presence on the global stage during this period marked a defining moment for black South Africans and for women in public life.
Shange went on to build a distinguished acting career, with notable roles in Udeliwe, Shaka Zulu, and Muvhango. Her performances resonated with audiences across generations and contributed meaningfully to South Africa’s creative identity.
The Deputy Minister emphasised the enduring significance of Shange’s journey.
“She broke barriers for black South Africans and for women throughout this country who saw in her a reflection of their own potential. Cynthia Shange carried the hopes of many and proved that talent, resilience and identity cannot be suppressed. Her life’s work will continue to inspire young women and creatives to claim their space in the world,” Mabe said
Parliament pays its respect to Shange
The Presiding Officers of Parliament, National Assembly Speaker Thoko Didiza and National Council of Provinces Chairperson Refilwe Mtshweni-Tsipane, have also expressed their deepest condolences to the family, friends, colleagues, and the broader arts community, following the passing of multi-award-winning and internationally recognised thespian.
“Shange was more than an actress – she was a cultural pioneer, a trailblazer, and a powerful symbol of African excellence at a time when the dignity and humanity of Black South Africans were systematically denied under apartheid,” Parliament said on Monday.
