Tumi Morake Biography: Early Life, Career, and Achievements

Tumi Morake is a well-known South African comedian, actress, TV personality, and writer. She has made a name for herself in the entertainment industry with her unique brand of comedy, which is both edgy and relatable. Morake has achieved several milestones in her career, including becoming the first African woman to have her own set on Netflix.

Born on December 22, 1981, in Free State, South Africa, Morake started her career in the entertainment industry as a radio presenter. She later transitioned to stand-up comedy, where she quickly made a name for herself with her witty and hilarious performances. Morake’s talent and hard work have earned her several accolades, including the title of South Africa’s First Lady of Comedy.

Morake is also known for her acting skills, having starred in several movies and TV shows. She is happily married to Mpho Osei Tutu, who is also an actor, director, and writer. Morake’s life and career continue to inspire many people, especially young women who aspire to succeed in the entertainment industry.

Image Credit: TimesLives

Early Life and Education

Birth and Family Background

Tumi Morake, a renowned South African comedian, actress, and TV personality, was born on December 22, 1981, in the Free State Province of South Africa. Her family background is not widely known, but it is believed that she grew up with her parents and siblings in Free State before moving to Gauteng in 2000.

Education and Early Influences

Tumi Morake pursued her studies in Gauteng, where she attended the prestigious Wits University. She studied Drama and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree. During her time at Wits, she was influenced by the likes of John Kani, who is renowned for his work in the South African theatre industry.

Despite facing a traumatic experience of rape at a young age, Tumi Morake went on to exceed her potential, earning her place as one of the most successful comedians in South Africa. Her early influences in the entertainment industry included the likes of Trevor Noah, who she has cited as a role model and inspiration.

Tumi Morake
Image Credit : SNL24
Full Name: Yvonne Chaka Chaka
Born: December 22, 1981 (age 42)
Nationality: South African
Education: Wits University
Occupation: Comedian,  Film
Popular for:  Seriously Single
Children:  3

Career

Stand-Up Comedy

Tumi Morake began her career in stand-up comedy in 2005, where she quickly gained recognition for her unique brand of humor. She has since become one of the most well-known comedians in South Africa, performing at various comedy festivals and events across the country. Her comedy is often described as witty, relatable, and thought-provoking, covering a range of topics from politics to relationships.

Television and Film Roles

Morake has also made a name for herself in the television and film industry. She has appeared in various TV shows and movies, including the popular South African soap opera, Isidingo, and the comedy film, Happiness is a Four-Letter Word. In 2017, she hosted her own talk show, #WTFTumi, which aired on SABC 3.

Radio and Writing

Morake is also an accomplished writer and radio personality. She has written for various publications, including True Love magazine, and has been a regular contributor to The Times newspaper. In addition, she has hosted several radio shows, including The Drive on Metro FM and The Saturday Breakfast Show on Jacaranda FM.

Awards and Recognition

Morake has received numerous awards and recognition for her work in the entertainment industry. In 2013, she won the Comics’ Choice Award for the Audience Choice Award, and in 2016, she won the award for Best Comedian at the South African Film and Television Awards. She has also been named one of the Top 100 Most Influential Young South Africans by Avance Media.