Yesterday, the Oasis of Life Family Church in Daveyton was filled with the warm embrace of love, respect, and sorrow as loved ones, colleagues, friends, and family gathered to honour the life of Connie Chiume, affectionately known as Mam’ Connie. The beloved actress, who passed away on August 6th after a brief illness, left an indelible mark on the hearts of those who knew her and the South African entertainment industry.
According to ZiMoja, the memorial began with powerful opening remarks by award-winning poet Napo Masheane and renowned actor Sello Maake-Ka Ncube, setting the tone for a day of heartfelt tributes. As the Vuyani Dance Theatre performed a moving dance piece, the audience was transported back to Mam’ Connie’s early days in theatre, a fitting tribute to her roots in the performing arts.
Despite her international acclaim, Mam’ Connie never lost touch with her community. Rose Nozipho Mankazane, a close friend and neighbour, spoke warmly of her humility. “Sis Connie was humble, down to earth, loving, warm, and very caring,” Rose shared. “She treated all her neighbours the same way and was never classist or undermining. She never lived a complicated life. She never spoke about her acting career when we were together. She loved life and to celebrate life.”
Desiree Markgraff, who worked closely with Mam’ Connie on iconic shows like Yizo Yizo and Zone 14, remembered her as a quiet yet powerful force. “She could take you to a place of deep emotion or memory in moments. She could move you from laughter, tears, or anger, all in minutes,” Desiree reflected. “This is not only a loss of a wonderful person or a great actress but something more profound—it is the loss of an institution, an era that Connie Chiume represents. This was where being an actor was a calling and wasn’t just about fame and ratings, but to tell a story and to move people.”
Longtime colleague and friend Owen Sejake, who acted alongside Mam’ Connie in the 1970s, described her as a “dynamic woman and teacher who could dance, sing, and act.” Industry peer Lucky Legodi echoed these sentiments, recalling her as a “strict but kind and humble gifted actress.”
The memorial was punctuated by heartfelt performances, including a tribute from the legendary Mahotella Queens, who honoured Mam’ Connie in song. Dr. John Kani, paying his respects, lamented the lack of recognition for South African stars. “If this was Aretha Franklin’s funeral, everyone would be here, BBC would be here, but it’s just Connie. But we appreciate everyone that came,” he said, before turning to her family, adding, “Maybe we are unable to explain how great this lady was.”
Mam’ Connie’s colleagues from Gomora, the show that reintroduced her to a new generation, spoke of her unmatched passion. “Ma Connie was the light in the dark. It doesn’t end here; she is with us forever, time and space. There was no Gomora without Mam Sonto. She was willing to do anything for her family. She carried the role with passion.”
