According to Showmax Stories, Owami Mafokate, daughter of kwaito legend Arthur Mafokate and Queen Sesoko of Abashante fame, shared insights on the latest episode of Born Into Fame about her unique upbringing. “I grew up not even knowing that my parents are big, you know?” she revealed in an exclusive interview.
From a young age, Owami witnessed fans requesting pictures with her father but didn’t grasp the full extent of her parents’ fame. Despite her illustrious lineage, Owami has carved out her own path as a DJ. “It fulfils my heart,” the 22-year-old said, highlighting her passion for music.
Reflecting on her childhood, Owami described her upbringing with her father and grandparents. “My relationship with my dad is interesting. It’s very interesting. He’s a good dad,” she noted. As for her mother, their bond is improving over time. “The more I grow up I’m realising that having parents in your life, that’s very important. I can’t complain, no. It’s all good.”
Owami’s family dynamics are intricate. She and her brother AJ share the same father but have different mothers. While Owami was raised by her father, AJ was brought up by his mother, whom he fondly calls “the love of my life.” He recounted, “She’s been with me through everything. The tough times, good times, she’s been the dream mother.”
AJ also opened up about his limited interactions with their famous father. “He would spoil him on birthdays and make sure that they were memorable. I didn’t grow up with him like that and I think that still affects me to some degree,” he shared.
In a significant move, AJ changed his surname to Mafokate a few years ago when he was about to become a father himself. “My mom and my dad never worked out. My dad, when I was born, didn’t pay damages,” he explained. He chose the Mafokate surname to ensure his child would bear the correct name, a decision solidified when the Mafokate family paid the necessary damages four or five years ago.
Owami and AJ’s stories highlight the complexities of growing up in the shadow of fame, navigating personal identities while honouring their family’s legacy.
