In a recent interview on Pasi Koetle’s Mommy Diaries YouTube podcast, actress and podcaster Simphiwe Ngema shared candid insights on how she handles online criticism, her experiences as a mother, and the challenges of balancing work with family life.
Simphiwe, best known for her role in the hit TV soap Muvhango, discussed how she’s learned to ignore online negativity, particularly from people who don’t know her personally. “You only know parts about me that I’ve allowed you to see. You don’t know who Simphiwe Ngema is,” she explained. She acknowledged the constant judgment that comes with being in the public eye, particularly on social media, but emphasised that people often form opinions based on surface-level assumptions.
“People think because I’m a pretty face, I must be a ‘slay queen’ or involved with blessers. But those who follow me know I’m always at home. I don’t like clubbing,” she said, pointing out how misleading online perceptions can be. Simphiwe also mentioned how people are often surprised when they hear her speak in interviews, questioning, “Do I look stupid? Which part of me looks stupid?”
Despite the harsh comments she faces online, Simphiwe shared that she’s never encountered such negativity in person. “At my worst, when the media tore me apart, there was never a time I received negative comments face-to-face. It’s just love,” she said. To her, social media creates a false perception that the entire world is against you, but in reality, it’s only a small group of people who don’t know her personally.
As a mother of two, Simphiwe also opened up about the challenges of balancing work with parenting. She confessed to feeling guilty about not spending enough time with her kids, especially when her work schedule is demanding. “Time is more important than money. I’d rather say no to a bag and spend a day with Tiyani,” she shared. However, she acknowledged that financial responsibilities sometimes require sacrifice.
Simphiwe spoke lovingly about the special bond she shares with her son, saying, “He looks at me like I’m his everything.” For mothers who don’t have a strong support system, she offered heartfelt advice: “You are doing well, you are doing the best that you can, and that’s enough.”
