Lebohang Lephatsoana: A star on the rise

by Limpho Nonkonyane

Multi-talented Youngins star Lebohang Lephatsoana, also known as Royal Lebo sat down with BONA to speak on his journey on the show.

Lebohang Lephatsoana, who was born and bred in The Vaal Sebokeng portrays the character of a grade 10 learner Tumelo Dibakwe on the Showmax Originals teen-drama Youngins which premiered earlier this year and the engaging storyline became topical on social media as many users felt that it was more relatable to South African high school learners.

The show captures five students who navigate adulthood together and work together to try and expose the principal, a predator.

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Speaking to BONA, Lebohang described his journey on Youngins as an amazing experience, adding, “When I first entered the workspace it was a bit nerve-wracking. The intensity of the storyline build-up took me on a rollercoaster of emotions and it challenged me a lot as an actor and had me digging deeper into my actor’s toolkit but overall portraying the story of Tumelo has been an amazing journey.”

With the LGBTQ+ community seeking representation within the industry Lebohang felt that it was important for him to take on this role as Tumelo represents the queer community in schools who want to be heard and seen.
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When asked about the similarities between him and his character Tumelo, Lebohang stated that his character allowed him to relive his high school days. He also told BONA that, “Tumelo is obsessed with social media, he is very flamboyant and over the top. However, Lebo is much more reserved and calmer than Tumelo, as for the lingo I had to borrow from mine to give to Tumelo hence that makes the distinction between the two very slim.”

Outside of acting Lebohang is a dancer, musician and content creator and is currently working on his amapiano EP titled iBonda featuring EmDeekay, Freaky Stacks & DJ Troshka.

Also see: ‘Count it as as blessing to live with your child’ – Khaya Mthethwa on co-parenting struggles