Following the bombshell sexual violation allegations from actress Nirvana Nokwe against actor Bonko Khoza, many South African celebrities have reached out to the star with words of comfort and support. Nirvana previously shared her experience of violation of her personal boundaries in October 2024.
Also see: Nirvana Nokwe-Mseleku shares personal experience of violation on set
On 15 May 2026, the former Red Ink star shared a video on her Instagram account explaining why she has no plans to return to the screen. The following day, she shared a screen recording of her lengthy email to Desiree Markgraaff, one of the founding partners of The Bomb Shelter, a local production company. Nirvana addressed an incident involving her co-star Bonko, who was “in character” when he allegedly ‘thrusted’ against her. Nirvana accused Desiree of denying the existence of the evidence and diminishing what had occurred.
Nirvana Nokwe shares her frustration
In her first post, Nirvana shared with social media users:
“I will never put myself in a position where I’m being told that my body is not mine. I’m never going to put myself in an ecosystem that isn’t sustainable. I’m not going to waste my precious life just to be seen by millions of people across the continent, dare I say the world.
“I’m seeing my body in a GBV (gender-based violence) South Africa. Being gaslit by people who co-founded unions said to fight against sexual harassment. I’m being told I’ll never work if I speak out or if I report this to those organisations.”
She reiterated that people would never see her on traditional media again, as it left her broken and with thoughts of wanting to commit suicide.
“I came out with the truth and was redirected to six different police stations when I was being gaslit, and the evidence was all there when I was ignored and isolated. People looked at me like I was crazy. I will never share my light in the gutter again, but I will share my light in my own spaces, in my own way, and in my own expression,” she noted.
Take a look at her Instagram post below.
View this post on Instagram
Also see: Tembinkosi Ngcukana Addresses Fans Over Blurred Boundaries
Local celebs show Nirvana Nokwe love
Several popular media figures headed to Nirvana’s comment section to show their support.
Actor and musician Khaya Dladla wrote to the actress, “I’m so sorry, lover. This industry is so tough, and the people who lead it play a vital role in how it affects us every day. Praying for your healing.”
Singer and entrepreneur Lady Du stated in the comments, “You know what, I’m proud of you for standing up for yourself.”
Actress Refilwe Modiselle responded to the post, “Oh, baby. In life, God gives us different situations/crossroads to truly look at; it’s not what we want but how He wants us to serve. We have so many tools inside of us, and at times, it’s in the hard parts that those tools come to life. Sending you love and light.”
Nirvana’s Outlaws co-star Rosemary Zimu said, “I’m so sorry, Nirvana.”
Media personality Dineo Ranaka remarked under the post, “God uses us in different ways. In different seasons. For different reasons. Never is a long time… So I’ve learnt from what I’ve said in the past about radio. Your future deployment awaits. And it might be traditional media. I’m sorry about your experience.”
Also see: Nirvana Nokwe Admits Photo with Beyoncé Was AI-Made, Not Real
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