Tebogo Thobejane to tell her story of survival in memoir on Cat Matlala

by Zaghrah Anthony

Tebogo Thobejane writes her story of survival after Cat Matlala ordeal

For Tebogo Thobejane, the headlines and court updates have never told the full story. Now, the actress and socialite is taking control of her narrative, transforming one of the darkest chapters of her life into a memoir.

According to reports, Thobejane has begun writing her debut book, focusing on her experience with controversial businessman Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala — a figure whose name has been linked to criminal investigations, attempted murder charges, and high-profile scandals in South Africa.

From public scrutiny to private reflection

Thobejane’s decision to write comes months after a harrowing event that left her physically injured and emotionally scarred. In October 2023, she survived a targeted shooting on the N1 highway near Sandton. Her vehicle was allegedly ambushed and riddled with bullets, leaving her with injuries while her friend suffered a spinal injury that resulted in paralysis.

The attack drew national attention, especially after Matlala was arrested and charged with attempted murder and conspiracy to commit murder. Since then, the case has moved slowly through the courts, keeping both Thobejane and Matlala in the public eye.

“I want to tell my story in my own words,” Thobejane reportedly said in discussions with media sources. “People have followed snippets online and in courtrooms, but they don’t know what it actually felt like to live through this.”

Social media has been abuzz since news of her memoir surfaced, with fans applauding her courage. Many have drawn parallels to the growing trend of survivors using memoirs to reclaim their voices, turning personal trauma into testimony that goes beyond sensational headlines.

Memoirs as a space for healing

Historically, memoirs were reserved for politicians or celebrities seeking a polished “tell-all.” But today, they have evolved into platforms for survival, resilience, and social commentary. For survivors of violence, memoirs often serve a different purpose than court cases or media coverage: they allow for reflection, honesty, and the reclamation of agency.

Thobejane’s book is reportedly part of this process. Sources say she sees it as a way to “start afresh” and speak candidly about fear, survival, and rebuilding her life after trauma.

Keeping the focus on justice

Meanwhile, Matlala remains in custody at eBongweni Super-Maximum Prison for security reasons, with his pre-trial hearing postponed. The Madlanga Commission has also kept him in the spotlight. SAPS Brigadier Rachel Matjeng has already testified about her personal relationship with Matlala while denying bribery allegations, and more witnesses are expected to provide testimony on his financial dealings and ties to senior police officials.

The memoir, once released, is likely to intersect with ongoing court proceedings and public discourse, offering insight into a story that has captivated South Africa for years.

A narrative reclaimed

For Tebogo Thobejane, the memoir is more than a book. It is an act of reclaiming her life from a chapter defined by fear, headlines, and speculation. By putting pen to paper, she will finally have the chance to tell her story — fully, unfiltered, and in her own voice.

In a world where high-profile survivors of violence often become objects of gossip, Thobejane’s memoir promises a fresh, human perspective on survival, trauma, and resilience and a reminder that the truth belongs to those who live it.

Source: IOL

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