Viewers are lauding Thabiso Ramotshela for his performance in Showmax’s Youngins. The actor plays the role of Mahlatse, who in this season’s episodes finds himself and his family living in poverty, losing his scholarship and having to do whatever it takes to survive.
The actor opened up about portraying the weight of poverty, the power of friendship and the realness of hustle culture
From seasons 1 to 3 we’ve seen Mahlatse evolve from a nerdy, love-sick teen to a frustrated young man carrying the world on his shoulders. How did it feel playing Mahlatse in this final season of Youngins?
This season was definitely emotionally draining. But more than that, I felt a deep empathy for Mahlatse. I mean, being a teenager is hard enough without also having to worry about how you’re going to fund your own education. That’s a heavy load.
Even when I wasn’t on set, I’d carry Mahlatse with me. I’d sit with his pain, his drive, his desperation. I had to immerse myself in his world to portray him authentically. If I didn’t, it would have shown on screen.
So yes, empathy really grounded my performance. I had to understand him deeply to do him justice.
Your scenes with your on-screen mother Mary (played by Maki Mokhitli) eft many viewers in tears. What was it like working alongside her?
Working with Maki Mokhitli was an honour. We really held space for each other — especially in the more emotional scenes. Their daily life is a struggle. Mary is a single mother, painfully aware of their dire situation. The only peace she gets is knowing her son is safe at boarding school with three meals a day and access to education. And for Mahlatse, the bursary meant security — until that falls through.
Maki and I understood how delicate this storyline was. We approached it with vulnerability, care and respect. Their story reflects so many South African households. It’s a mirror of our society, the cruelty of poverty and how it strips away dignity.
With so much weighing Mahlatse down, what’s the one positive takeaway from his journey?
His friendship with the Olifants Five. Even though this season tests them, the bond is real. He cares deeply for them.
Also, his hustle. Mahlatse’s story highlights how resilient young people are when faced with financial hardships. Hustle culture is real, especially for the youth. Mahlatse could sell honey to a bee! Sure, his hustle is sometimes misguided, but the potential is there. You can’t ignore it.
Viewers have been moved to tears this season, with many saying you deserve a Safta nod. What’s your take on that?
I just want to give all praise and glory to the Lord. I feel amazing, grateful, happy and incredibly appreciative. It’s nothing but gratitude from both me and my family.
I also want viewers to know that I do this for them — especially for the kids out there who are really going through what Mahlatse is experiencing in the story. I grew up with a father; Mahlatse didn’t. His character is deeply inspired by my dad — how he grew up, the struggles he faced. That’s why this role means so much to me.
I know there are many Mahlatses out there, and I just want them to know: I see you. I may not have lived exactly what you’re going through, but through my father’s journey and through this character, I’ve come to understand parts of that pain.
As for the Safta talk, I’m truly humbled. I’m passionate about what I do and knowing that the story resonates with people makes me want to keep going.
It’s the final season of Youngins. Any parting words for your cast members?
It’s been an absolute blessing. To dive into such emotional, challenging and rewarding scenes with this team, from the lead cast to the extras, it’s been incredible. I’m grateful.
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