Lebohang Lephatsoana on Tumelo’s journey in Youngins

The third and final season of Youngins premieres on Showmax this Friday, 19 September 2025. The youth-driven drama has captivated audiences across South Africa, setting records on Showmax. 

At the show’s heart is rising star Lebohang Lephatsoana, who continues to shine as Tumelo. His character’s journey deeply resonates with the country’s younger generation, especially queer youth. 

Xabiso Ngqabe caught up with Lebohang to find out more:  

How has being part of Youngins influenced your experience as a young person in South Africa? 

It’s been life changing. Playing Tumelo has been an incredible journey, not just because of the story I get to tell, but because of how deeply it resonates with viewers. A lot of young people, especially queer youth, look up to the characters we play. The experience has transformed my life. I still get goosebumps thinking about it. This was my first big break in the industry, and I’m grateful to be telling a story that matters. 

What impact do you think Youngins has on young audiences across South Africa? 

I believe it’s made many young people more aware of the consequences of their actions. In places like boarding schools, where there’s often less guidance, it’s easy to act without thinking things through. The show sends a strong message: it’s okay to enjoy your youth - but do it mindfully and with caution. 

Sefako and Tumelo had a rocky relationship in Season 2. Without giving away spoilers, what’s their relationship status in Season 3? 

If viewers thought Tumelo and Sefako’s relationship hit rock bottom in Season 2: brace yourselves! Things get even more chaotic this season. We've seen Tumelo struggle with insecurity and being an unsupportive partner, especially with Sefako still in the closet. But this time, it’s not just Tumelo at fault – Sefako plays a role too. In Season 3, both are to blame for the turmoil in their relationship. 

In Season 2, Tumelo struggled with drug addiction. How difficult was it portraying that side of him, especially since Tumelo is usually a happy-go-lucky character? 

Playing Tumelo during his addiction arc took a real toll on me. It was emotionally and physically exhausting. Tumelo on drugs was functioning at a very high level and I had to match that energy for weeks on end. I often wanted to escape to the Vaal, just to recharge. I’m usually a high-energy person but playing someone spiralling into drug use pushed me beyond my limits. Going home helped me reconnect with myself, spending time with family, doing the things Lebohang enjoys – it grounded me so I wouldn’t lose myself in the role.  

In the Season 3 teaser, we see the gang heading to court. If you were Tumelo’s older brother or friend, what advice would you give before they walked in? 

Honestly, I’d tell the Olifants Five to forget about playing heroes and focus on their education. Being the "good guys" has landed them in trouble with the law – not once but twice. While it’s admirable to want to save everyone, it’s not realistic. Just focus on your grades and get out of Olifantsfontein High! 

This season marks the last time we’ll see the Olifants Five on screen together. Any parting words for your fellow cast members? 

It’s been an emotional and unforgettable journey for the Olifants Five and our entire crew. I’ve built real friendships that I truly value from that set. These are such talented young actors, and I really want to commend how they welcomed me. Since Youngins was my first acting gig, I was nervous, but they made the process feel seamless and fun. 

Watch the countdown trailer

Catch Youngins Season 3, premiering only on Showmax from 19 September 2025.