Showmax Gen Z stars speak out for Youth Day 2025

They’re bold, unapologetic, and rewriting the script on what it means to be young in South Africa. From TikTok trends to cultural truths, Gen Z doesn’t just live online — they thrive there. In celebration of Youth Day 2025, Showmax sat down with some of the standout young stars of Youngins, Soft Life, and Adulting to talk about what Youth Day means to them and how their roles are shaping the conversation for a new generation. 

Lebohang Lephatsoana – Tumelo in Youngins 

How has being part of Youngins shaped your experience as a young South African? 

It’s been absolutely life-changing. Playing Tumelo has given me the chance to tell a story that deeply resonates with queer youth. It’s my first major role, and I’m proud to be part of something that makes people feel seen. I still get goosebumps when I think about the impact. 

What does Youth Day mean to you? 

It’s a reminder that students once fought for the right to learn. That bravery still inspires me. Every June 16, I wear my old school shirt in remembrance we’re the “new school,” but we owe everything to those who came before us. 

Ayakha Ntunja – Amo in Youngins 

What did you take away from being part of Youngins? 

It helped me realise the importance of claiming space in the industry, in the world, everywhere. Youth bring energy, creativity, and bold ideas. This show helped me grow, not just as an actor, but as a person. 

What kind of impact do you think Youngins has had on young viewers? 

It’s fresh, it’s real, and it shows young people that there are opportunities out there. It also sparks conversations between teens and their parents. I hope it encourages young people to support one another and speak up about what they’re going through. 

Zimi Mphefu – Buhle in Soft Life 

How has Soft Life influenced your view of growing up? 

It’s shown me how complex and emotionally intense teenage life really is. We go through so much, yet we’re often overlooked. This role reminded me how important love, support, and guidance are during those years. It’s not easy figuring yourself out and Soft Life sheds light on that. 

What does Youth Day mean to you in 2025? 

It’s a call to action. Yes, our struggles look different now – social media pressure, unemployment –  but the courage of the 1976 youth lives on in us. We’re the movers and shakers. Youth Day reminds me to keep that fire alive, not just for me, but for those coming after us. 

How does Soft Life speak to youth in vulnerable communities? 

It shows how dangerous peer pressure and glamourised lifestyles can be. Everyone wants the “soft life,” but not all that glitters is gold. The show opens space for tough, necessary conversations,  especially with youth who are often targeted because of their financial struggles. It says, ‘You matter. Don’t lose yourself trying to fit in.’ 

Siphesihle Khanyile – Ncumisa in Adulting

How has Adulting shaped your personal growth? 

It’s been transformative. Playing Ncumisa helped me and my peers open up about father-daughter relationships, grief, and so much more. It made me reflect on how teenage girls navigate the world, especially when raised by a single parent who’s also figuring things out. 

What impact do you think Adulting has had on young adults?  

A huge one. It tackles real issues: unemployment, early pregnancy, single parenting, and identity. It shows the messy, beautiful, complicated truth of our lives, and it’s sparked real conversations that we all needed to have. 

What does Youth Day represent for you this year? 

It stands for resilience and hope. It’s a day to remember how far we’ve come and how far we still need to go especially in education. The future? It’s bright, ma-G! 

Stream the next generation of storytellers on Showmax.

Binge-watch Youngins S1–2, Soft Life S1, and Adulting S1–3 now on Showmax. These shows aren’t just entertainment: they're cultural conversations driven by South Africa’s most fearless generation.