Chochocho resident switches focus from journalism to jokes
Local journalist Sbonangaye Maphanga is transitiong from local print media to digital acting, leveraging his storytelling background and the power of social media to finally pursue his lifelong dream of being on screen.
For years, Sbonangaye Maphanga (35) told stories of others. As a dedicated journalist, he mastered the art of the written word, documenting the heartbeat of his community.
Now Maphanga, who hails from Chochocho, is stepping out from behind the byline and into the spotlight, trading his press card for a camera lens as he chases a lifelong dream of performing.
Maphanga’s path to the screen has not been a straight line, but every step was intentional.
After finishing high school in 2008, he pursued a journalism qualification in 2010. While he built a respectable career in local print media, the bright lights of television were always the end goal.
“Since I was young, I have always loved television, especially acting. That’s part of the reason I chose journalism. I hoped it would eventually open doors for me to be on TV,” he explained.
While his formal training was in traditional media, it was the digital revolution that finally provided the stage Maphanga needed. Although he has been a social media user since 2009, it was not until last year that he began to see it as a broadcasting network.
Experimenting with video content, he quickly discovered that his natural charisma translated perfectly to the screen.
The public responses were not just pride metrics, they were a confirmation of a hidden talent for comedy.
Every great comedian has a breakthrough moment, and for Maphanga, that moment arrived in 2026.
He introduced the world to Anti Lomasontfo, a character whose wit and relatability struck a chord with the masses.
Anti Lomasontfo’s digital presence has become a household name, allowing Maphanga to blend his journalistic eye for human behaviour with a flair for the hilarious. “I’m excited because I finally feel like I am heading in the right direction. Comedy is what I love most,” he said.
What makes Maphanga’s content stand out is the discipline he carries over from his journalism background.
He understands pacing, audience engagement and the power of a well-told story. He crafs narratives that reflect his roots while keeping his audience doubled over in laughter.
