Mapula Mafole Mourns the Loss of Her Father to Cancer

South African actress Mapula Mafole, best known for her role in *Rhythm City*, is grieving the loss of her father, who passed away after a battle with cancer. The actress, who has faced personal struggles including depression, shared her heartache with her followers on social media, expressing how difficult this year has been for her.

In an emotional tweet, Mafole revealed that a month had passed since her father’s death, and she continues to feel the weight of her loss. She acknowledged that adjusting to life without him has been overwhelming. “It’s been a difficult year. A month ago today, I lost my dad. I’m still not okay. I don’t particularly want to be here anymore but he would have wanted me to go on. He was my biggest fan and believed in me. That’s my only motivation now,” she wrote. Mafole added, “Anyway… I miss you, Papa  #cancersucks.”

The actress also posted a heartfelt message on Instagram, saying that her heart feels broken and nothing seems to make sense anymore. She admitted that everything reminds her of her late father, and she struggles with the fact that she can no longer share her experiences with him. “I hate that I can’t share things with you anymore. I hate that you are not here. I will love and miss you until my last day, Papa.”

### Overcoming Personal Challenges

Mapula Mafole’s road to fame was not without its challenges. Throughout her life, she has faced numerous struggles, including battling depression from a young age. Her story resonates with many young people in South Africa, as her acting roles often reflect the difficulties faced by teenagers in African societies. Mafole began portraying teenage characters in 2012, and her experiences both on and off-screen have made her an inspiration to many.

Her journey took a turn when she enrolled at AFDA to study acting. However, during this time, her father returned from the UK, where he had been searching for better opportunities, only to fall seriously ill with both a stroke and cancer. These health issues devastated the family, and the burden fell heavily on Mafole, who was already dealing with personal challenges.

Its been a difficult year. A month ago today, i lost my dad. Im still not okay. I don’t particularly want to be here anymore but he would have wanted me to go on. He was my biggest fan and believed in me. Thats my only motivation now. Anyway… I miss you Papa 💔🕊️ #cancersucks pic.twitter.com/XUF04hkzvR

— Mapula Mafole (@mapulamafole) November 19, 2023

Growing up in a family where both parents were away seeking better job prospects, Mapula was raised by her siblings. She faced the hardship of frequent school transfers, which left her struggling to fit in. This loneliness and isolation eventually led to depression and anxiety. At just 13 years old, Mafole sought help from a school psychologist, which helped her begin the healing process. It was not until her graduation that she found the strength and confidence to pursue her dream of acting.

### A Heartfelt Loss

Mafole’s mother, a certified nurse, is still alive, but the death of her father has been an immense blow to her. Despite the passage of time, she continues to struggle with the loss. This painful year marks the first anniversary of her father’s death, and Mapula’s emotional journey continues to unfold. During this challenging time, Mafole has asked for her followers’ prayers, as she continues to navigate the grief and loss of her beloved father.

We extend our condolences to Mapula Mafole and her family during this difficult period. May they find comfort and strength as they remember the love and support her father provided throughout his life.