Sdumo Mtshali has landed a Mazda South Africa ambassador role, while Gugu Gumede graces the latest cover of True Love magazine.
By Bulelwa Hoala

The success of Netflix’s hit telenovela The Polygamist continues to open new doors for its cast, with lead actors Sdumo Mtshali and Gugu Gumede celebrating major career milestones.
Mtshali, who stars as Jonas Gomora, has been announced as the newest brand ambassador for Mazda South Africa.
Sharing the news on social media, the actor expressed his excitement about joining the Japanese vehicle manufacturer’s family.
“I’m proud to announce that I’ve officially joined the @mazda_sa family as a Brand Ambassador,” he wrote.
“In Japanese, the word Takumi means ‘master craftsman’. It embodies a legacy of unparalleled skill, precision and a lifelong dedication to mastering a trade or art form. That is one of the reasons why this premium SUV speaks to me. I look forward to this amazing new journey with my Mazda CX-60 Takumi.”
Watch the video below:
Meanwhile, Gugu Gumede, who plays Joyce Gomora in the popular Netflix series, is the latest cover star of True Love magazine’s July–September 2026 issue.
The magazine, now available on shelves, features a glamorous Gumede wearing a Gert-Johan Coetzee design, with the cover promising that she “opens up like never before”.
“Renowned actress Gugu Gumede opens up like never before as our July–September 2026 cover star! ❤️ Grab your copy in stores now!” True Love wrote on Instagram.
The pair recently appeared on CNN Africa, where they reflected on how their lives have changed following the show’s global success.
A global Netflix hit
The Polygamist is a 22-episode telenovela that premiered globally on Netflix on 12 June 2026.
The series quickly climbed the streaming charts, racking up more than 23 million views in its first month. It also reached Netflix’s Top 10 in 62 countries and claimed the number one spot in several markets.
Its success has transcended cultural and language barriers, earning international recognition for its cast and attracting attention from global publications and celebrities, including Hollywood actress Taraji P. Henson.
Adapted from Zimbabwean author Sue Nyathi’s 2012 novel of the same name, the series follows self-made CEO and banker Jonas Gomora (played by Mtshali), whose carefully built empire begins to unravel as the women in his life fight for his love, loyalty and fortune.
Alongside his wife Joyce Gomora (Gugu Gumede), the story also features his secret second wife Essie (Celeste Ntuli), mistress Matipa (Kwanele Mthethwa) and girlfriend Lindani (Luyanda Zwane).
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