Petronella Tshuma is a dynamic South African actress renowned for her compelling performances in film and television, most notably as Pearl Genaro in e.TV’s Rhythm City. A multi-award-winning talent, she has captivated audiences with her versatility, emotional depth, and dedication to storytelling.
Petronella Tshuma Biography
| Real Name | Petronella Nontsikelelo Tshuma |
| Famous As | Actress |
| Nationality | South African |
| Religion | Christian |
| Education | BTEC in Acting, South West Academy of Dramatic Arts (SWADA), United Kingdom |
| Height | 5 feet 5 inches (1.65 meters) |
| Parents | Mr. and Mrs. Tshuma |
| Spouse | None |
| Children | Sipho and Camagu |
| Relationship | Single |
Early Life and Education
Petronella Nontsikelelo Tshuma (born on January 13, 1990, 36 years old) is from Francistown, Botswana. She was raised by her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Tshuma. At the age of five, she moved with her family to South Africa, settling in the vibrant neighbourhood of Hillbrow, Johannesburg.
She attended Filton High School, where she majored in Drama and delivered a standout performance as Carmen in the musical Fame. From 2006 to 2008, she pursued formal training at the South West Academy of Dramatic Arts (SWADA), earning a BTEC in Acting.
This education honed her craft and prepared her for a professional career. Returning to South Africa, Petronella’s early experiences in diverse cultural settings and her formal training laid a strong foundation for her rise in the entertainment industry.
Career
Petronella Tshuma’s journey to stardom began in 2011 when she became a top 10 finalist on SABC1’s talent search competition Class Act.
Although she was the first female contestant eliminated, her talent shone through, landing her a breakthrough role as Ruby, an adopted teenager, on the show.TV’s Scandal! in November 2011. This debut role showcased her ability to portray complex characters with authenticity, earning her early recognition and acclaim.
In 2013, Petronella’s career soared with her Role as Nolita in the critically acclaimed film Of Good Report, which premiered at the Durban International Film Festival.
Her powerful performance earned her the Most Promising Actor award at the 10th Africa Movie Academy Awards and a Golden Horn nomination for Best Actress at the South African Film and Television Awards (SAFTAs).
Petronella Tshuma continued to build her filmography with roles in Avenged (2013), Hatchet Hour (2016), The Tokoloshe (2018), and While You Weren’t Looking, many of which are available on Netflix. Her latest film, Clean Job, was set for release on Amazon Prime in 2023.
On television, Petronella’s portrayal of Pearl Genaro in Rhythm City (2015–2021) became her signature role, captivating audiences with her depiction of a fierce and determined character seeking justice for her father’s death.
Her performance earned her a SAFTA for Best Actress in a Soap in 2021 and a nomination for Best Supporting Actress.
Petronella Tshuma also appeared in series such as 90 Plein Street, Sokhulu & Partners, Mzansi Love: Kasi Style, Isono, and Goodmen, showcasing her versatility across various genres.
Despite the emotional challenges of Rhythm City’s cancellation in 2021, Petronella’s resilience and talent continue to drive her career forward.
Filmography:
- Scandal! (2011) – Ruby
- Mzansi Love: Kasi Style (2013) – Keneiloe
- Of Good Report (2013) – Nolita
- Avenged (2013) – Supporting Role
- 90 Plein Street (2015) – Supporting Role
- Sokhulu & Partners (2015) – Supporting Role
- Rhythm City (2015–2021) – Pearl Genaro
- Hatchet Hour (2016) – Supporting Role
- The Tokoloshe (2018) – Supporting Role
- Isono (2020) – Supporting Role
Awards and Nominations
- 2014: Most Promising Actor, Africa Movie Academy Awards (Of Good Report) – Winner
- 2014: Golden Horn, Best Actress in a Leading Role (Of Good Report) – Nominated
- 2021: SAFTA, Best Supporting Actress in a Soap (Rhythm City) – Nominated
- 2021: SAFTA, Best Actress in a Soap (Rhythm City) – Winner
Social Media
Instagram Handle: @petronella_tshuma
Personal Life
Petronella Tshuma is a devoted single mother to her two sons, Sipho (born 2008) and Camagu (born 2018), whom she cherishes deeply. Becoming a mother at 18, she has described motherhood as a transformative journey, one in which she grows alongside her children.
After separating from Camagu’s father in 2020, Petronella has been candid about the emotional challenges of single parenthood, including a breakdown that impacted her work on Rhythm City. Her openness about self-discovery and healing resonates with fans, as she strives to balance her career and motherhood.
A proud Christian, Petronella Tshuma has spoken about navigating online trolling and negativity, particularly in 2025 when she was unfairly linked to her best friend Stephanie Sandows’ divorce from Hungani Ndlovu.
Net Worth
Petronella Tshuma is a celebrated South African actress with an estimated net worth of $150,000. Her income is primarily derived from her acting roles in film and television, including high-profile projects like Rhythm City and Of Good Report.
