Kagiso Rakosa became a household name in South Africa after lighting up the screen as Sharon on Generations. Now, the actress and radio presenter reflects on her journey through fame, finding her voice, and why Women’s Month should mean more.
With her striking on-screen presence and undeniable charisma, actress and radio personality Kagiso Rakosa burst into the entertainment scene with her breakout role on Generations in 2004. She portrayed Sharon, a strong-willed magazine editor and wife to Samuel (played by Thabiso Mokhethi), captivating viewers across the country.
In a candid catch-up with Sowetan LIVE, Rakosa shares memories from her early acting days, her time away from the spotlight, and how she’s carving out her space in radio — all while championing women’s voices in a world that hasn’t always been kind.
“I’ve Been Blessed”: Life Now
“I’ve been OK, I’ve been blessed,” Rakosa says, radiating gratitude. “Especially during Women’s Month, my team and I have been very busy with work. I’m healthy and there’s nothing to complain about.”
Remembering Sharon: The Generations Era
The early 2000s were a defining period for Rakosa. Reflecting on the instant fame Generations brought her, she recalls how social media — then still in its early stages — began buzzing about her.
“That moment when people started noticing me on screen was crazy. The next day, I was driving to work and shocked to hear how many radio stations were talking about it,” she says.
Behind the scenes, she made use of the show’s gym facilities to stay in shape and bring authenticity to her role. “People looked at the whole package — body, make-up, wardrobe, and how you portrayed the character. Huge respect to the team who made sure the character was well put together.”
Despite the rising attention, she stayed grounded. “I didn’t take it to heart. I’m not the type to rave about such things. I just appreciated the love.”
From Background Extra to Leading Role
Rakosa’s journey into acting was almost accidental. While studying BCom Accounting in university, a friend introduced her to a modelling agency. Just three days in, she was auditioning for Generations.
“I started as a background actor,” she recalls. “I was given a script and told to say just one line: ‘Yes, sir.’ I was so nervous.”
She also credits the late Menzi Ngubane for mentoring her. “He taught me how to carry myself, learn lines, and give my best on screen. May his precious soul rest in peace.”
She also made a call for industry change: “Production companies must normalise calling people ‘background actors’ instead of ‘extras’. Without them, there is no show.”
Social Media Then vs Now: A Changing Narrative
Rakosa reflected on how the media landscape has shifted — particularly in how women are perceived.
“Back in the day, audiences were warm and positive. Now, women are viewed through a lens that often leads to serious issues like gender-based violence and femicide,” she says.
“It’s sad that women must be cautious about how they dress, even when simply commuting. You never know how you’ll be received, even when you’re just appreciating yourself.”
On Women’s Month: “It Starts With Us”
She believes the true meaning of Women’s Month has been diluted.
“Often we choose to party instead of reflecting. We must look back so future generations understand why August matters. I hope one day we’ll come together and make it meaningful. It starts with us.”
Taking on Magaeng: A New Chapter
Rakosa recently appeared in Magaeng as a police officer — a role that fans labelled her “comeback,” though she views it differently.
“I wouldn’t call it a comeback. It was more like reuniting with my colleagues,” she says. “Playing a character outside my comfort zone was a challenge, but I loved working with Khabonina and Sdumo Mtshali. The experience was amazing.”
Disappearing from the Spotlight: “I Needed to Heal”
Before Magaeng, Rakosa kept a low profile — not out of failure, but self-preservation.
“I didn’t believe in marketing myself on social media,” she explains. “I took some time out because the role of Sharon came so unexpectedly. I had no time to breathe and developed social anxiety. The break was necessary.”
During that break, she discovered a new talent: radio.
Finding Her Voice in Radio
Though many may not believe it, Rakosa considers herself shy. “People always told me I was good at speaking, even when I didn’t believe it myself,” she says.
That encouragement led her to shadow radio personality Rashid Kay at 1Africa Radio TV. He quickly noticed her potential, and she eventually joined the team as managing director.
Final Thoughts: Celebrate Women Every Day
For Rakosa, celebrating women shouldn’t be confined to one month.
“Every day is a blessing. Whether good or bad, each day matters. Women should be celebrated daily.”
As she continues to evolve in her career, Rakosa remains a powerful voice — not only in entertainment, but in championing the rights and recognition of women across South Africa.
