In the past, relationships where women dated younger men were often seen as unconventional. However, times have changed, and modern society celebrates love in all its forms. Many South African female celebrities have shown that age is just a number as long as the relationship brings happiness. Here’s a look at 10 female celebs who have embraced relationships with younger partners.

1. DJ Zinhle

South African DJ, producer, and entrepreneur DJ Zinhle has proven herself to be a romantic who isn’t afraid to love younger men. The 38-year-old was in an on-and-off relationship with the late rapper AKA, who was four years her junior.

The pair shared a beautiful daughter, Kairo. After their split in 2019, DJ Zinhle found love again with Murdah Bongz of Black Motion. The 35-year-old musician is three years younger than her, but the couple seems happier than ever.

2. Zodwa Wabantu

Zodwa Wabantu, a popular dancer and socialite, has built a reputation for dating significantly younger men. Born in 1985, Zodwa dated Ntobeko Linda, who was eight years her junior, even going so far as to pay lobola for him.

After that relationship ended, she dated Vusi Buthelezi, 11 years her junior. Her current boyfriend, Olefile Mpudi, is only 22 years old, making Zodwa 14 years older than him. Despite public criticism, Zodwa remains unapologetically herself.

3. Bonang Matheba

Bonang Matheba, a celebrated TV presenter and businesswoman, is another star who dated a younger man. Bonang was romantically linked to AKA, who is a year younger than her. Their relationship made headlines, particularly because it overlapped with AKA’s previous relationship with DJ Zinhle. The two dated from 2015 to 2017, and while it ended, Bonang continues to thrive in her career.

4. Simphiwe Ngema

Simphiwe Ngema found love again after the tragic loss of her husband, Dumi Masilela, in 2017. The actress started dating Zimbabwean model and TV personality Tino Chinyani, who is five years younger than her. The couple welcomed a son in 2020, but their relationship ended amicably in 2021. They remain committed co-parents to their child.

5. Khanyi Mbau

Actress and TV personality Khanyi Mbau is known for her bold and unapologetic approach to life. She made headlines when she started dating Zimbabwean businessman Kudzai Mushonga, who is six years her junior. Their relationship has had its share of ups and downs, including a much-publicized incident where Khanyi left Kudzai in Dubai without notice. Despite the drama, the couple appears to share a deep bond.

6. Nompilo Maphumulo

Nompilo Maphumulo, best known for her role as Nosipho in Uzalo, is dating actor and director Sandile Dlamini. The actress, who is 39 years old, has been in a relationship with Sandile, who is 28, for over three years. Their 11-year age gap has not affected their love, and they continue to support each other’s careers.

7. Stephanie Sandows

Stephanie Sandows and her husband Hungani Ndlovu are one of South Africa’s most beloved celebrity couples. Both actors rose to fame for their roles on Scandal. Stephanie, 31, is four years older than Hungani, 27. Married in 2019, the couple frequently shares their love story on social media, proving that age is no barrier to a strong and happy marriage.

8. Jessica Nkosi

Jessica Nkosi, a popular South African actress, has had an on-again, off-again relationship with actor TK Dlamini. Jessica, 32, is a year older than TK. The two share a daughter and, despite past challenges—including allegations of infidelity—they’ve reconciled and are raising their child together.

9. Bontle Modiselle

Bontle Modiselle, an actress and media personality, is married to rapper Ricardo “Priddy Ugly” Moloi. Bontle, 31, is two years older than Priddy Ugly, 29. Together for over a decade, the couple tied the knot in 2019 and have a child together. Their relationship is often celebrated as a model of love and partnership.

10. Nonhle Ndala

Nonhle Ndala, a TV presenter and producer, was married to Arthur Bolton, who was seven years younger than her. They wed in 2013 when Nonhle was 31, and Arthur was 24. However, their marriage lasted only about a year before they parted ways. Nonhle has since moved on and continues to focus on her career.

These celebrity couples challenge societal norms and show that love transcends age. Whether their relationships ended or are still thriving, they remind us that true happiness comes from being with someone who understands and supports you, regardless of age.