Gogo Skhotheni’s Exit from Ubungoma Sends Shockwaves Through Spiritual Circles as Former Sangoma Thabiso Responds
In a move that has left many in shock and sparked deep conversations across South Africa, reality star and spiritual figure Gogo Skhotheni has officially announced that she is denouncing ubungoma — the traditional ancestral calling that once defined her public identity.
The decision, made public through a heartfelt video and social media posts, marks a major turning point in her journey and has drawn both support and backlash from traditional healing communities and fans alike.
Known for her strong presence in spiritual spaces, Gogo Skhotheni rose to fame not only through her reality show but also as a practicing sangoma, guiding others through ancestral connections, rituals, and healing.
For years, she stood as a powerful symbol of embracing one’s calling, often sharing personal experiences and spiritual lessons with her followers.
Her departure from the path of ubungoma, therefore, comes as both a surprise and a point of confusion for many who once looked to her as a spiritual guide.
In her announcement, Gogo Skhotheni did not speak with anger or rejection, but with what she called “clarity, growth, and personal transformation.She explained that while her journey began with accepting her ancestral gift, it eventually reached a point where she no longer felt aligned with the practices and responsibilities that came with it.
“I’m not running away from the calling,” she said.
“I’m acknowledging that I’ve evolved.I’ve changed.
And it’s time to step into a different version of myself.
She also emphasized that her choice was not based on public pressure or scandal, but a deeply personal decision guided by what she believes is a new spiritual direction.
“I’m not denouncing my ancestors,” she clarified.
“I’m simply no longer practicing ubungoma in the way I used to.
The announcement immediately triggered a wave of mixed reactions online.
Some traditionalists expressed disappointment, questioning whether a sangoma can truly “leave” the path once initiated.
In many cultural contexts, the ancestral calling is seen as lifelong — not something that can be paused or abandoned.
Others applauded her bravery, noting that spiritual journeys are complex, deeply personal, and not always linear.
“She’s allowed to grow,” one fan wrote on Twitter.
“You can honor your ancestors and still redefine your identity.
Adding another layer to the conversation was the reaction of former sangoma and actor Thabiso Mokhethi, who himself walked away from the calling years ago.
In a candid Instagram Live, Thabiso responded to Gogo Skhotheni’s decision with empathy and support.
“I know what it feels like to carry the weight of a calling, especially when you’re also in the public eye,” he said.
“It’s not easy to make that kind of decision, especially when people put you on a pedestal.
Thabiso shared that when he left the sangoma path, he also faced judgment and was accused of being “lost” or “disrespecting tradition.But he insisted that true spiritual alignment must come from within.
“You can’t serve something you no longer resonate with just because people expect you to,” he said.
“It’s okay to change.It’s okay to shift.
He went on to commend Gogo Skhotheni for owning her truth and showing others that spiritual evolution is not betrayal — it’s growth.
“Her courage might free others who are afraid to speak up,” he added.
“There are more people silently questioning their paths than we realize.
While some elders and traditional practitioners remain skeptical, the younger generation of spiritual seekers seem more open to Gogo’s perspective.
Many have echoed the sentiment that one’s relationship with the ancestral realm is not always tied to public ritual or formal practice.
For them, spirituality is evolving — just like everything else.
Meanwhile, Gogo Skhotheni has indicated that she plans to focus more on business, family, and personal development.
She will still speak about spirituality, but not as a practicing sangoma.
Instead, she wants to explore what she calls “a broader spiritual consciousness” that includes mental health, emotional healing, and self-empowerment.
“This isn’t the end,” she said.
“It’s a new chapter.I’m still walking with spirit.
Just not in the same way.Her words have clearly struck a chord with many.
Across social platforms, messages of support continue to pour in, with fans praising her transparency and strength.
It’s clear that while her decision may be controversial in some circles, it has also opened the door to a much-needed conversation about spiritual flexibility, authenticity, and the right to change.
As the dust settles, one thing is certain: Gogo Skhotheni has always walked her path fearlessly — and this moment is no different.
Whether in ritual or in transition, she remains a woman boldly choosing her truth, no matter how many traditions she leaves behind.