Omuhle Gela on motherhood, career, and finding balance: “My daughter has grounded me”

Actress and entrepreneur Omuhle Gela is gracefully navigating the demands of fame, business, and motherhood.

The former Muvhango and The Queen star opened up about her journey in an interview with Sunday World, describing how becoming a mother completely transformed her outlook on life and success.

“Motherhood has truly been the most beautiful and humbling experience of my life,” she said.

“It’s changed everything; how I move, what I prioritize, and even how I define success.”

Known for her unstoppable drive and work ethic, Omuhle shared that her approach to life and work shifted after welcoming her daughter.

“Before I became a mom, I was always chasing the next big thing. But now, I move differently. My daughter has grounded me. I no longer work just for myself, I work to build something lasting for her.”

While balancing her career and family can be challenging, Omuhle admits it’s a daily act of grace and intention.

“The most rewarding part is watching my daughter grow up knowing her mom is doing what she loves. The hardest part is the guilt when I’m away working and wish I could be home with her. But I remind myself that everything I do is for her future.”

For Omuhle, balance is less about perfection and more about presence.

“When I’m on set, I give it my all. When I’m with my daughter, my phone goes off. And when I need to recharge, I take time for myself because I can’t pour from an empty cup.”

That realization inspired her latest initiative, Moms Day Off, an event she created to give mothers a chance to rest, reconnect, and rejuvenate.

“I had one of those days where I just felt drained, like I was showing up for everyone except myself. That’s when the idea for Moms Day Off came to me, a day for mothers to pause, breathe, and just be.”

She hopes the event will grow into a national movement that celebrates and uplifts moms across South Africa.

“It’s not just about pampering; it’s about reminding moms that taking time off isn’t selfish, it’s necessary. When we rest, we come back stronger.”

Beyond her on-screen success, Omuhle is also thriving as a businesswoman, having built a luxury beauty brand that showcases her creative flair.

“Entrepreneurship has taught me patience and resilience. Nothing happens overnight. You have to be okay with failing forward and learning as you go.”

Her message to other young mothers chasing their dreams is simple but powerful: “Start where you are and don’t wait for the perfect moment, it doesn’t exist. Even small steps matter. Consistency will take you further than perfection. I’m building an example for my daughter. I want her to know that women can dream big, work hard, and still be loving, present moms.”

Reflecting on how motherhood has reshaped her life, Omuhle concluded, “My daughter has made me softer, but also stronger. Everything I do now has purpose. She is my reason, my peace, and my biggest motivation.”