With a career spanning almost two decades, Pearl has etched her name in the chronicles of the SA entertainment industry
Pearl Modiadie is a household name, but behind the fame lies a woman deeply rooted in family values. “I am Nthabiseng first and foremost,” she says. “My family values dictate how I live my life.” Pearl, or Nthabi to her family, is the quintessential girl’s girl, a hopeful romantic who cherishes her family name. Humility is her cornerstone, passed down through generations, and she wears it with an air of grace.
A GLITTERING CAREER
Pearl’s career has been a remarkable odyssey, spanning 17 years in the entertainment industry. In her own words, “I count my blessings whenever I think about my career growth.” She acknowledges the unpredictable nature of an industry where tomorrow isn’t promised. While her journey has seen incredible highs, it has also witnessed lows.
Born in Tembisa, her ascent in the television industry began after she matriculated, when she graced the screens as a presenter on e-TV’s youth programme Craz-e from 2007. It wasn’t long thereafter that her unique journey presented her with a series of promising opportunities.
Having studied media and journalism at Rosebank College, she entered the dynamic world of radio. In 2009, at the age of 21, she debuted as a DJ on Gauteng’s youth radio station YFM, swiftly gaining a devoted following. Her star continued to rise, and in 2012 Pearl became the host of The Jumpstart, the weekend breakfast show; then, three years later, she joined Metro FM, where she took the helm of the lunch show with co-host Thomas Msengana.
Perhaps it was inevitable, but Pearl soon found herself back on the small screen, this time as an actor after landing a role in Scandal! She has since presented and produced the popular music show Zaziwa and become a regular on Expresso, SABC3’s morning show.
“I guess the big challenge for me has been figuring out how to reinvent the solid brand that I’ve built for years – and whether or not it does, in fact, need reinvention, or to just naturally progress to the next stage,” she says. “It is helping me dig deep into understanding who I am right now and what it is that I truly want.”
THE ROLE OF A LIFETIME
Her personal life has also seen significant milestones. In September 2020, she gave birth to a baby boy named Lewatle Olivier. Motherhood has been quite a transformative chapter in her life, enriching her perspective on family and personal growth. The journey through motherhood has illuminated the importance of family and stability, and she has learned to appreciate her support system, especially the role of her sisters.
Having lost her own mother when she was just 19 years old, becoming a mother herself has been poignant. “My mom’s passing was significant, and the loss only hit me a few years after her passing, which made me realise I hadn’t dealt with it,” she recalls.
She reveals that she often wonders what life would be like with her mother still around. “I find comfort knowing that she’s my guardian angel, and I know she’s always with me. I fear dying and leaving my baby behind, so I wonder how hard it must’ve been for her to accept this fate and having to leave her three daughters behind. It’s painful for me to think about it.” However, the loss of her mother revealed a reservoir of resilience within her, a strength and independence she hadn’t known she possessed.
As a mother now, she describes co-parenting as a test of two individuals. “This is where I have experienced the biggest personal growth because I truly believe it takes two very mature individuals, who are willing to put aside the disappointment and hurt of a romantic relationship not working out, to fully immerse themselves in loving a precious child that they decided to bring into this world,” she says.
“It hasn’t always been a walk in the park, but out of it came a friendship built on the same values and a happy child with two happy parents making the most of the situation, albeit unconventional.” This approach has taught her patience, as well as discernment in prioritising what adds value to her life and a commitment to her son’s happiness.
As a mother now, she describes co-parenting as a test of two individuals. “This is where I have experienced the biggest personal growth because I truly believe it takes two very mature individuals, who are willing to put aside the disappointment and hurt of a romantic relationship not working out, to fully immerse themselves in loving a precious child that they decided to bring into this world,” she says.
“It hasn’t always been a walk in the park, but out of it came a friendship built on the same values and a happy child with two happy parents making the most of the situation, albeit unconventional.” This approach has taught her patience, as well as discernment in prioritising what adds value to her life and a commitment to her son’s happiness.
LOOKING TO THE FUTURE
Pearl’s journey has been marked by relentless pursuit of her dreams and aspirations. She recently ventured into the world of acting again, a daring shift from her successful career as a radio and TV host. “I’ve always wanted to pursue acting on a bigger scale,” she says.
"When I auditioned and got my role on BET’s Redemption, I completely immersed myself in it so I could do justice to the craft and afford it the respect it deserves,” she says. And the reviews have been amazing. In the telenovela, set in a mega church, she plays Yvonne Zikode, a devoted partner who will stop at nothing to see her husband succeed – for her own benefit.
“This has been completely transformative for me. I pushed my limits to see how much further I can stretch. I proved to myself that it’s never too late to start something new in any career, no matter what you’re known for.”
Her advice to anyone looking to make a fresh start is: “Do it! It’s better to know than to never try. When you’re presented with an opportunity, embrace it. If it doesn’t work out, be proud that you tried. If it does… well, hello, new you!”
It’s no surprise Pearl is a strong advocate of New Year’s resolutions. “A new year feels like we’re all hitting the reset button and getting another chance to get it right.” Her approach to goal setting is to write it down and believe in its eventual fulfilment.
As she envisions her future, Pearl eagerly anticipates new opportunities in TV production. She is also looking forward to watching her son grow and reach new milestones. Travel, too, is on the agenda. For Pearl, it’s not just a passion; it’s inspiration. She says exploring different cultures and places has broadened her perspective on life, reminding her that the world is vast and every decision can lead to a different life.
Quickfire Q&A
Your guilty pleasure?
Cappuccino – and watching dating reality TV shows.
Favourite book?
Many! I can’t choose one right now.
What do you know for sure?
If it is to be, it is up to me (in terms of work).
Always in your bag?
Cuticle oil and lots of receipts.
Two fashion items you can’t live without?
Good undergarments and eyewear.
A quote that resonates with you in tough times?
It’s not a quote, it’s an action – and the action is to pray through every season of my life.
Playlist on repeat?
Anything 90s RnB.
Hobby you find particularly fulfilling?
Painting. I’m not great at it but it is therapeutic.
Dream destinations on your bucket list?
Iceland and the Amalfi Coast in Italy.
Your personality or character in one word?
Resilient.
Words by: Koketso Mashika
Photography: Zhann Solomons
HOW PEARL MODIADIE'S ETCHED A NAME FOR HERSELF
Reviewed by Amaarah
on
December 22, 2023
Rating:
Reviewed by Amaarah
on
December 22, 2023
Rating:
