Award-winning singer, actress, and reality TV star Kelly Khumalo has officially stepped into the realm of traditional healing. At a time when several public figures are distancing themselves from their spiritual callings, Kelly is moving in the opposite direction — boldly embracing her path as a sangoma.
The 40-year-old star, best known for hit songs like Empini and Asine, took to social media on 1 May to announce the launch of her Divine Healing Sanctuary, a spiritual and healing service aimed at providing traditional consultations and holistic care. Her announcement came as a surprise to some, especially amidst a recent trend of public figures renouncing their roles as traditional healers.
Notably, reality TV star and traditional healer Gogo Skhotheni, real name Tumi Motsoeneng, publicly announced on 2 April 2025 that she had stepped away from her practice. “I’m officially making this video to announce that I’m no longer a traditional healer. I’m no longer a sangoma. I’m no longer doing consultations,” she said in a video message that sparked widespread debate.
Former Generations actor Thabiso Mokhethi also weighed in on the issue, encouraging those who feel misaligned with the path to step away. He even suggested that many have been spiritually liberated from various dark practices. “Even people who were practising proper witchcraft, and some involved in Satanism, have reached out to me and found freedom through God,” he stated.
Despite this growing movement, Kelly Khumalo remains resolute in her spiritual journey. She views her role as a calling, not a trend, and has invited the public to engage in healing through her newly launched sanctuary. Her services include umsamo alignment (a spiritual connection to one’s ancestry), bloodline healing, breaking generational curses, healing childhood traumas, and spiritual cleansing baths.
“This is one hard journey with no map,” Kelly said. “All you do is trust in God and your angels or guides to help you navigate. I may not have all the answers. I just know that God trusts me with this.”
Kelly’s commitment to her journey is rooted in her own personal experiences. She underwent initiation in 2024, completing the traditional process required to become a certified healer. Although she did not immediately begin consultations, she now feels ready to serve the community with the knowledge and power she has gained.
Reflecting on her path, she shared, “These days, I prefer speaking my mind and sharing. I went through initiation last year, and what I’ve learnt is that ‘intwaso’ [the spiritual awakening process] doesn’t end.”
Her move is both bold and deeply personal, signaling a new chapter in her life — one that merges her spiritual and public identities. For those seeking healing, Kelly Khumalo’s sanctuary now stands open, offering guidance, restoration, and a spiritual journey led by one of South Africa’s most dynamic entertainers.