We had the good fortune of connecting with Thatohatsi Mononyane and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Thatohatsi, what’s something about your industry that outsiders are probably unaware of?
One thing outsiders might not realize about the acting industry is how much rejection is involved. For every role you land, there are countless auditions where you don’t. It requires resilience, persistence, and a thick skin to keep going despite setbacks.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My art is rooted in storytelling—whether it’s through acting, modeling, or even my work behind the scenes in costume and fashion design. What sets me apart is my ability to connect deeply with a character and bring authenticity to every role I take on. I’m so excited about the premiere of Byron, the feature film I’m part of, which is currently in post-production. It’s been an incredible experience working with such a wonderful production team and talented cast, and I can’t wait for the world to see it.

Getting to where I am today hasn’t been easy, but every challenge has shaped me. Through it all, God has been my foundation. There were moments when doors closed, opportunities slipped away, and self-doubt crept in, but I held onto my faith, knowing that His timing is perfect. Every setback was a setup for something greater, and every rejection redirected me to where I was meant to be. From juggling auditions to navigating uncertainty, I’ve learned that persistence, patience, and trust in God’s plan are key.

I’m still in the process of looking for an agency to represent me, which is another important step in my professional journey, and I have faith that the right one will come along. What I want the world to know about me is that my work is about more than just being in front of a camera or on stage. It’s about telling stories that matter, inspiring others, and showing that with hard work, passion, and faith, you can turn your dreams into reality. God has placed this calling in my heart, and I’m walking this journey with Him, knowing that every role, every opportunity, and every challenge is part of His divine plan.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend was visiting, I’d plan a week packed with the best that Los Angeles has to offer—balancing iconic landmarks, hidden gems, and incredible food!

Day 1: Beach Day
We’d kick off the trip at the Santa Monica Pier—ride the Ferris wheel, enjoy the ocean breeze, and maybe rent bikes to cruise along the beach to Venice. Lunch would be fresh and healthy at Urth Caffé, where their green tea boba and avocado toast are a must-try.

Day 2: Hollywood Highlights
We’d explore the Hollywood Walk of Fame, take photos in front of the TCL Chinese Theatre, and visit the Hollywood Museum to dive into some film history. Afterward, we’d hike up to the Hollywood Sign for breathtaking views of the city. Dinner would be casual yet lively at The Grove Mall—perfect for shopping, eating, and people-watching.

Day 3: Museums & Arts
We’d spend the morning at The Getty—its art collection and architecture are stunning, and the views are unbeatable. In the afternoon, we’d head downtown to The Broad Museum for modern art and finish with dinner at a cool downtown rooftop spot like Perch.

Day 4: Griffith Observatory & Sunset
We’d start with a morning hike up Griffith Park to the Griffith Observatory. We’d explore the exhibits and stay for the panoramic views of LA. For lunch, we’d hit In-N-Out Burger for a true Californian experience.

Day 5: Day Trip to Malibu
We’d take a scenic drive along the Pacific Coast Highway to Malibu, soaking in the beautiful coastal vibes. Lunch at Malibu Farm, right on the pier, would be perfect. On the way back, we could stop for wine tasting in the Malibu Hills.

Day 6: Shopping & Relaxation
In the morning, we’d relax and enjoy a quiet breakfast at Urth Caffé. We’d spend the rest of the day at The Grove Mall for shopping, dining, and catching a movie. Dinner would be at a trendy spot like Catch LA for great food and atmosphere.

Day 7: Wrap-Up & Chill
To end the trip, we’d have a slow day revisiting favorites or relaxing at the beach. A farewell dinner at Nobu Malibu or another memorable spot would wrap up an unforgettable week.

LA is full of incredible people, vibrant places, and amazing energy, and I’d want my best friend to soak it all in!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My mom deserves the most credit for her unwavering love and support—she’s been my rock through everything. My family as a whole has always believed in me, and their encouragement keeps me going. I would also like to extend my appreciation to my teachers at The Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute LA. Their guidance, mentorship, and belief in my potential have been instrumental in shaping me as an artist and pushing me to grow. They’ve all been such a vital part of my journey.

Website: https://thatohatsim.my.canva.site/acting-website

Instagram: https://instagram.com/thato.hatsi

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@thatohatsimononyane

Other: Email: thatohatsi.m0320@gmail.com

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.