Linda Mtoba on Motherhood and How Her Daughter Inspired Her to Compete on ‘The Masked Singer SA’

Celebrated actress and media personality Linda Mtoba is beaming with pride after competing on ‘The Masked Singer South Africa‘ Season 3. The mom of one left both detectives and viewers stunned when she was unveiled as Lady Monster, proving that she is a woman of many talents. While many know her for her acting career, Linda showed a different side of herself on the popular singing competition.

Linda rose to fame in 2016 when she landed the role of Zama Ngwenya on Isibaya, quickly becoming one of South Africa’s most loved television stars. Since then, she has appeared in several productions while building a successful career as an actress, media personality and digital creator. 

The proud mom to six-year-old Beanie recently caught up with BabyYumYum, where she reflected on her ‘Masked Singer SA’ journey and opened up about motherhood. From revealing how her daughter inspired her to take part in the show to sharing the joys and lessons of raising her little girl, Linda gave us an intimate glimpse into the role she cherishes most.

What drew you to The Masked Singer South Africa and why did you say yes to the project?

I said yes because our babies love the show so much and so do we. I thought, what better way to immerse myself in their world and be part of something they enjoy than by becoming a mask myself? That was the reason behind it.

How was your overall experience on the show?

It was so much fun. I think there’s something freeing about being on stage and not being yourself, because it allows you to actually be yourself in a different way. That’s what I loved most about the experience.

How did you choose the songs you performed?

I honestly chose songs that my daughter likes and that our kids enjoy. I was hoping they might get a little hint here and there that it could be me behind the mask.

Were you worried that someone might figure out it was you?

I was petrified! I really thought Sithelo or somebody would be able to guess me. But I think the voice distortion helped quite a bit.

You went up against Mosquito during your time on the show. What did you think of his performance and the competition he brought?

Mosquito is so good! When you’re off the show and watching everyone else, you realise, “Wow, I really had some tough competition.” I really enjoy Mosquito, and I actually have a guess in my mind about who it could be.

How has motherhood changed the way you view life and success?

Motherhood changed the way I view life and success because I’m not doing it for myself anymore. I have someone who will one day look back at the things I’ve achieved and accomplished and have a different starting point in life because of that. My daughter gets to know me through so much of what I do because a lot of my life is documented. It’s made me want to be a better person and someone she can be proud of.

What is your favourite part of parenting Beanie?

It’s fun. I think it’s amazing to experience life for the first time with someone. Everything is brand new for her and I get to witness all those firsts. That’s something I really cherish.

What life lessons does she teach you every day?

She teaches me patience, definitely. She also teaches me to enjoy life more and live in the moment. Recently we were at a restaurant and she asked me to dance with her. It made me realise that I’ve taught her it’s okay to be herself and be liberated. Now she’s teaching me the same thing in return.

Balancing motherhood and a successful career can be challenging. How do you ensure you spend quality time with your daughter?

She comes first, career second. My family will always come first. Spending time with her is actually much easier for me than spending time away from work. I’ve made a conscious decision to prioritise being a mom.

Has Beanie reached any recent milestones that have made you especially proud as a mother?

She’s in choir now and has been practising her singing at home. But the funniest thing happened recently, she cried on cue! I couldn’t believe it. I remember thinking, “Is she going to be an actress?” It was definitely one of those moments that left me intrigued and proud at the same time.

What message would you like to share with everyone who has supported your career and followed your journey?

I would definitely say thank you for supporting my career and for being by my side as I continue to grow. I think it’s important to acknowledge the people who have grown with you. People met me as a girl full of dreams, and now I’m a full-blown mom as well. It’s beautiful to have people who have witnessed the things you’ve achieved. Thank you for loving me through it all.

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