Exclusive ‘Motherhood Shouldn’t Be Viewed Through the Lens of Disability’: Actress and New Mom Ontiretse Radipabe

A few days ago, Ontiretse surprised fans by sharing a photo of her daughter on social media. While she chose not to reveal the baby’s face, the post marked the first time she publicly confirmed that she had given birth, delighting followers who had been eagerly following her pregnancy journey.

Known for winning over audiences with her roles in productions such as The Black Door and Isitha: The Enemy, Ontiretse has continued to build a name for herself in the entertainment industry while using her platform to champion representation and inclusivity.

Throughout her pregnancy, she also shared joyful glimpses of her journey on social media, including viral dance videos and updates on her growing baby bump, inviting followers to celebrate the experience with her every step. Now, with her daughter finally in her arms, she is embracing motherhood with the same confidence, grace and positivity that have endeared her to fans.

In this exclusive interview with BabyYumYum, Ontiretse opens up about pregnancy, motherhood, navigating life as a woman living with dwarfism, the support system that carried her through this journey and the powerful message she hopes to share with other women.

Congratulations on welcoming your baby girl! How are you feeling as you embrace motherhood and what has this new chapter been like for you?

Motherhood is a beautiful and life-changing experience. It comes with so many emotions, lessons and moments that you cannot fully prepare yourself for. I’m embracing every moment, learning as I go and discovering a new side of myself. It’s a journey that has taught me even more about love, patience and strength.

Has motherhood always been something you envisioned for your future? Can you recall the moment you realised it was a journey you wanted to embark on?

How was your pregnancy experience? Were there any unexpected challenges or particularly beautiful moments that stood out for you?

My pregnancy journey was lovely. I enjoyed it and couldn’t wait to meet my baby girl. One of the most beautiful things was knowing that I was carrying a little life and watching my body go through such an incredible transformation. There were moments that challenged me, but there were also moments that reminded me just how special this journey is.

Who was your biggest source of support throughout your pregnancy? In what ways did they show up for you?

My pregnancy journey was a little different because my father was the one who stood by me and took care of me throughout the pregnancy. He played a very important role in making sure I was supported, cared for and comfortable during that time.

His love and presence meant everything to me and I will forever appreciate the way he showed up for me. It reminded me that support doesn’t always come from where people expect it; sometimes, family becomes your greatest strength. I’m truly grateful to have had my father by my side during such a special chapter of my life.

As a woman living with dwarfism, were there additional medical considerations or support you needed before and during pregnancy, delivery and recovery?

Living with dwarfism means there are certain health considerations that need to be understood on an individual basis. It was important for me to seek care at a private hospital and consult a private doctor because we are not all the same and that made the experience easier for me.

I believe women with dwarfism deserve access to healthcare professionals who understand their individual needs and approach their pregnancies with respect, knowledge and compassion. Every woman deserves to feel heard, respected and properly supported throughout pregnancy and childbirth.

You shared glimpses of your pregnancy journey on social media. What made you decide to open up and allow people to experience this special chapter with you?

I believe in using my platform to share meaningful parts of my life, especially experiences that can encourage and inspire others. I also understand that representation matters. Sometimes, seeing someone who looks like you experience something you have always dreamed of can give you hope and confidence.

Did you encounter any insensitive comments, misconceptions or unsolicited opinions about your pregnancy and your ability to become a mother?

Yes, conversations around disability and motherhood can sometimes come with insensitive comments and assumptions. People often feel entitled to question what they don’t understand.

I think one of the biggest misconceptions is that having dwarfism somehow makes a woman less capable of experiencing motherhood. I would like people to understand that women with disabilities have the same dreams, emotions and desires as any other women. We deserve to be celebrated as mothers rather than constantly having to justify our choices or abilities.

How has being bullied because of your height shaped you and what would you like people to understand about dwarfism and motherhood?

My experiences with bullying have played a significant role in shaping the woman I am today. They taught me resilience, self-acceptance and the importance of knowing my worth, even when the world tries to make me feel otherwise.

I have learned that my height does not determine my capabilities, my dreams or the kind of life I deserve to live. Women living with dwarfism are women first. We fall in love, build relationships, pursue careers and become mothers. I want people to look beyond our physical appearance and recognise our individuality, abilities and humanity.

Do you think society still has outdated views about people with disabilities becoming parents? What needs to change?

Absolutely. I think society still has a long way to go when it comes to understanding disability and parenthood. There is often an assumption that people with disabilities cannot raise children or provide the same love, care and support as anyone else.

What needs to change is the way people perceive disability. We need more representation, better education and more inclusive healthcare services. Instead of making assumptions about someone’s abilities based on their physical appearance, society needs to give people the opportunity to define themselves. Motherhood should not be viewed through the lens of disability but through the individual woman’s experience, circumstances and choices.

What advice would you give young women with dwarfism who dream of love, marriage, motherhood and pursuing their ambitions?

I would tell them never to allow society’s expectations to become the boundaries of their dreams. You are worthy of love. You are worthy of marriage, motherhood, success and happiness. Your height or disability does not take away your right to experience beautiful things in life.

There will always be people who question your abilities or make assumptions about what you can and cannot do. Do not let their opinions become your reality. Learn to love yourself, believe in your abilities and surround yourself with people who see your worth. Most importantly, remember that your journey does not have to look like anyone else’s. Take your time, follow your dreams and give yourself permission to live the life you want. Your disability is part of your story, but it is not the entirety of who you are.