Papa Joseph Fume (born January 21, 1999) also known by his musical name
ACTN (pronounced as “Action”), is a South African artist, writer, director,
and musician. Born at Natalspruit Hospital in Katlehong, East Rand, he was
raised in Thokoza. His father, Oupa Fume, worked occasionally as an
electrician, while his mother, Catherine (née Zulu), is employed as a cleaner in a
storage company in Wadeville, Germiston. He is currently based in
Johannesburg and Pretoria.
Fume attended Thembalethu Primary School and Ponego High School. After
initially matriculating in 2016 without passing, he worked for several years
before rewriting his exams. In 2023, he enrolled at Tshwane University of
Technology to pursue a Diploma in Performing Arts, majoring in directing,
with an expected graduation in 2026.
Expanding his artistic reach, Papa has established himself in theatre and film.
He portrayed MaWilla in a production of Itsoseng at Tshwane University of
Technology and performed as an ensemble member in Ngoma The Musical at
the ACTions Festival 2024. In film, he appeared in The Skin That Houses Me,
a short film directed by Mohlape Mayaga.
Beyond acting, Fume is a skilled stage director, stage manager, rapper, singer,
and scriptwriter. Known for his innovative approach and commitment to
artistic excellence, he aims to leave a lasting impact on the entertainment
