Beloved South African television personality Sade Giliberti, a familiar face to many from her early 2000s stint on YoTV, has officially tied the knot with her long-term partner, Coco Chan. The couple exchanged vows in a picturesque ceremony held in Portugal, a celebration described by Giliberti as "magical."
The intimate wedding, attended by fewer than 50 close friends and family, took place yesterday. Giliberti shared glimpses of the joyous occasion on social media, prompting a flurry of positive comments and requests for more photos from her fans. The couple’s decision for a small, personal celebration allowed them to focus on cherishing intimate moments with their loved ones.
Giliberti, who has since relocated to Europe, expressed her overwhelming joy in a heartfelt Instagram post: “Still can’t believe how magical our little day turned out! We poured all our love into the personal touches and cherished moments with everyone. We wore matching blazers, because why not!”
She further expressed her gratitude to those who travelled from across the globe to share in their special day: “Thank you to each and every person for making it out here and for making our micro-celebration so wonderful. The villa was flowing with love, joy and togetherness. Honestly, a 12/10! Can we do it all over again?”
The intimate setting, filled with love and laughter, created an unforgettable experience for the couple and their guests.
The ceremony was officiated by another familiar face from Giliberti's YoTV days, Hulisani Ravele, adding a touch of nostalgia to the already heartwarming event. Ravele, who worked alongside Giliberti on the popular children’s show, joined many others in congratulating the newlyweds on social media. The inclusion of Ravele further highlights the enduring connections forged during Giliberti's time on YoTV.
Giliberti’s journey since her time on YoTV has been one of remarkable growth and self-discovery. She has established herself not only as a successful presenter and television personality but also as a prominent LGBTQ+ activist. Her openness about her sexuality and her journey of self-acceptance has made her a significant role model for many in South Africa and beyond.
In a 2018 interview with MambaOnline, a leading South African LGBTQ+ publication, Giliberti spoke candidly about coming out and living authentically: “For me, I’ve always been proud of who I am. I didn’t feel the need to hide it, and I’ve been lucky to have family and friends who supported me. I know that’s not the case for everyone, which is why it’s important for people like us to be visible and give others the courage to live their truth.”
This commitment to authenticity and visibility has resonated deeply with her fans, solidifying her position as a respected figure within the LGBTQ+ community and beyond. Her personal journey and her advocacy work have made her a source of inspiration for many young people.
Giliberti and Coco announced their engagement in 2023, sparking excitement and anticipation among their fans. The wedding, finally arriving, was a testament to their enduring love and commitment. The intimate and personal nature of the celebration perfectly reflected the couple’s values and their desire to share this special moment with their closest loved ones. The event was a beautiful culmination of their journey together, signifying a new chapter in their lives.
Giliberti’s wedding joins a growing list of former YoTV stars who have recently tied the knot, including Karabo Ntshweng, Sipho Sidwell Ngwenya, and Dr Musa Mthombeni. This trend reflects not only the enduring popularity of the show but also the successful careers and personal lives of its former presenters. Giliberti’s wedding is a celebration of love, personal growth, and the enduring power of connection, both personal and professional.
