5 MINUTES

WITH

Vafa

Naraghi

BY VENECIA VALENTINE BY VENECIA VALENTINE

As he takes his most personal stand-up show, Becoming South African, across the country, Vafa Naraghi talks identity, creative influences, ambition, and the next chapter of his comedy career.

HOW HAS YOUR BACKGROUND SHAPED YOUR COMEDIC VOICE? Growing up in Mahikeng with Iranian parents meant I was constantly navigating different cultures, languages, and perspectives. I never really felt as though I fitted into just one box, and that became the foundation of my comedy. My stories come from real experiences of trying to find where I belong, and I think that’ s something many South Africans can relate to. Comedy has become my way of celebrating our differences while reminding us how much we have in common.

94 INBOUND SA / SEPTEMBER 2026