Thapelo Mokoena shares his experience dining with David Beckham and Maria Sharapova in New York

South Africa’s own Thapelo Mokoena was recently in New York as Stella Artois hosted its latest edition of ‘Let’s Do Dinner’.

The renowned actor and entrepreneur took his seat at the invitation-only table, joining the likes of David Beckham and Maria Sharapova at what has been dubbed “the world’s most fascinating dinner.” 

Speaking to IOL, Mokoena shared that the dinner was a really wonderful experience. “Sitting in a room where you feel like your dreams belong or your version of what you foresee for yourself lives and is valid. 

“It was such an affirming room on so many levels, so many amazing people to identify with.”

With ‘Let’s Do Dinner’, Stella Artois aims to celebrate the timeless ritual of gathering around the table. 

Mokoena, a father to two boys who are soccer players, revealed that they were the ones who were excited about their father’s trip to New York.

“Them being avid footballers and football lovers and, them playing for a football club that's quite reputable at their young ages. The one thing that they have is knowledge of football and the history of football.

“They couldn't believe that I was flying to America to have dinner with David Beckham and just that alone was such a thing for them, such an achievement for them. 

“Being there was so much more than just meeting David. It was more about living for these kids who just can't understand and can't believe how that could be possible. It was really, really special.”

Mokoena revealed that he didn’t converse for long with Beckham, but when he met him, he said, “Big up on everything that you're doing and keep doing what you're doing.”

“Throughout the night, I just really saw a person who was so down to earth and quite humorous on so many levels.”

As an African kid on a mission, Mokoena found what Beckham shared about his life story with the room to be relatable.

“He doesn't try too hard; he just lives his life. He's built it for his kids and his family and he loves his wife, and more than anything, he's quite clear about who he is. No territory, whether it's the UK or it's America, can change who he is and that I took with me.”

The “Fatal Seducation” actor also got to speak to the former tennis player Sharapova for a brief second, who also had plenty to say about his outfit. Mokoena was dressed by Milton Langa’s Uniform brand.

IOL