Desmond began performing at around 12 years old, starting in community theatre. He later developed into a versatile theatrical performer, appearing in productions such as Jozi Jozi, Peto, Street Sisters, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Julius Caesar and The Fantastics. His acting career also moved successfully into international film and television. One of his best-known film appearances is Hotel Rwanda (2004), where he played Dube alongside Don Cheadle, Nick Nolte and Sophie Okonedo.