Living the big screen dream

‘I HAVE always loved performing since a young age, but it was one day back in the 90s while watching Sarafina that I knew this was what I wanted to do for the rest of my life.’

So says Zululander Mthandeni Mbambo, who recently saw his dream become a reality after being cast for the upcoming South African movie Skorokoro.

Currently shooting in Johannesburg, Mthandeni is working under the watchful eye of internationally acclaimed director Darrell Roodt, famous for his films Cry the Beloved Country and Sarafina.

After making it to the top 15, Mthandeni was the only contestant from this area.

‘I was never selected as a top five finalist, but I soon received a call that would change my life forever.’

‘By God’s grace and mercy I was selected as one of the cast members.’

Living the dream

Mthandeni’s journey to the screen was a result of determination and the will to keep moving forward.

Growing up on the streets of eSikhawini, there was a lack of arts infrastructure and he felt his dream may never see the light of day.

‘After completing my matric at Tisand Technical High School I enrolled at the then Mangosuthu Technikon to do mechanical engineering,’ says Mthandeni.

But the acting bug persisted and he soon found himself dropping out to pursue his dream.

Following this brave decision, he enrolled at the Mbongeni Ngema Art Academy of Performing Arts, taking acting, music, dance and arts management classes.

Many years of successful performances followed, including taking part in the Sarafina Broadway musical, working with choreographer Somizi Mhlongo and later became the founder and Director of Mthapoqa Productions.

‘My motivation lies in the community who look up to me and are inspired by what I have achieved.’

‘Prayer has also been one of the elements that have kept me going, because with God all things are possible.’

DID YOU KNOW?

Like our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter.

For news straight to your phone invite us:

BBM – 25A0BF5A or 2B7993C8