Bonko Khoza On Playing Mqhele, Following His Passion And Upcoming Projects

Bonginkosi ‘Bonko’ Khoza / Actor & Voice-Over Artist

What sparked the love for acting?

I have always been into acting, since primary school I loved plays but never took it seriously. I went to art school and studied graphic design, I dreamt of being an overall visual artist. After 2 years of trying that, I dropped out to figure out my life. I asked myself if I was doing things because the status quo says so or if I was going to focus on what brings me joy. I decided that I wanted to do something I enjoy and would do for the rest of my life. So I took the decision to study Drama at The Market Theatre Laboratory.

You play ‘Mqhele’ on Showmax’s ‘The Wife’, how would you describe the character?

He is a complex character that is heavily bothered by demons in his head. He has unresolved childhood traumas that cause him to act and react in a certain way. Other than that, he is a sweet guy.

You are an extremely talented actor. How do you prepare yourself for a role?

My preparation starts at the audition level. I’ll read my script and research the character biography. I get to know the character and start looking at costumes and play scenes out. If I get the role, it’s a progression of building the character.

What would you change about the South African entertainment industry?

The industry doesn’t exist on its own, it doesn’t function without the audience. If anything, I would like to change the audience. I wish South Africa would open up access to more global content because it is part of a global market. The audience can then push the industry towards something different. The audience needs to start playing with their appetite and choosing different types of content.

That one moment in your career so far that you’ll never forget?

I spent a day with Benedict Cumberbatch in 2020. We did a scene together on a film called The Mauritanian. My scene was initially for his character. The casting director told me to keep pushing and keep my head up because it may be overwhelming. We did the scene in Cape Town and it dawned on me in that moment that he was just a colleague and I had to get it together. From that moment, we started talking and getting to know each other. That was a special time.

Is there anyone that you call your role model/inspiration?

Mahershala Ali, I love the way he handles his career and brand. He keeps it very much acting-centric even if he does work for brands. He has won two Oscars and I’m pretty sure when he’s not acting he’s probably spending time with his family and relaxing.

What is the importance of following your passion?

Life has a price to pay, you’re not here for free. The system will try and put you in a place where you are most comfortable. When you’re most comfortable, you’ve got nothing to complain about. But things like passion come from the inside, it is who you are, it’s an expression of your true self. Retrospection and bravery are important where passion is involved.

’13 Weeks To Find Mr Right’ is your upcoming project, are you working on other things at the moment?

I have already wrapped 13 Weeks To Find Mr Right. I have now started working on a Disney animation, I’m also shooting a Hollywood film and in talks with various directors but I can’t say much about that right now. Actively working on The Wife and voice overs.

Any advice for aspiring actors?

Study first, treat the art with respect and it will pay you back with longevity and substance. Put in the work and the time. Believe in your dreams, trust in God and don’t forget to pray.

Images by Asanele Shaun

Follow Bonko!

Instagram: @bonkokhoza

Twitter: @BonkoKhoza

Facebook: @bonkokhoza

–Bridgette Makhela

Lawrence Maleka On Playing Zolani And How He Plans On Impacting The Industry

Lawrence Maleka / Actor & Entrepreneur

Projects you are currently working on?

I’ve never intentionally put word out of what I’m busy with. I want my work to speak for itself and that’s how I’ve maneuvered my career so far.

Let’s talk The River, how did you land the role of Zolani?

I have had engagements with MNet for a while now, having d done Clash of The Choirs and All Access Mzansi. They were trying to get me on a drama series and they’d send me scripts but nothing resonated with me. I then got called in to audition for Cobra’s role initially but everything happens as it should as that character is now played by Presley Chweneyagae. The writer’s then wrote a part for me that I read and loved, that’s how the character Zolani was born.

What was the highlight of your childhood?

A primary school play I was in, The Jungle Book. I landed a role of a pigeon and had one line throughout the whole show. The hall was full of students and parents. When I said my line, the crowd exploded! That was the moment I knew I like attention. Then throughout the rest of the play, I’m flying in and out of scenes I wasn’t supposed to be in. That was when the seed was planted.

How do you wish to impact the South African entertainment industry?

Through credibility, authenticity, breaking barriers and altering stereotypes. I’ve always wanted to be known for my craft and my work. I want to be “Mr sexy” with my shirt on. Careers such as Meryl Streep’s and Denzel Washington’s are what I aspire to, their work comes before their physical appearance and that’s amazing.

Describe a typical day for you?

My day starts at 3:30AM. I wake up, pray and meditate and have a quick workout session. I then take a shower and get ready for work. I’m usually on set at 6AM, then by 7AM/8AM my team gives me updates on what I’m doing for the rest of the week. Then I’m on set and get my fencing lessons done afterwards. Once I get home I catch up on emails then spend time with my family, loved ones and do the boyfriend Olympics thing, lol.

Your favourite career moment so far?

Everything I work on is my best “thing”. Every job you’ve seen me do was intentional. I’ve always wanted to carve out a certain path out to maintain a career I am proud of. Actually, the character Zolani is a celebration of my brother and friend Mzwandile, it’s also about the culture and people I grew up around ekasi. People resonate with shows they see themselves in.

Something you’ve learnt while working during a pandemic?

I’m proud of the decisions I’ve made throughout my career and this made the pandemic slightly easier. On the business front we did however suffer some losses. In the greater scheme of things, it’s all about preparation, the more prepared you are, the more you become ready to face anything. When the pandemic hit, I was able to identify opportunities within it over the tragedies.

Any final closing words of wisdom for your fans?

There’s no manual to life, everyone is figuring it out. There’s more than enough room for all of us and the more we collaborate, it makes us better as a people and we can leave something behind for the next generation. No one is coming to save you but don’t discount the goodness of people. Try to be the best version of yourself because the best person to meet is you, this will resonate with other people. Be selfish with your time and the things you want for yourself and don’t forget to experience joy in moments.

Follow Lawrence!

Instagram: @sirlawrencemaleka

Twitter: @Lawrence_Maleka

Facebook: @LawrenceMaleka

–Bridgette Makhela

Pearl Shongwe On Her Journey In The Broadcast Industry And What’s Still To Come

Pearl Shongwe / 31 / TV & Radio News Anchor / Host of the most impactful youth leadership show on the continent, One Day Leader / Voice Over Artist / MC & Facilitator

How did you mould your way into the broadcast industry?

From winning a radio talent search competition in 2010, I’ve come a long way.  It’s taken a lot of hard work, dedication, networking, failure, rejection and a lot of patience! I’ve tried not to plan too much in my journey, I have set my eye on things I have wanted to accomplish and worked steadily from there. I follow my gut and I allow myself time to grow into whatever role I’m in. Being authentically me and not allowing myself to succumb to pressure has helped me stay true to my cause. It has not been easy and I’m grateful that my journey hasn’t been the smoothest because my character and who I am now is better for it. A lot of the skills that I possess have had to be self-taught, which is one of the things I remain profoundly proud of!

 

Your schedule is probably demanding, how do you keep focused?

There is a lot of demand on my time but with everything I do, my secret is to talk myself into staying present, so that I don’t miss out on any experience and any opportunity to be grateful. It’s so easy to fall into ‘auto-pilot’ mode and so it’s become imperative for me to take it one show at a time, one voice recording at a time, one shoot at a time, etc and be fully present so that I can deliver the best standard of work possible. I have been working 7 days a week for several years now and yes, it gets exhausting. It is especially difficult because I miss a lot of family and friends time but I think I’m getting better at managing that now, especially this year. I have learnt to manage my time more efficiently.  That also comes with sacrifices like saying “no” to paying gigs!

 

What have you learnt on your journey in the industry so far?

That it’s so important to do things your way, in your own time and pace. People will try and mould you into their own ideas of who you are and what you should be doing, and when. It’s not necessary to live up to anyone else’s expectations except your own. Rejection is part of the game. Deal with it. Do your best, audition, get better, take notes, practice and perfect it! Do what you can, until you can do what you want. Also, never forget why you started and always pay it forward.

Biggest moment you’ve had?

There have been so many! I’m gushing just thinking about a few of them! It’s impossible to single out just one. My most stand out Television moments include what was the very first time I was booked as a field reporter at the 2014 Carling Cup, making my debut on SABC’s longest running breakfast show, ‘Morning Live’, and working alongside Kass Naidoo on the Rio 2016 Paralympic show. Also, signing off at the end of my first news bulletin on Metro FM was a massive moment of sheer elation, joy, and satisfaction. I had dreamt about it for a very long time.

 

Look up to any one in the industry?

There are so many female broadcasters that I have immense respect for; Kass Naidoo, Ayanda Allie Payne, Azania Mosaka, Carol Bouwer, Oprah Winfrey, Lara Baldeserra, Bonang Matheba, and Gorja Calvin-Smith are at the top of my list but I also have a deep sense of admiration for women working behind the scenes in television including Desiree Markgraaff and Mmabatho Montsho who are such A-graders!

 

What’s the end goal after doing your part?

There’s a lot that I still want to achieve but I think one of my ultimate dreams is to own a TV and Film school in the township. Our children are so talented and need to be supported if they are passionate about the arts. I always think of what Oprah has done for our country to advance education and to provide better opportunities for young girl children here, it’s something that I think everyone should aspire to do; to contribute towards positively changing the trajectory of the future of our children. Our success is not our own, it is meant to build others up and to create a better reality for those who come after us! I also have a secret dream of being a diplomat and then retire in the KwaZulu Natal Midlands at 45!

Working on anything else in 2018 you’d like to share?

Not much. I lost my dad in January this year and I think my biggest commitment has been to try and focus on my healing journey and being there for my family.  It’s been a challenging time and I’ve just been showing up for all the current projects I have running without wanting to put myself under any pressure. I am an extremely ambitious woman, and though it’s been a little weird trying to allow myself to slow down, I’m actually okay with it. I am not complacent however and something exciting is definitely brewing for 2019, but I won’t say too much about it for now. All I can say is that I’m banking on it being a game-changer for me.

 

Talent, consistency and hard work, what do these things mean to you in your everyday work life?

Talent is not enough, consistency in itself is hard work and is tough to maintain and well, hard work pays off! Cliché but, it works! Whether you believe in working hard or smart – either way, work must be put in!

 

Strong, fearless females are usually seen as intimidating in society, how do you deal with that stigma within your work space?

I don’t think about it and so there’s nothing to deal with. I stand tall, go about my business and get the job done. I have no emotional capacity to deal with negativity or to try and nurse egos or even notice who is feeling what about my position. It’s simply a non-factor. There’s work to be done and I’m pretty good at shutting out the noise. Men or even women who feel intimidated should rather focus on their own journeys. Life’s too short to try and keep up with anyone else. Pearl Shongwe is busy working…are you?!

Follow Pearl!

Instagram: @pearlshongwe

Twitter: @Pearl_Shongwe

Facebook: Pearl Shongwe

 

–Bridgette Makhela

Tino Chinyani On The Modelling Industry And Opportunities It Has Brought His Way

Tinotenda Chinyani / 23 / TV Presenter / Model / Actor

How did you get your break into the industry?

A friend of mine, Donald, suggested that I try out modelling. I then did a photo shoot, then got signed to Boss Models…the rest is history!

Has modelling always been in the cards for you?

I didn’t always want to be a model, instead I always wanted to be an athlete. Basketball was always the sport I wanted to play. My first year at varsity I got signed to a modelling agency and that’s when the journey began.

You’re the main guy in Thabsie’s new music video ‘African Queen’ featuring JR, did you have to audition for the role?

No I didn’t, they called me, having seen me on the Channel O Top 5 show. They contacted me the day before the shoot and invited me to go to Mpumalanga and shoot the music video.

All the titles that you hold, how do you find some balance?

Finding balance requires knowing when to say no because it’s very easy to get burnt out. You have to value your own time and take some time to rest.

What’s your typical day like?

Call time could be anytime between 08:30 or 09:30. You could be on your feet the whole day, you have to be smiling the whole time and getting the work done. I’ve never been a fan of sleeping anyway so as soon as the sun’s up I’m good to go.

Would you say the industry you’re in is tough, and why?

The modelling industry is very blunt. Castings and auditions are very unapologetic when it comes to what they want. At the same time it’s also a beautiful industry when it comes to the places you travel to and the people you meet. It’s also tricky when it comes to getting booked, payment could sometimes take from 30 to 90 days. Clients you deal with are also different compared to agencies. You can get taken advantage of if you’re not careful, you have to be very woke. You may look up to big names in the industry, but when you actually get to work with them, it turns out to be something very different. I am very thankful that I’m still young and doing what I love.

Who or what keeps you grounded?

My friends keep me grounded. I’m very personal with people who I keep in my space. My sister and mother also play a big role in keeping me grounded. I want people to see me years from now and still say that Tino has remained humble even after all the achievements, even if I was to take my career to an international level.

Money or Fame?

Money, definitely not the fame. You need to be financially secure. Go get your money, you didn’t go through all the hard work for nothing.

That one thing you can’t function without?

God.

You dress very well. How do you put an outfit together?

I love comfort, that is always key. I always ask myself “does it look good?” I’m not trying to be acknowledged for how I dress, but I’m also not trying to look terrible either. I always try to stand out within my simplicity.

How do you deal with all the attention?

People want you for who you are right now. The same people who were never even interested in you from way back. I evaluate it in the sense that no one really loves you out here, they only value you for what you do. There will always be distractions in whatever industry you’re in, I just try my best to always keep focused.

2017’s almost done, any exciting plans for next year?

2017’s been a really eye-opening year. I started doing Television for the first time and also further learning about the reality of the modelling industry. I got to meet and work with amazing people, it’s still surreal. Coming into 2018, you’re gonna see a hungrier me, chasing that cheque and a lot of things to come. I like keeping people in suspense so watch this space!

 

Follow Tino!

Instagram: @tino_chinyani263

Twitter: Tino_Chinyani09

Facebook: Tinotenda Chinyani

 

–Bridgette Makhela

 

 

Smash Afrika: That Energetic Kid Who Does Radio, TV, Content And MCing

Afrika Similo Mdutyulwa aka Smash Afrika / YFM 99.2 Breakfast Show Host / Ground Zero Presenter (YFM 99.2 Reality TV Show) / Content Producer for TV / MC / Energetic Kid

Tell me how Smash made his way into the business of Entertainment…

I was at a traffic light and I had placard that read…just kidding! It all started on campus radio, Kovsie FM (2009), then moved to VOW FM (2011). I got a call from a colleague at the time I was at VOW FM telling me that Tholi B, (presenter of Room 69 on YFM at the time), was looking for a co presenter for his new drive time show. Tholi B then gave me a call inviting me on Room 69 to audition (oh by the way I didn’t know I was auditioning). I was one of seven dudes he auditioned and that is how I got into the commercial radio space. In April 2012 I was at a commercial radio station, which I’m currently working at.

You’ve been handling the Breakfast show #SmashandGrab on YFM 99.2 this year, how’s that going so far?

We are trying something different and we are winning, if I can say so myself. Ask the listeners, they will tell you. We are vibing with a contacted young adult who is aware of how small and big the world is today. So the show is about sharing information, entertaining and grabbing the listener’s ear for three hours with matters from around the globe and Africa.

Do you always have a good 8-hour sleep?

Nope, I get an average of four hours. Weekends maybe but never on weekdays.

List the other stuff you’re involved in.

TV (presenter and content production)

MC (corporate gigs and events)

Dance (in my car and on the dance floor)

Production Company Owner: Afrika Respect Productions (we create content for clients’ needs)

Your career path, does it feel right?

I was born to do this, everything I do, I do because I love. You will never catch me doing things I don’t love. Plus, it never feels like work, but I’m anal about being a professional.

You’re always so full of energy (lol), is this the guy you’ve always been?

Yes.

Shades or sugar? Pick one…

Shades.

How do you plan on taking over the world?

By doing what I’ve been doing all these years, putting in the work and trying to be the best at what I do and who I am.

Any deep closing words for the kids?

Listen to the kids, even when you are the kid. Have yourself a cool shoe shine day and always try leave better than you found it.

 

Follow Smash!

Instagram: @smashafrika

Twitter: @smashafrika

Facebook: Smash Afrika

 

–Bridgette Makhela