Local talent lands job on Netflix series
GROWING up in the rural area of KwaMthethwa never deterred Vukani Gumede (26) from his dream of working in TV.
And now, after working on a number of local productions, he's excited to have landed the part as second assistant director on an upcoming Netflix series.
“Growing up I used to imitate characters because I loved acting. I used to crack jokes at, school and even at home they would give me a platform,” recalls Gumede.
After matriculating from Sibonokuhle
High School, he attended Ikabayi Performing Art Academy and Creative Art.
It was in 2018 that he had a breakthrough, landing the role as an extra on SABC's
Uzalo, before playing Dr Bhengu on eTV's Durban Gen.
“After completing my matric, my family did not believe me when I said I wanted to do acting, but I followed my dream and today they are proud of me. Even my neighbours call me Dr Bhengu and they ask me to assist their children,” he said.
He went on to work on a number of productions including, Giant Film Production, Kandasamys: The Baby, Rayka, and Umkhokha.
He is now working on a Netflix series as second assistant director. His duties entail organising read-throughs and director’s rehearsals, supervising cast members to make sure they are in make-up, in wardrobe, and on set when needed. “I am also responsible for discussing which character parts are cast and which are extras or walk-in roles with the director, producer, and casting director as well as to check in with mak-eup, wardrobe, and catering to make sure they have everything they need.
"I am also responsible for supervising extras, including handling requisitions, release forms, and other documents,” he said.
Gumede explained that he has registered two acting agencies where he trains actors as extras for now. “I provide free training to assist talented local and emerging actors. Being an extra is just a starting point, and it gives them exposure because it does not pay much, it just pays for bus fare.
“My wish is to ensure that all our local talent is nurtured at home and to ensure that people stop relocating to Gauteng to look for greener pastures.
“I have to be honest, this industry needs talented people and people who respect others. "Some of the actors become bigheaded, especially the main characters of the play and this happens when they realise that they have a lot of fans,” he said.