Feel the love in book of gratitude from Ndara
EVERY TIME I THOUGHT OF GIVING UP, I’D MEET A FAN OR GET A MESSAGE THAT REINVIGORATED ME, ACTRESS SAYS It’s a collection of messages from fans, colleagues and supporters.
ward-winning actress Vatiswa Ndara recently launched her book, I am … Because of You, in Pretoria, inviting fans to come and meet her at the hotel, following a successful Johannesburg launch, hosted by actress and musician Lerato Mvelase.
The book is a collection of messages from fans, colleagues and supporters of the award-winning thespian.
It includes a foreword by multi-award-winning musician Sibongile Khumalo and personal messages from producer Roberta Durrant and fellow actress Zikhona Sodlaka. A touching essay from her brother, Mzukisi Ndara, gives insights into her family life. Vatiswa has the final word, detailing the ups-and-downs of her life in the entertainment industry at the end.
A woman whom the public hasn’t fully known outside of the stellar performances she puts in for every role she gets, Vatiswa is one of the few people who has put together a book of pure gratitude, acknowledging the fans and pillars of her impressive career.
Amid the many labels the industry may impose on her, she is determined to spread love and gratitude to the people who matter the most.
“There is a perception of who I am in the public and this book is not to change any perceptions, but to say thank you to the people who recognise and see me.
“To the people who celebrate my art, my work, me as a person and those who secretly root for me. I am grateful. This book is from my heart to yours,” said the actress. A recipient of the first Mzansi Viewer’s Choice Best Actress award, which is voted for by the public, Ndara wants to use the book to raise awareness of the stroke epidemic, after her mother, Princess, had one. “I soon realised how short life is and how important it is to live a healthy life. A percentage of this book’s proceeds will go into the Princess Page Foundation, where we aim to educate and advocate for people battling strokes,” she explained. Vatiswa is known for her jaw-dropping roles in shows such as Igazi, Generations, Home Affairs, Harvest and Nomzamo among many others. A seasoned radio personality and bigscreen actress, Ndara is currently working on an exciting film, which she cannot wait for her loyal fans to see. “My career in acting and broadcasting has not been easy. There’s been one obstacle after the other and moments of despair, but every time I thought of giving up, I would meet a fan or receive a message that reinvigorated me and reminded me of my purpose. For that I am truly grateful,” she said.