BEHIND THE CHARACTER
We’ve met Khwezi, but we also wanted to learn more about the Durban-born actress behind the character and her blossoming career. While she may be well-known to Mzansi Magic fans, her face is most likely not that familiar to the free-TV viewers. Isibaya was, after all, her big break, having previously made an appearance as Tandzile in the first season of the short-lived e.tv series Isipho (it was abruptly cancelled after just 100 episodes in 2020).
Tell us more about your acting career – how did it all start? My acting career started when I was in matric. One day I was asked to come join a local drama group from KwaMashu. I was recruited mainly because I could sing, but I soon discovered that I wasn’t so bad at this acting thing. Our group would enter local performing competitions and perform on weekends. In between that and studying Economic Management at UNISA, I have had a few small roles but Isibaya was my first big TV role. You’re also a singer? Where can we find your music? One thing about me is that I’m a perfectionist – call it my professional weakness – so, I’m still working on my music that I plan to release early next year.
Have you always been drawn towards the arts? Growing up, not at all. But I remember the first time I performed at the Playhouse Theatre in Durban and received a standing ovation. That was the day that confirmed that this was the path I’m going to take. Not even my parents could stop me!
Who were some of your industry mentors and what did you learn from them? Coming to Johannesburg, I didn’t really know anyone. So I didn’t really have mentors to advise me. But I do take advice from my trusted colleagues and ensuring that I don’t forget what I was taught back home. I strive to grow my skills as a performer and hope to one day become an international brand and performer.
What other projects are you currently working on? There isn’t much I can reveal at the moment, apart from releasing some music. But people can expect to learn more about my other talents that I’ve never shared before, and also keep your eyes locked on Skeem Saam screens!
Tell us one fact about yourself that might surprise fans. Whenever I visit my grandmother in the village back in Durban, I still prefer to wash my laundry in the river with my sister. I really enjoy it – it’s calming.