IT’S GOING TO BE HECTIC!

Khanya Mkangisa is back in Isidingo as Aphiwe – and, she reveals, viewers can look forward to a juicy love triangle!

SHE grew up a shy young girl and claims she’s still in her shell – although that’s not easy to believe when you meet the sexy young woman who, despite the nippy Johannesburg weather, looks anything but reserved in a burgundy minidress and sky-high heels that add height to her petite frame.

But it’s true, Khanya Mkangisa insists. “I’m really quiet and I love my own space. I don’t know if it’s because I’m an only child and am used to doing stuff alone but I’m not out there.

“I suppose people find it hard to believe because when I’m presenting and out covering events I always have to be bubbly. I guess people just don’t know the real me.”

What we do know, though, is that the 28-year-old actress is carving out quite a career for herself on the entertainment scene – especially now she’s returned to popular SABC3 soapie Isidingo.

Khanya is reprising her role as fun-loving Aphiwe Nzimande, the character she played in a cameo last year. Fans of The Deep will recall her as the younger sister of Skhumbuzo Nzimande (played by hunky Sisa Hewana) and she’s back for a major dose of fullon soapie drama.

“Aphiwe’s storyline is really hectic,” she says, chatting to us at Isidingo’s Sasani Studios in Highlands North, Johannesburg.

“New characters have been introduced and, without revealing too much, there’s going to be a love triangle.”

As we talk, Khanya is often dragged away by passersby who want a chat and she’s unfailingly polite and friendly to them all. It’s clearly why she has a reputation as the approachable girl next door – a persona that has helped her amass quite a fan base.

Yet despite her increasing celebrity status, Khanya has managed to stay grounded. Fame isn’t what drives her, she says – it’s her passion for her profession that keeps her trying harder and harder as she climbs the A-list ladder.

“I just want to be known for my craft. I don’t want people to be like, ‘Oh ja, she’s everywhere – but what does she do?’

“It’s important for me to maintain my humility by remembering the reasons why I got into acting. The craft comes first – everything else can follow.” ABOVE and RIGHT: Actress and presenter Khanya Mkangisa says her passion for her profession, not a desire for fame, is what drives her.