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Interview with E Rock

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Briefly talk to Me about E Rock and what he does as an artist?

E-Rock is a very talented independent recording artist, music producer and CEO of Stead-E-Rock Records with a long standing recording career that features 6 albums and 2 independent film credits.

You are the CEO | RECORDING ARTIST | MUSIC PRODUCER | ACTOR AND FILM MAKER, which one best describes you here, and why?

I will always consider myself to be a recording artist first. My passion is simply to create the best music I can. Although having complete control over my entire career requires me to take on several roles that are very essential and necessary to ensure that what I create will be properly represented. I learned the hard way that no one can represent me better than I can.

Which label are you affiliated to and/or with, and why?

I am very happy to currently be with Stead-E-Rock Records independently. Recording and distributing my music independently allows me creative control and freedom to be as original and I want without the constant pressure to sound like other artists and allows me to make better decisions regarding the direction of my recording career.

Which genre is your music, and why is that important to you?

My music genre is considered Hip Hop, Rap and R&B Soul. Staying true to the music that I like and my fans appreciate is very important to me. A lot of the artists that I am a fan of have gone away from the music that made them famous due to the playlist of current radio and so many changes in the recording industry that most have just decided to step away from the music industry all together leaving their fans to wonder whatever happened to them.

Can you talk me through your motivation and or inspiration in music, film, acting, and your role as a CEO!! What skills do you require to be able to perform all the roles effectively and successively?

My motivation is derived from my desire to inspire others to feel free to express themselves no matter what they may have experienced in the past or what they may be experiencing in their lives now. I endured a lot of things as child that caused me to make a lot of unwise choices that actually took a toll on me mentally, my career and on my life as an adult. I learned from those experiences and now I value a lot of things differently and I try to put those things in my music in hopes that they may help others dealing with some of the same things now.

I am an Actor with a few film credits with lots of aspiration to do more. My schedule is always very full with so many projects but I continue to go to auditions whenever I get a chance. My main role as CEO of Stead-E-Rock Records is to overlook the daily operations of the record label including Artist management and Promotions. Time management is very important and essential to insure the label is run successfully.

Can you talk to me about :

  • “#YELLOWDOPEBOY”, what influenced the title and/or the name?

One night I was at a club when I ran into a friend who I thought didn’t recognize me and I was surprised when they said “Everybody recognize yo’ Yellow ass!” I laughed but I used that brief conversation as inspiration for “Yellow Dope Boy!”

  • “IF I WANT 2” MUSIC VIDEO NOW!, what is the message about here or what are you communicating with the listeners here?

“If I Want 2” was inspired by my aggressive Aries mindset. I truly feel that the biggest difference in successful people and unsuccessful people is that successful people, once they set their minds to do something will find a way to get it done no matter what!

Who are you collaborating with and what do you stand to benefit in that collaboration?

I am currently collaborating with a few new up and coming Music Producers and Artists with the intentions of building a solid production team.

Who are your target audience and/or listeners? Do you think you are able to reach them through your music?  How do you get your music to them?

My target audience is my incredibly loyal fans and followers, old and new that have been supporting my music career for many years. I have been very successful at reaching them with my music via social media.

When did you start singing/songwriting, and performing?

 I started my music career at a very young age.

What is it that you expect the listeners/ audiences to get from the song? What does the song(s) communicate about your personal life as a musician as most musicians uses songs to express themselves?

I always expect my listeners to get the experience of life from my unique perspective and how I view the world based on my personal experiences. My songs communicate how I feel about a lot of the things that are happening in the world. I have been considered a representative for the Underdog that has to fight for everything, nothing comes easy.

Are there any musicians who inspire you? What qualities do you admire about them?

The artists that inspire me the most are the late 2PAC, KANYE, JLO, and BEYONCE. I admire their individual journeys to success, each one is different but they all represent hard work, focus, courage and believing in themselves.

Describe your worst performance. What did you learn from this experience?

My worst performance was not really my worst but I learned that it is very important to give my all to my performance no matter how big the venue or how I may be feeling about other things that have nothing to do with the performance. I just focus on giving my fans a great show.

Which qualities do you think make a great artist?

I have learned that talent alone does not make you a great artist. There are no short cuts to be great, ambition, perseverance, focus are very important qualities to have for anyone wanting to become a great artist.

What is your advice to the aspiring artists?

My advice to aspiring artists is to have fun experimenting with different styles and different genres of music. Focus on your personal experiences that make you unique. Be different, but also focus on the everyday things that we deal with that we all have in common, that is what will makes you relatable with your present and future fans.

Nelly B, CEO @Nelly Records Labels & Digital Recording Studios

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This week we have had the opportunity (this time) to interact with one of the best and unique Musician of our time who hails from Isuada Owo, Ondo State in Nigeria. He is currently based in Lagos, Nigeria, but he is always travelling around the world. Our artist is affectionately known in music circles as Nelly B, whereas his real name is OKE NURENI ABIODUN. He earned his stage name (Nelly B) from his classmates who likened him to an American rapper – Nelly, because he sang and dresses like him.

What is in a name, “Nelly B”? Our musician is known as Nelly, from which he added the “suffix” B, to make it more representational, BABA, which means “Nelly “the father”. Interestingly Nelly B appears to us to be a proud father who is rooted in his YORUBA culture. The title and or name, BABA, means a father and has reference to cultural connection which suggest that men are fathers.

Nelly B is a Singer, Songwriter, Music Producer in addition of been the CEO of Nelly Records Label. He is a multi-skilled musician whose roles includes among others been a singer, songwriter, music producer and CEO of Nelly Records Labels and recording studios. He loves singing and that he was born in the family of musicians. “I was born in the family of musicians, my late dad was a musician, and that is evident enough that music run in my blood”, said Nelly B. Even though he appears to be doing or gifted in other areas of the arts his passion in music cannot be described in words.from which he has invested most of his time, resources and energy (to become effective and efficient) as a musicin with passion in music.

His dedication, commitment and love for music has enabled him to establish Nelly Records Labels & Digital Recording Studios, which he has been a CEO for over ten (10) years. Nelly B’s creative work is unique in that he initiated and collaborated with twenty (20) artists (musicians) from different countries to create his Masterpiece album titled “BIGGER THAN THE HEAD MASTER”. When asked about the choices and the decisions which led him to consider collaboration with other artists from different walks of life he said, “I just wanted to make history and spread love with (my) music all over the world”. The initiative took me two (2) full years to complete because of its nature and the different challenges which came about working with different people with different tastes and preferences.

“I have enjoyed every moment of the project as it presented me with the opportunity to learn and appreciate the diverse skills and personalities of other musicians from around the globe”, said Nelly B. At the end he conceded that working on the project was not easy as there was too much disappointments by artists who promised but fails to deliver. This album “Bigger than the Head Master” is done collaboratively with men and women (good singers and rappers) who are serious and committed to their trade (creativity).

Nell B describes self-love as what motivate and “keeps him going when the going gets tough”!! On the other hand Nelly B believes that there is no skill because music is a gift from God. Actually, you don’t need to force yourself to do whatever you don’t love, He suggested that people should do what they love based on their talents and gifting from God Almighty. In addition, Nelly B advised aspiring artists (musicians) to search for their talents at an early age in order for them to find their creative path and ultimately be able to produce good quality music.

Nelly B

(He/Him)  1st degree connection1st

Singer|Song writer|Music Producer| Entrepreneur| Ceo @nellyrecords Labels & Digital Recording Studios | follow @Nellybbeat Everywhere 📧booknellyb@gmail.com

Talks about #baddestsir

Multi-talented & Creative Samuel (EI Especial) Fakile,,,

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Quest: Briefly tell (talk to) Me about Samuel (EI Especial) Fakile with regard to who he is and what he does as a creative person?

Ans: Samuel El Especial is a multi-talented creative, who is passionate about audio and visual creative arts, he is a music producer and mixing engineer with over 4 year experience, A location sound recordist and a sound designer/editor for film/Tv, he has experience working on a few short films as a location mixer, dialogue editor, SFX & ambience editor, and final mixer. He is also skilled in video editing, graphics design & art illustration.

Quest: You are a MUSIC PRODUCER | SOUND DESIGNER FOR FILM/COMMERCIALS | GRAPHIC DESIGNER | CONTENT CREATOR | VIDEOGRAPHER | ART ILLUSTRATOR, which role best describes you here, and why?

Ans: I will say content creator best describes me, for as long as I can remember creating magical content is what I have always loved to do, back when I was a kid in high school, I started out creating my own comic books, I went from creating artworks and dived into music, started out as a gospel rap artiste before I added graphic design, music production, video editing & film sound to my skill set. I have always had and still have the zeal for creating content.

Quest: How did you get here or what made you to focus on the above (what you do as an artist) as since you have qualifications in Bsc. Ed in Accounting from Ekiti State University?

Ans:  Since I was young, I have always been passionate about audio & visual Arts, I studied accounting because it was what my parents wanted for me at the time. I worked for a little while as an accountant until I decided to go into the media production industry, because I’ll rather be doing what I am most passionate about which is media and entertainment.

Quest: Can you briefly tell us about your job (role) as a “Musician and an Actor” at the same time?

Ans: I’m a gospel rap artist, I was active as an artiste up till 2018/2019 before I fully decided to focus on production, mixing & sound for film and music, I still rap, it’s not that I have dropped it completely, it’s not just as much as I used to. As For Acting, that’s something new I’m exploring, everybody keeps saying I look like an actor when they see me on set & discover I’m into sound, so I decided to give it a try recently, I’ve done a couple of auditions but haven’t landed a role yet.

Quest: You are involved at Sound Haven Studios, at which level or role and for how long have you been with them?

Ans: I’m actually a co-founder of sound haven studio, I’m also the lead sound engineer/mixer at the studio and I have been active there since 2019.

Quest: Briefly talk to me about your new position as “A tale to Freedom” Short-Film at ZHI Media (Your role please!!!)

Ans: A tale to freedom is a short film I worked on which was shot on an iPhone, I collaborated with Zhi-Media to bring to life the journey of Chuks, a budding creative whose life and career choices seem to be a choice of everyone else but His own. I played the role of cinematographer, director and sound editor on this project.

Quest: It is good to hear that the film which you created the audio/visuals and content is on YouTube and Instagram, what is the title of the film and when was it created?

Ans: The short films I’ve worked on which are now online are : Last Ride( A short film about human trafficking), A tale to freedom (the journey of Chuks, a budding creative whose life/career choices are decided by everyone else but him), Ogun (A short horror film about a spirit who haunts anyone that tries to take his inheritance), Stupid Finder( A Good Samaritan who returns lost/stolen items back to their owner), Clippers (A film about a barber who must choose between saving her shop & saving a stranger). There are others which are still to be completed, but these ones I listed are online currently. They were all created this year, except for the sound design of “A tale to freedom”, did that in 2021.

Quest: You are a Certified Music Producer, Sound Producer/Designer and Recordist for Film with multiple awards, can you take us through those awards and how it came to be that you won them (those AWARDS):

  • Excellence Award.
  • Ebony Life Award, and
  • Best Final Mix Award

Ans: When I finished from Ebony life creative academy, I was awarded with the “ Ebony life Excellence award in location sound and final mix” for my hard work and dedication during our final projects, I and my team did our best to get a good location sound from set which allowed the post production to go smoothly without us having to solve major issues in post-production, this gave me more chances to explore my creativity in post-production.

I was also awarded “Best Final Mix “ for the short film “ Stupid Finder”. I critically followed the due procedure and techniques when it came down to mixing all the film elements together and I also had a very good partner who was just as determined and dedicated as I am to the task when I finished from Ebony life creative academy, I was awarded with the “ Ebony life Excellence award in location sound and final mix” for my hard work and dedication during our final projects, I and my team did our best to get a good location sound from set which allowed the post production to go smoothly without us having to solve major issues in post-production, this gave me more chances to explore my creativity in post-production.

I was also awarded “Best Final Mix” for the short film “Stupid Finder”. I critically followed the due procedure and techniques when it came down to mixing all the film elements together and I also had a very good partner who was just as determined and dedicated as I am to the task.

Quest: Can you briefly give us summaries of the following films you worked on: (i) Last Ride (ii) Imperfectly Perfect?

Ans: Last Ride” is a film about human trafficking.  A young lady named Ani is kidnapped along with a group of girls, her loved one’s search for her with no knowledge of where she is, she tries to escape her captors before they send her to Italy for prostitution, but she was killed before that could happen. Imperfectly perfect is about two married couples with a not so perfect marriage, but they are both committed to making it work because they love each other.

Quest: Can you talk to me about your motivation and or inspiration in what keeps you going? What skills do one requires to be able to work effectively and efficiently in all the roles you occupied?

Ans: The passion & love I have for what I do is what keeps me going, there’s nothing else I’d rather be doing. I always tell people, there’s nothing better than doing what you love to do, “If you truly love what you do you will be able to face and overcome the challenges that come along the way”.

To be able to work as a film sound editor you should be skilled in the use of Protools, you should be creative, have knowledge of the techniques and procedures used in sound recording/production & mixing for film. As a music producer you should know & understand music theory, know how to use a digital audio work station to create music, as a mixing engineer for music & film you should have a critical listening ear for different sound frequencies, have good knowledge of the different processors used in making the audio better & to sit well in the mix, be knowledgeable about room acoustics and so on. Oh! and again, be creative. As a graphic designer you should be skilled in the use of apps like photoshop, Canvas etc. As a Videographer/Cinematographer you should know many camera handling techniques that are used in the field, how to use a tripod, gimbal, dolly etc., you should be familiar with the various terms & shots used on set, and so on.

Quest: How long have you been a creative person, and when did you learn that your passion is in it?

Ans: I’ve learnt that I’m passionate about creating magic since my teen years. I’ve been a creative person for 10+ years.

Quest: You did not mention anything about your place of birth as well as your current location, can you tell our readers about your place of birth and your current location.

Ans: I was born & brought up in Lagos State, Nigeria. Which is where I currently reside.

Quest: Who are you collaborating with (on personal projects) and what do you stand to benefit in that collaboration?

Ans: I have recently collaborated with Zhi-media, some Ebony life Creative Academy Alumni. Working with them has given me the opportunity to put my skills to the test & better improve on myself, I’ve also had the chance to meet fellow creatives who are also passionate about creating magic like myself. The next collaboration I’m aiming for is with a fellow ebony life creative academy alumni Emmanuel Izuoba on a docu-film he’s titled “Everything Wey Them Tell Us Na Lie” I feel collaborating on this project will give me a new dimension of exposure in the industry.

Quest: Which qualities do you think make a great (artist)?

Ans: Passion, the desire to grow & improve on your craft, dedication & discipline.

Quest: What is your advice to the aspiring (Cinematographers) artists?

Ans: Study as many techniques as possible that are used in the field. Get your hands on a camera & shoot something.

Mpumelelo Kubheka, Man of many talents!!

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INTERVIEWER (JM): Briefly talk to me about MPUMELELO KUBHEKA with regards to who he is, where he is coming from and what he does as a creative person?

INTERVIEWEE (M): Music Producer, Sound Engineer, DJ and Drummer. Started my musical journey in 2009, producing and DJ’ing, and from there got into Sound Engineering. I’ve always loved music and sound and it was a great and fulfilling experience when I was now the one who would be creating some of those tunes that people would love and dance to. I love the big stages, big Front Of House rigs that are engineered correctly. I love the technical design and work behind it.

INTERVIEWEE (M): My biggest passion and dream has always been about creating music that speaks to people, builds people and that people would love and sing along to for years and years to come. I’m still learning, I’m still growing and hope one day to be remembered as one who has contributed creatively in the South African Music Industry and abroad with works that will forever be remembered and will stand test of time.

INTERVIEWER (JM): You are a MUSIC PRODUCER| SONG WRITER| SOUND ENGINEER| AUDIO TECHNICIAN |RECORDING, EDITING, MIXING & MASTERING ENGINEERING |DJ & |DRUMMER | which title best describes you here, and why?

INTERVIEWEE (M): I would say Music Producer and Sound Engineer (covering both studio and live). I’m a technical person, and music production together with sound engineering requires a creative and technical mind. There is a lot if science that goes into the mechanics of both these. It requires one to be on their feet and think out of the box most times. They can be extremely challenging at times and they are the kinds of challenges that I love because they keep my creative juices flowing and keep me on my toes.

INTERVIEWER (JM): How long did it take you to acquire all the skills that you have, and where did you get them from (where were you trained)?

INTERVIEWEE (M): I’ve been doing Music Production, Writing, DJ’ing and Sound Engineering for about 11 years now and drumming for about 7 years with lots of breaks in between…excuse the pun. I’m self-taught in all these areas, but along the way I have met some professionals who have given me advice and taught me a few things and there is also the internet, YouTube. But above all, nothing beats sitting down and working to perfect your craft. Practice and more practice!

INTERVIEWER (JM): If you were to take us through what you do as a creative person in order of preference how would your list look like?

INTERVIEWEE (M): It’s a difficult one because I love all these pretty much the same. But maybe I’d say Producer, Writer, Sound Engineer, DJ & Drummer.

INTERVIEWER (JM): You worked at Sony/ATV Music Publishing (from March 2015–February 2020) at a full time basis, what did your duties and responsibilities entailed?

INTERVIEWEE (M): A lot of things but mainly admin, copyright, label copy stats and A&R.

INTERVIEWER (JM): You also have worked at Northpoint City Church as a “Sound Engineer, Lighting, AV Technician”, on a day – to – day basis what did this entail? 

INTERVIEWEE (M): I had to check that all the sound and AV equipment is working and setup correctly at all times. I had get anything that needed fixing, fixed, and if It’ was something I couldn’t repaired in-house, then get that to a repair center. I also was the lead engineer for events.

INTERVIEWER (JM): I can see here that you studied Digital Sound Engineering at Damelin College as well as Electrical Infrastructure & Construction at South West Gauteng College, which qualification are you mostly using at your current responsibilities?

INTERVIEWEE (M): Digital Sound Engineering. All the jobs I’ve done thus far have been in relation to sound engineering and music.

INTERVIEWER (JM): Can you talk me through your motivation and or inspiration in Engineering (Sound Engineering)? What skills does one require to be able to work effectively and efficiently as an Engineer (effectively and successively)?

INTERVIEWEE (M): Passion! Nothing beats passion. It can be the hardest or the easiest job, but if you don’t have a passion for it, you just won’t survive in it. When you are passionate about something, you invest time learning and upskilling yourself in that particular field and your biggest joy is operating in that field.

INTERVIEWER (JM): Who are you collaborating with (on personal projects) and what do you stand to benefit in that collaboration?

INTERVIEWEE (M): I’ve been working a lot with a producer and writer from Cape Town, Sad Isaac. One of the songs we worked on, “Gqom Trial Remix” had a sync with the Netflix dance series “JIVA” last year. I have also been working with another artist and writer from Johannesburg, Sweet Guy, a brilliant vocalist and writer. I believe that when we work together, collaborate, we can archive greater. Each creative brings in their own flavors and when put together, something beautiful is created.

INTERVIEWER (JM): What project are you currently working on, and how long have you been working on it?

INTERVIEWEE (M): I’m currently in a place of regrouping, gathering my thoughts and recovering from 2020. So nothing new per say, but I just recently remastered some songs which I had produced back in 2014 and never released. I’ve put them out on an EP titled “Afro Waves 2”. These took me back to my early days of music production and thought they were still good to go out even today.

INTERVIEWER (JM): Which qualities do you think make a great (artist)?

INTERVIEWEE (M): Creativity, passion, dedication and focus. A self-driven individual who thinks out of the box.

INTERVIEWER (JM): What is your advice to the aspiring creatives (artists)?

INTERVIEWEE (M): Chase your dream, work hard, push your passion, be professional and get yourself out there but at the same time, don’t let yourself get exploited. The industry is good to those who are striving in it, but for those who are just starting and haven’t “made it”, there are lots of challenges and things that will cause you to loose heart along the way. Know why you are doing what you are doing and never trade who you are, your morals for anything.

Music: A Calling and an Expression of Self!!

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Briefly tell (talk to) Me about NTSIKWANE RAPHESU with regard to who she is and what she does as a creative person? Ntsikwane is a grounded yet curious person. She is a singer and songwriter that writes about the experiences and situations she sees around and within her. She’s curious about the Soul/Spirit that is carried by the human body and has made it point to ground everything she does in that Spirit.

You are an | AFRO-FOLK MUSICIAN | who talks about #self-awareness, #human connection, #music for healing, and #creative expression. how did you get hear or what made you to focus on the above? I have felt a sense of lack and emptiness for most of my life, not knowing where it came from or what to do to feel whole and complete. It is this emptiness that led me to think that there must be more to life than just existing. This led me down the path of spirituality. I read any and all material I could find on spirituality and that’s when I discovered that self awareness is the key to liberation from the pain and sadness that a lot of us suffer from. I share this discovery in my music.

Can you briefly tell us about your job (role) as a Musician with regard to your music within the society dominated by men? My music brings a feminine way of being to society. A lot of us are taught from a young age that hustling and pushing is the only way to achieve your dreams and goals. There is definitely a place for the hustle but there’s also the softer approach- which is moving in tune with the nature of life and how things are. We don’t always have to go against the tide to make things happen. We can do our part and allow divine timing to assist us in bringing things to life

I can see here that you studied BA (DRAMA), PERFORMING ARTS at the University of Pretoria, do you think the course prepared you well to become a good musician? Did you do your degree in order to earn a title of a MUSICIAN or it was just to enhance your skills in music and performance? I initially did not intend to drama. I fell into it by accident (or divine intervention). I was studying sports science at TUT, got injured at the trials for the under 19 national soccer team and had to been booked off for 6 month to recover from the injury.

In that 6 months I realized that I didn’t really want to study sports science. I asked my parents if I could change courses and they allowed. I wanted to study music at University of Pretoria but the course was already full so I enrolled for drama just to pass time and fell in love with acting and completed the degree. The skills I gained from studying drama definitely contributed to my stage presence as a musician. I learnt how to be disciplined and practice my craft daily.

Can you talk to me about your motivation and or inspiration in Music, what keeps you going? What skills do one requires to be able to work effectively and efficiently as a musician (effectively and successively)? Music is a calling for me. There is nothing else I’d rather be doing. My sheer love for the music is what keeps me going. I believe that this is the magic ingredient in everything you do in life – to love what you do. “If you love what you do you will be able to face and overcome the challenges that come along your way”.

How long have you been a musician, and when did you learn that your passion is in it? I started my music career in 2008. I was doing music part time and mainly focusing on acting and drama back then. I went full time into music in 2013, so that would make it 14 years in the industry. I grew up in a musical family and music was all around. I discovered my passion for music at a very young age but didn’t pursue it until I was older.

You have a Classic Album featuring the popular single ‘PULE’, who is “PULE” and what is the message behind the name (Pule)? The song is about a guy who is dating two women and gets married to the one without telling the other. This is something that we see happening a lot in our society today. Many women discover that their partners are married or getting married through social media. The message is for women to really get to know their partners and do their due diligence about their history.

“Ditaba tja batho” is one of your song, what is the meaning behind this title, does it really suggests that people should not involve themselves on the issues that does not require their expertise? ‘Ditaba tja batho’ is about not letting other people’s opinions about you get you down. We sometimes allow people into our lives who do not have the best intentions for us. The song is a warning to be aware.

‘SHOMA’ is a Sepedi word that means ‘WORK’. It’s an anthem for the hustlers, entrepreneurs and business owners, who are making things happen and adding value to the world. It’s inspiration to keep going through hard times and setbacks and a reminder that everything works out in the end. Did you have specific gender group in your mind when you performed/ produced and or created this song? I wrote this song at a time where my career felt stagnant. The song became encouragement for me to keep on moving forward even though it looked like things were not working out. I recorded for all those who’ve ever felt stuck in life, with hopes that they would find inspiration to carry on with their work despite the challenges.

‘BEREKA MOSADI’ is one of your songs which honors the work women do in society, and many a times goes unnoticed. Who are you speaking with here: (married, non-married, young girls) and why? ‘Bereka Mosadi’ speaks to all women young and old. The song reminds women of the power they possess to make a change for themselves and society in general. We live in a patriarchal society that does not afford women the same opportunities (and payment) as men and sometimes expects women to do double the work for less pay. With this song, I remind women that they are the source of all things. Nothing can flourish without the nurturing hands of women, included here is the successful men who run big corporate. “We all come from and were raised by women”.

You have also performed live at MTN”s women’s event, when was it and who were the other musicians featured in that event?. This was 2019 before the world changed due to the pandemic. I was the only live artist to perform and the event MC was the great Rami Chuene.

Is it TRUE that MUSICIANS find it easy to EXPRESS their feelings through music (art), and was this the case with yours? Yes, it’s true. Music is definitely the easiest way for us to express ourselves. Most musicians may not admit this but we are shy. Music makes it easy for us to say what we need to say.

I can see you are occupying the Managing Director role at both Eltara Concepts as well as in Dramatology Entertainment: why did you establish the above companies? I established the companies as a way to create work and income for myself while sharing my gifts and talents with the world. Dramatology was specifically established as a performing arts academy to nurture young talent in Limpopo.

Do you have any new initiative that is going to be released soon and or was released recently (What is it about, and who are the target audience there)? I have a new album coming out in October (2022) called ‘Lesedi’. As the name suggest, the album hopes to bring light in dark spaces and illuminate the spaces within us in need of healing and love. The album is for anyone who is going through or has just been through a transition in their lives and it gives hope for brighter days.

I think you were doing a great job at Bjatladi Youth Development Project as a Programme Mentor, why did you stop? I would have loved to continue there, but I believe the organization did not receive enough funding to continue with their work and so had to stop some of the activities they were doing.

Which qualities do you think makes a great (artist)? Authenticity and stage presence.

What is your advice to the aspiring (Musicians) artists? My advice for them would be to make sure that they are doing music for a bigger reason than fame and money. Yes these things are important but if they are the only reason they want to do music then they will not last. The music industry is not easy, having a clear vision for your music is important.

Young Metro: the South African born Recording Artist, Producer, Creative Director and Mixing & Mastering Engineer!!

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1st degree connection

“SPIN DA BLOCC”

Briefly tell (talk to) me about YOUNG METRO with regards to who he is and what he does?

Young Metro is a South-African born Recording-Artist, Producer, Creative Director & Mixing and Mastering Engineer.

Since Young Metro is your stage name, what is your real name, and where do you come from?

Sibulele Mnyanda, born in East London, but grew up in King William’s Town & Pietermaritzburg, and I am currently in Johannesburg.

You are an ARTIST | MIXING & MASTERING ENGINEER | CREATIVE DIRECTOR & PRODUCER, which title best describes you here, and why?

Artist, I’m a creative intellectual therefore I express myself, talk about my past experiences and share my views on certain topics and it’s my therapy.

Which label are you affiliated to and/or with, and why?

I’m Independent, I believe in ownership but once the right deal comes I’ll sign.

Which genre is your music, and why is that important to you?

  • Trenchwave (A new sub-genre of Hip Hop I created)
  • I made a new wave for artist’s from the trenches/hood/ghetto (if it relates to poverty and struggle its Trenchwave)

Can you talk me through your motivation and or inspiration in music,? What skills do you require to be able to be play music with confidence (effectively and successively)?

  • My motivation is making it out the ghetto/trenches
  • I’m inspired to inspire others
  • Bring Hope to the Youth
  • Skills required are talent, dedication, relentlessness and praying.

How long have you been making music?

  • For Seven(7) years ,but officially made my own music 4 years ago (from producing for myself, recording myself, mixing and mastering my music, in simple terms that’s when you could leave me all by myself in the studio and I’d make a good record)

Where and when did you learn about Music?

  • Boston City Campus in Pretoria, 2015.
  • Studied Sound Engineering, I didn’t even know what C# was nor anything theoretically about music. By September same year I dropped out as I had all the basics and fundamentals and continued studying music via YouTube.

Who are your dream collaborations?

  • Lil Baby ,Drake & Lil Durk because my sound is international
  • Locally Emtee,Nasty C (I came up listening to them and love their work)

Who are your target audience and/or listeners? Do you think you are able to reach them through your music?  How do you get your music to them?

  • Good Music Lovers I’d say ,because my music doesn’t have barriers of race/gender/age ,anyone can listen to my music
  • For me personally, my music is to inspire the youth and everyone from different walks of life
  • I reach everyone who listens to my music because it’s authentic, positive and spreading love.
  • Social Media is my transport to get through my music .

When did you start Singing/Songwriting, and Mastering & Mixing?

  • Started writing raps in Grade 8 (2010) during Art Class and would rap with my close friends, but I changed locations and schools and stopped until my mother asked me what do I want to study next year in Matric ,I was lost just like any grade 12 learner but still to this day I believe God directed me to music cause I responded to my mom by saying Music Production which I had no clue what that was but as long it had music ,I’m doing that till today I do what I love.

What is it that you expect the listeners/ audiences to get from the song? What does the song(s) communicate about your personal life as a musician as most musicians uses songs to express themselves?

  • My music is my life story
  • For me every song is different
  • Today I might feel happy I Trap, Tomorrow I’m sad and in my feelings I take it slow
  • For me it’s a feeling how I feel on that particular time/day and express myself in a relatable manner.

Are there any musicians who inspire you? What qualities do you admire about them?

  • All the Greats from Lil Wayne, Kanye West ,Drake ,Lil Baby
  • It’s the work-ethic, perseverance, dedication and longevity.

Which qualities do you think make a great (artist)?

  • Hard Work, Discipline and Being Humble.

What is your advice to aspiring (musicians) artists?

  • Never stop dreaming.
  • The hustle is sold separately from the dream
  • Keep grinding and be relentless
  • Work hard and Pray to God.

What are your Social Media Information?

  • @youngmetro_sa on Instagram

Engaging the artwork in order to find the Meaning!!

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PetrosMwengArt

Petros Mwenga is a visual artist who was born and raised in Glen Norah A Harare, Zimbabwe. He studied Fine  art at Peter Birch Art school in 2005 to 2006, and Visual Art at National Arts gallery Visual Art Studios from 2006-2007. He mostly specializes in painting and drawings, his art is a form of communication just like other forms of Communications, and Social life commentary is his source of inspiration.

Petros regard himself as both a Fine Artist, Visual Artist, and a Painter because his work is both (Fine art & visual art). His work is not about hiding the message from the viewers, but to simplify it for the readers to make them come up with their own interpretation, though my real aim is to show them my interpretation.

My work is not about a particular theme or subject because l am mostly guided by inspiration and everything that transpires in the society, said Petros. The worrying factor here is that there re is a gap in the arts with certain artistic messages appears not  to have been documented (communicated) by the media, musicians, actors ,writers and other forms of arts, and that is where I stand as an individual artist, said Petros.

l don’t get worried when people interprets my work, especially in a positive way you know, yes sometimes I get to tell the message that my paintings conveys because it’s my form of language that sometimes other people might not be able to interpret or read. Petros’ aim as an artist is to make all his artworks easy and simple for the readers to engage with it in order to come up with their own meaning.

“My work is mostly mixed medium because it gives me room to experiment as my aim is to bring something new to the world and to surprise myself before anyone”, said Petros. The meaning behind, “It took the whole village to raise me” has to do with me been raised by my grandparents from my maternal side, and after they passed on my uncles took over the responsibility of raising me, said Petros. The other thing that affected my well-being  were Both the economic and financial constraints enabled the SOS to take over up to my college level, and after my research l have learned that it is so in many African children’s’ life.

Publisher you’re correct in your interpretation as there is a saying African believes that says, “It takes a village to raise a child”, so l am glad you have interpreted it that way for my aim was to show that in our African culture a child does not only belong to their biological parents only. l don’t know about myself been a well-known artist, but I’m glad if people see me that way, that is how Petros shot down insinuations about him been a popular artist. On the other hand, he indicated that in order to continue been relevant to the sector, he suggested that one need to keep on  researching , experimenting and striving for the best.

I am more understanding and regards criticisms in different levels, there is constructive criticism which is health for the growth of every artist. “l take what is best for me, and leaves out the negatives”, said Petros. The advent of technology has brought with it changes, both positive and negative ones, which impacted our artistic works in many ways. Now l can research easily and market my work without any challenges like before, it’s also easy to reach more people than before.

One of the memorable times in my life was after l won 1st Prize in a competition sponsored by the UNTED NATIONS in 2004, and best in show award ‘Black Like Us’ Exhibition. You see, I am motivated by the way I grew up, I because I always wanted to have a voice in the social space for those who are under privileged, said Petros!! The quality that I admire when l look at other artist work is the ability to tell their own stories, color and composition.

In the arts we always learn and improve on our artworks rather than labelling it the worst as that work that is regarded as such will not come to public sight ,its either I paint over it or put it away. What l have learnt is that enough research is essential to my work and to give myself enough time to create the work, said Petros.

My sincere and honest advice to the upcoming artists is that they should be resilience, persistence, research and experiment whatever they are passionate about. There is no limit to the arts, but our efforts determine how far we will go!!

Dreams delayed are not dreams denied!!

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Interview with Mlondi Nkwanyana from Dobsonville, Soweto!!

Mlondi Nkwanyana also known as “Mlondi Le Gordito” is a young man from Dobsonville Hostel, which is formally known as “Sphiwe Village” in Dobsonville Soweto.  He is a Voice Over Artist, Actor, TV & Radio Presenter as well as been an Entrepreneur.

In all that I do as an artist I believe and prefer to be called and or described as Mlondi, the Media Personality, he said smilling. He conceded that the reason behind the name “Media Personality” is because he has been involved in a number of things in the Media Industry which includes amongst others the following: Voice Over Artist, Actor, TV & Radio Presenter, as well as a Musician.

He did not shy away to mention about his place of birth when asked, and he boldly stated that he was born at Coronation Mother and Child Hospital, which is now known as “Rahima Moosa Mother and Child Hospital”, and grew up at ekasie, Dobsonville in Soweto. The reason behind my craft is based on the love and passion I developed in the early age of (8) eight because of my personality, which was shaped and honed by my then Grade R teacher Mrs. Adonis who believed and realized my capabilities, said Mlondi.

Mlondi got the opportunity to study and pass my Matric, and he is currently studying towards a Diploma in Marketing Management with Boston City Campus and College. With regard to working he said that he has not joined any radio station at the moment, but he is desperately looking for the opportunity that might present itself where he can settle down to enhance his talent.

I have so far worked on TV Adverts, one was on MTN 8 advert in 2020, and recently I was an Extra on a Pick ‘n Pay ASAP advert, said Mlondi. The two production companies that Mlondi worked with are Senzo Media Productions in 2020, and later joined Sharp Marketing and Promotions from 2021 to date. My role at Sharp Marketing and Promotions is that of a Founder, CEO and Lead Voice Over Artist.  Well, I have diferent skills in Media and Marketing, but I am currently focusing on building my Media Career as well as working on my Marketing Qualification, said Mlondi.

The one thing that we did not know about him is that he had once worked as Barista at Seattle Coffee Company before getting promoted to be a Lead Barista, a title which involves making Specialty Coffee. His is an interesting and funny schedule as his normal day starts with him working as Barista during the day, and as Media Personnel and Entrepreneur later on (afterwards hours).

He conceded that he hardly uses his Voice Over service because he is currently a “Free Agent”, but working on getting a permanent position soon. Mlondi was fortunate to discover that he was creative way back when he was still in primary school, and then he began to gradually nurture the talent he is got by participating in every opportunity that presented itself befor him.

We have different persons in this industry wielding different influential powers to the audiences at large, but I believe that one need to be confident in addition to been humble. One must be open to learn new things but avoid been arrogant.

Lastly, my advice to the young and upcoming artists is that, “Dreams come true if you put them into practice (existence) and act on them, also I quote “dreams delayed are not dreams denied”, let time and nature take its course, everything has its time, and yours shall come also!!

Music is the language for the ears!!

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  1. Briefly tell (talk) to Me about Chris M Induku Entle with regard to who he is and what he does as an artist? Chris M is a young man from Eastern Cape, he is a Singer and Songwriter. Basically, he writes and sings his own music 🎶  
  • You are the CEO | OWNER | MUSIC PRODUCER | which title best describes you here, and why? Owner describes me better because I own my work.  
  • Which label are you affiliated to and/or with, and why? I would say I’m affiliated with my “OWN Record Label”, since I’m independent so yeah outside my label no other company. I’m affiliated to my own because no other company tried to sign me.
  • Which genre is your music, and why is that important to you? AFROPOP because I think I’m able to express myself freely and I believe I do better telling my story through AFROPOP.
  • Can you talk me through your motivation and or inspiration in music,? What skills do you require to be able to play music with confidence (effectively and successively)? My motivation and inspiration it’s to see my music touch other people in different ways, in addition to writing and singing songs that touches people’s hearts and emotions. Skills you require I would say that people must be themselves. That’s a skill everyone possesses than trying to be someone you’re not. Be yourself and that is where your confidence is!!
  • How long have you been singing and who are you working with (as a team/group)? I have been doing music professionally like 8 years I’m working with my manager, producer like I have a small team!
  • Where and when did you learn about music? I learnt by just writing, writing, and writing what I felt to be honest.  I never went to school for MUSIC, I started by writing, and later stood in front of the mirror and started singing, and gradually love for it grew step by step.
  • Can you talk to me about :
  • (a)“ New Unity Records”, what influenced the establishment of Unity Records, and what does this name suggest in an organization? It’s the love of ownership since I couldn’t get a deal with other Labels, so I decided to ESTABLISH it, and the name suggest “Coming Together” since we know in the music industry there’s MULTIPLE DIVISIONS.  I believe in Unity and coming together, you know!

(b) “My Gift To You”, what is the message about here and who it is directed to? “My Gift To You” it’s an Album I released with the intent that its message will impact everyone that HEAR & LISTENS my music. Those that get touched by it, it is “My Gift To You” to enjoy, LOVE & LIVE!!

  • Who are you collaborating with and what do you stand to benefit in that collaboration? I collaborate with everyone who sees value in my work, and willing to go forward to achieve their goals in life. I sometimes benefit in monetary value and experience though that is the last thing for me as my focus is to learn and expand my horizons in the industry.
  • Who are your target audience and/or listeners? Do you think you are able to reach them through your music?  How do you get your music to them? “My audience are those who believe in love and good music which have appealing messages”. The thing is I hardly get to Radio Stations and TV, as well as social networks and digital platforms where I can promote my work with ease.
  • When did you start singing/songwriting, and performing? I started singing very early age 12 but performing I started like later on wen I took music professionally like 8 years ago.
  • What is it that you expect the listeners/ audiences to get from the song? What does the song(s) communicate about your personal life as a musician as most musicians uses songs to express themselves? I expect the audience to get hope, believe that everything they are going through will pass and those bad days will be replaced by good ones. My music is replete with messages about life whether happy or bad because I know that people go through real ISSUES out there.
  • Are there any musicians who inspire you? What qualities do you admire about them? There’s many musicians that inspire me, for example we have musicians like Ringo Madlingozi, Don Jazzy, Akon, Ntando, and many more others whose music conveys real life messages. Some of these musicians managed to build their own Record Labels.
  • Describe your worst performance. What did you learn from this experience?  My worst performance I think was just one of those days were I just couldn’t impress the crowd, and they couldn’t relate because they wanted to dance and my set that day was deep songs that make you think the realities of life. The lesson learnt there was that I should learn to prepare for any other performance, for a BIG audience of SMALL.  
  • Which qualities do you think make a great (artist)? Willingness to learn, passion for music, those are the best qualities you should have because in willingness and passion for music best will come out in you and you destined for greatness.
  • What is your advice to the aspiring artists?  My advice for the aspiring artists is that they should believe in themselves and never give up, because hard work pays.

Film and TV Producer, Director, Fine Artist and Graphic Designer: Is there any limit in Creativity?

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Who is BRUCE MZAMO with regard to what he does as a creative (artist) person?

Mzamo Bruce, also known as SBee, is a talented South African all-round creative in the Film and TV / Arts and design industry. He has done so much in taking part on the establishment of a successful TV station in Mpumalanga which is (Rising Sun TV, channel 504 on StarSat) since then he grew his talent on his own by venturing into different mediums of film and tv. He writes, produce, direct, shoot and edit. Sometimes he Conceptualize and Design TV show aspects like motion graphics and he also introduced himself to fine arts, he draws and paint.

Where are you from, and why do you do what you do (your artistic creativity)?

I’m from Mpumalanga, in Nelspruit. I grew up in small village knows as Game but decided to relocate to Gauteng in 2016, so I’m currently based in Johannesburg. I’m doing all these things because I feel like they allow me to be myself, they make me happy and just to share the Gods given talent and to inspire others.

You are a FILM AND TV PRODUCER | CINEMATOGRAPHER | EDITOR | VISUAL ARTIST | GRAPHIC DESIGNER, which one best describes you here, and why?

All of them, the reason why I say this is because ever since I began my journey in the media industry, i found that whenever I do something, it becomes a ladder to climb on to the next thing, so everything I do connects with each other. Whenever I feel the exhaustion that come with film and TV I focus on the fine-arts and find inspiration.  

Can you briefly talk to us about your major successes which earned you a title of a FILM & TV CREATIVE, when was it and the collaborations you had with other visionaries and the role that you play (ed) therein?

I can say everybody who contributes into the medium of film and TV is a Film and TV Creative. You don’t even need an award to have this title, you just have to create and contribute in this sector, So I’ve earned my title in 2018 when I joined the guys who had the idea of establishing a TV Station, we worked together, with God’s grace we accomplished that vision, TV went on a 24hours broadcast in June 2019. That’s when I’ve told myself that I can be anything, because it’s highly impossible for amateurs to accomplished such dream without any TV experience, even though I studied media but it was impossible, I still question myself sometimes “How did we managed to do that?”

What is it that you are currently doing to put food on the table?

I am the table here. Food must find a way to bring itself to me,  I’m kidding right now, I am strictly focused into writing and directing TV commercials. I also shoot some internal videos for corporate companies. I distribute TV lower third motion graphics and I also do fine art.

I can see that you were bestowed with an INTERNATIONAL EMMY AWARDS by the  INTERNATIONAL ACADEMY OF TELEVISION ARTS & SCIENCE in 2021, what was it for and who did you competed with?

Yeah, I was actually nominated, under category of JCS young creative in the Emmy awards in New York City. I’m not really sure who are the people I was competing with. What I know is that we were 3 from South Africa and others were coming from other countries.

You COLLABORATED with Timberland SA in designing a Human Rights Day T-ShirtZA, was it a national and or a provincial initiative made by who?

Yeah, I collaborated with this international brand in designing a shirt. This initiative was made by Timberland South Africa, they were looking for a designer/Fine artist/Illustrator to come up with a fresh idea that better tells a story of Human Rights Day. I decided to bless them with my fine art that I’ve drew, titled: Dreams. When I firstly saw that Initiative, I wasn’t really interested in it but a friend of mine insisted for me to part.  I kept on looking at their white t-shirt until I connected with it, I saw the whole complete design in my vision. I remember telling my friend that I have something special for timberland, this one is Healthy “we use the word healthy for anything that is cool”, i told him they better connect with it before it’s too late. He laughed because I said I wouldn’t take part in this thing, I sent it to him, he connected with it and saw the story telling it self on t-shirt. I knew that the brand was going connect with also.

Another collaboration you have had is in the establishment of a Television Station (TV) in Mpumalanga (RSTV, Channel 504 on STARSAT, which role did you play there and or are you still playing in that initiative (Mpumalanga Television Station)?

I was responsible for Producing, Directing, Shooting, Editing, Graphic Designing, sometimes I found myself in-front of camera doing presenting. I’ve done a lot of things, I had a platform to educate myself, prove myself and find myself. Working there prepared me for any tv role, I was exposed to everything. But you know sometimes the bright lights of success can blur your eyes, so there were people who ended up not seeing who was there when nobody was, that’s what happened after the success of RSTV, new people came in, the old ones were forgotten, so later in December 2019 I decided to excuse myself. Since then, a lot sad stories happened within the management.  2022 January there was a sabotage that took place in the server room in Midrand, that’s when i decided to make a comeback and assist in restoring the server and handle TV broadcast playout. Because I cannot just seat and watch people ruining what we have worked hard for. I am currently helping in the technical department.

Can you talk me through the following initiatives you were involved in:

  • Tsonga Society and the University of Cape Town.

     Tsonga Society is an initiative of the University of Cape Town. I was called to conceptualize and design

a logo for that initiative. I have illustrated a Tsonga lady dancing, now they use it in their branding.

  • New jaguar I-PACE manifesto film (YouTube) – What was the purpose of this video?

New Jaguar I-Pace video purpose is to get premium car buyers and future prospects excited about electric vehicles, specifically the SA car of the year 2020, the all-electric Jaguar I-PACE. The voice-over was done by Zaba D Mokoena, she has a sweet voice. I like to mention her name whenever I talk about the work we’ve done together.

The title of your Video, “Free Yourself which has WON you the EMMY AWARDS in New York City “ gives a positive self-initiated freedom to individual persons, tell us what was the motivation behind this project (video)? Whose brain child was the Video and what was your role therein, if any?

The Free Yourself short film, was written, produced and directed by Myself, the one and only Mzamo SBee, it is narrated by Dre. And it didn’t really Won the award, It just won the nomination. I consider nominations as wins because they show that we doing a great work and we moving.  The motivation behind this video was PEACE, it just gives an awareness of the people who are helping in the streets to bring ourselves into peaceful minds.

I see you have also worked on a YouTube video promo for the Cradle of Humankind, when was it and what was the promo about (intended to achieve)?

Cradle of Human Kind Promo Video was done in November 2021 but I started shooting in September because it was shot in different places, so I had to travel to all those places mentioned in the script, like Lanseria airport, Bothongo Rhino & Lion Nature Reserve, Sterkfontein Cave, Tshisa Nyama somewhere in Kagiso, and The Cradle Hotel. The Promo aims to achieve and alert tourist about the active shot left spots in the cradle site.

You are a man of many talents, far from been a Film Director, you are a Fine Artist & Illustrator. Can you briefly tell us about the later (Fine Artist)?

Fine Art was my 1st love. I used to draw a lot of sketches when I was in primary. But never really knew that it would become part of my life forever. It has always been in my blood. It is something that comes natural to me. Later in 2014 I decided to introduce myself into digital illustration. I drew some cartoons on a phone and on computer.

What are you currently working on (as a creative person) and how long have you been doing it?

Currently I’m working on a series of Internal Videos for MiWay, the insurance company. I’m responsible for directing, Shooting and Editing. I’m also pitching for few TV ads.

What is your motivation and or inspiration in FILM AND TV PRODUCING | CINEMATOGRAPHER | EDITING | VISUAL ARTIST | GRAPHIC DESIGNING as the roles you play as an artistic person!! What skills do you require to be able to perform all the roles effectively and successively?

My motivation in everything that I do is to complete a difficult project. I often struggle to believe in myself sometimes but being able to make a client happy gives me assurance that i am the best in what I do. I would say the skills required to perform all these roles would be, creativity and time management.

How can you explain your educational journey in terms of the institution you qualified from and the years of your studying?

I’ve done Journalism and media studies, but I was more interested in to media production which had some in sites of film and TV. Throughout my studies I was exposed into Entertainment, sometime I would take my camera and shoot videos and photos of celebrities at the events. I can say I was tasting the dream.

What are the AWARDS, HONORS AND ACHIEVEMENTS you have received so far, and what does they say about you as a creative person?

So-far I got an Emmy Award nomination in New York, I got a T-shirt Collaboration with Timberland. And I’m still coming with more achievement.

Who are your target audience and/or listeners? Do you think you are able to reach them through your artworks (films, video, and music?  How do you get your artworks (music, video, and films) to them?

I don’t really create based on what people like, I always let the project show me what it wants to be. Then it’s up to them if they emotionally connect with the projects or not.

When did you (started to) realize that you are artistically creative?

Realized when I was in Primary. I was a go to person whenever people needed drawings and info graphics for portfolio.

Are there any Musicians and or Film Makers who inspire you? What qualities do you admire about them?

In the film and TV I’m inspired by the work of Thabang Moleya, Director of Happiness is a four-letter word, and the happiness ever after. His work carries emotional and comedic approach at same-time.

In the fine arts I’m inspired by the work of Nelson Makamo. He is very gifted in applying brush strokes that can make you connect with his arts emotionally. And his arts are appreciated globally

Describe your worst performance and or creation or production, and tell us what you learned from this experience?

I don’t really have a standing out worst performance I remember. But mistakes happen in production or in designing. There are times when you would think a project is well done but find that a client comes with so many changes.

Which qualities do you think make a great artist?

Creativity, story-telling, creating your own identity and consistency.

What is your advice to the aspiring artists?

Make each-day count towards reaching your success, practice and stop seeking for validation. If they don’t connect with your creations now, relax they will catch-up later.

Actor and Voice Over Artist, Is there a difference?

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Briefly tell (talk to) Me about Andy Mnguni with regard to who she is and what she does as an artist?  Where are you from, and why do you do what you do (your artistic creativity)?

Hi my I’m Andy Mnguni, A South African Actress and a Voice Over Artist. I have great passion, commitment and dedication to the Arts🎭. I’m originally from Durban, Kwa-Mashu, in KZN province. Resides in Johannesburg. You are an ACTRESS| VOICE OVER ARTIST, which one best describes you here, and why?

Can you briefly talk to us about the different characters you have played on TV, which one is your most and least favorable, and why?

All the Characters I’ve portrayed have been my favorites because each character has been different & has given me different challenges but in all, I go as far as researching about the person I’m to portray. So, all that excites me and I embrace that character for the duration of the shoot.

Your role as Sindi in the Mzanzi Magic drama series “The Republic” was both interesting and challenging at the same time, why?

Playing a role is and will always be challenging because as a CHARACTER you are trying to become someone that you’re not and you must do it PERFECTLY so that their representation is clear to the audiences.

I see that your first appearance on National TV was on an EPISODE of the SABC 1 Educational Series SOUL BUDDYZ (Season 2, Episode 10), can you briefly explain the feeling you had then about your appearance?

Actually my very first Television appearance was in year 1997, on a SABC 1 drama series called “Ithemba lokugcina” I played a Lead character “Pinky” who was a FASHION DESIGNER.

You featured as a guest STARRING ROLE in the SABC 1 SOAPIE, “MZANZI” and later in the SABC 3 SOAPIE, “ISIDINGO”, which role (one) appealed to you the most here, and why?

I liked and enjoyed both ROLES here, because for me playing a particular character means learning to become different people in their different settings, which means I must give it my all!

In the arts we believe that there is a meaning in a name, Can you take a brief moment to talk to us about NOMPILO who was the main subject of a TWO part EPISODE entitled “The Wedding” in the Second Season of the SABC 1 Police Procedural Crime drama, MTUNZINI.COM. Does the character lived their name in the mentioned contexts?

Oooh, Yes, there are hidden meanings in names. However, her’s was just coincidental that she was called Nompilo without really carrying a specific meaning to her character. The character was killed following crimes which happened in the play, and that somehow create a link to her name with what happens in the storyline.

(In 2016, Andy guest starred in a Season 2 episode of the Mzansi Magic drama series Saints and Sinners and later that year had a guest role in the SABC1 legal drama series Sokhulu & Partners). You are a very busy person and hardworking: Can you briefly talk to us about what a normal day looks like to you!!

As an ACTRESS or ACTOR one does not have the luxury of time to be at the same place for a longer period as we are always jostling for the available roles to play. We are always on the way and or shooting (scenes).

Briefly explain to us the characters you played in “EHOSTELLA”,and other roles in other projects that you’re participating in!!

The number of projects I’ve been involved with, ie. Durban Gen, eHostela, The Republic, Sokhulu & Partners, Ambitions, Saints & Sinners, Lucky Specials, Hijack Stories … have all been huge Productions that have given me such recognition in the industry.

We devoted most of our time ASKING QUESTIONS about ANDY MNGUNI as a character, can you tell us a bit about Andy Mnguni as a VOICE ARTIST or SINGER now?

Being a Voice Over Artist is quite easy when you’re an Actor coz your voice needs to attract the listener in whatever you promoting /advertising. I’ve such a Heavy, Deep and Authoritative voice. So, it works in my favor when they want to use a voice that draws attention.

I learned that your Voice Over Service is in TRANSLATING SCRIPTS from Zulu to English & English to Zulu scripts, is it by choice or knowledge?

Zulu is my home language and English is the main language used by many to express themselves, even here I feel more comfortable using the two languages than others. Well, I can do other languages, but I am more than happy to use Zulu and English!!

When did you (started to) realize that you are artistically creative?

The journey to self-discovery is not an easy one because it involves how one positions themselves and how they manage to grab the opportunity as it presents itself. For me it is not about “the when”, but “the how” because it is the beginning of the journey.

What is it that you expect the readers/listeners/ audiences and viewers to get from your characters (acting)? What does acting or appearing on national TV communicate about your personal life as sometimes some roles can be used as a platform to express oneself?

I give my all to what I do, and as such I expect the audience to get exactly what is expected of the character that I portray on stage. The thing is, when I play a role I am convinced that I am actually portraying somebody’s (real) life and I must do it heartily.

Describe your worst performance. What did you learn from this experience? For me there is no worst performance, rather call it a learning curve from which experience   is gained for other future projects.

Which qualities do you think make a great actor? What is your advice to the aspiring actors? My advice to up and coming Actors, is… :-Know your story -Don’t be in the Arts for fame. -Your passion should be enough to have patience coz things might not always go as you anticipate. -Stay humble, that will take you far in the industry. -Obviously, have the talent that’s expected from you. Be professional at all times. -Stay in pray & Have God’s wisdom to guide you through all the trials and tribulations you might come across along the journey.

Kagiso Segone, Hip-hop artist, Writer, Social Activist, Film –Maker, and Media Practitioner from Khutsong, Carletonville!!

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  • Briefly introduce yourself with regard to who you are and what you do as an artist? I am Kagiso Segoe, a Hip-Hop artist, Writer, Social Activist, Film –Maker, and Media Practitioner.
  • Seeing that you are wearing many caps on your head, which one career path best describes you here and why? I am more of a Writer and Social Activist.
  • The work and the activities you are involved in requires you to be passionate and have an energy of some sort, so what motivates you? I am inspired by creativity and have a burning desire to see things happening in my community. I desire communicating to and or with different types of audiences who use different types of media platforms.
  • Who inspired you to follow the career path you have taken? My dad was an activist, artist, and musician who liked watching movies and films with us-which I think had an influence on us at a very tender age. He was also an ardent reader and writer.
  • As a creative person, how do you feel about what you do as an artist? I am extremely happy with what I am doing artistically.
  • What piece of an advice can you give to the up and coming artists? My advice is that they should focus on their passion and all the things which makes them happy, otherwise they will lead miserable lives!! They must also learn as much as they possibly can and try doing research regarding their interested field.
  • In the opening you said you are a Film-Maker, how many films have you written so far, and what is their titles? I have four films in my bag up to so far, and they are as follows: One Day– Is a film that looks at the social issues (Poor Service Delivery) happening in the community with the view that “One Day” they will change for the better.
  • Friends– This is the film I made with the intent of educating people about lifestyle (s) in the township.
  • Troublesome– This one is the film looking at school going kids and the social issues they get entangled themselves in while at school.
  • Get a Boy– This is a film which was inspired by my personal story because as a boy there was a time when I wanted to play soccer, but was constrained by social issues including bullying.
  • You also are a musician, how many albums have you produced so far? I have –
  • (a) three (3) mixed tapes, experimental project
  •               (b) Single Track titled “Move it”, which is a fun song with no particular insightful meaning.
  • Can you please talk to me about your future plans!!! My plans includes amongst others the following:
  • -to release music album -to launch my own company under which I will sign my music -shooting a video for the single- Will also tour a lot promoting and marketing my music
  • What makes you to plan launching your own company from which to sign others? I have been hustling for twenty years from which I got the opportunity to be signed under other labels, but did not work for me. I have learned a lot about the business side of music which led me to the gruesome findings about exploitation of artists in the industry.
  • How are you been perceived in the community, and what could be the reason for that? I am misunderstood because I do a lot of things at a time which are happening at the same time, and ultimately makes me popular. Actually, I am multi-talented person who is also seen as a threat because of my competitive edge.

Facts & Opinion

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The past two years (2020-2022) has been described as the most hard and excruciating ones both locally and internationally. The advent of Covid-19 has brought about sorrow and sadness in the lives of many who had lost their loved ones due to succumbing to Covid-19 and other related complications, with the creative industry been the most hit by such (a) of death which happened unexpectedly.

Whilst we have many good and gifted artists in South Africa, I think we have not yet come to terms with the reality about the challenges they face on a daily basis. Artists are humans (fathers, mothers, brothers, sisters, cousins, and uncles) who are breadwinners and have families to cater for. In South Africa artists seem to be ignored and their artworks not taken serious because we do not have a system that protect and promote artistic creativity.

During hard lockdown when other workers from other sectors were granted relief grants, only artists were taken from pillar to post with nobody willing to help them. The National Arts Council, the body representing artists in this country played hide and seek instead of paying relief grants to the creative men and women who were going hungry. Artists decided to stage a “Sit-On” in the offices of the National Arts Council in order for them to be paid the relief grant. It took them closer to six (6) weeks for them to get the attention of the whole of South Africa. Interestingly, the Minister of Sports, Arts & Culture’s office continued to say that they have money made available for the disgruntled artists which will be disbursed by the NAC.

I think the issue of cadre deployment to the sectors that which they are not competent at is continuing to cripple the sector. It will be proper to have someone with the knowledge, expertise and an art practitioner to be appointed in that role as they will understand the plight of the artists. There is so much that need to be changed and or dealt with in this country in order to level the playing field and to ensure that it is conducive for our artists.

Interview with Rose Rathaga

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Can you introduce yourself to our audiences (Briefly tell (talk to) Me about Rose Rathaga with regard to what she does as an artist)?  Where are you from, and why do you do what you do (your artistic creativity)?

  • Rose Rathaga is a qualified “Theatre and Performance Practitioner”. I majored in Directing and Performance. Born and raised in Soweto, Pimville, Diepkloof and Meadowlands. I have always aspired to be the voice of the voiceless in my artistic creativity- “telling and showing” audiences or people outside of Soweto that the township is more than just a tourist/historical attraction. Soweto continues to evolve in culture, music, dance and stories and that is what inspires my craft, where I come from inspired by the likes of Gibson Kente and fine artist Gerard Sekoto.

You are an ACTRESS |VOICE- ARTIST| MAKE-UP ARTIST , which one best describes you here, and why? 

  • ACTRESS best describes who I am because I am a vivacious person by nature! I am constantly changing my voice when I even have just a simple conversation with anyone. My life is a performance and everyone I encounter or interact with is the audience. “I am an entertainer at heart”, said Rathaga.

What do you like about Acting, Voice Over Acting and/or Make-up Artist?

  • Art is self-expression, therapeutic as well as educational, and I know that somewhere out there someone has been inspired by my performance, by listening to me on the radio or I’ve definitely changed the way a client  viewed themselves after I’ve performed a treatment on them (done their makeup) that’s what I LOVE about what I do and personally, my life is a canvas, my experiences are my tools and brushes, my craft aids me in painting this beautiful life as an active member in society.

Did you like acting since childhood, and when did you decided that you want to become an actor?

  • I was that little girl that sang Brenda Fassie’s songs in the mirror or come back home and sing Nursery rhymes in RnB so yes, I have been a performer since childhood. However, for the longest time I was sure I would study Gynecology until I got to High School and everyone kept asking me if I was really sure about Gynecology and suggested I should audition for Drama. I knew after that audition that that’s what I’m destined to do, I felt at home and I never looked back.

When did you start acting? What got you started?

  • I started acting in Creche/Kindergarten. We did a child abuse play and I was chosen to be a part of it because and I officially picked up again in Grade 10 as I took Drama as one of my subjects.

Do you like something other than Acting, Voice-Over and or Make Up?

  • I love cooking. I’m always trying new recipes. I make homemade pies, roasted chicken oh and I make a mean creamy samp and stew.

Why did you choose career in Acting, Voice Over and or Making-Up?

  • I honestly couldn’t see myself doing anything else. I enjoy being stretched beyond my comfort, I dislike routine and there’s always something new with what I chose to do.

Who are your biggest influencers?

  • Gibson Kente, Motshabi Tyelele, Jenifer Lewis and Lungile Thabethe

Can you briefly talk to Me about the “Voice Over Actor” role you played on SABC 1’s Skeem Saam, what did the role entailed and how you felt about it?

The role I played was a lady from a construction company who came to measure the yard, as “Kwaito” was building a house for “MaNtuli”. Because the character did not appear on camera, it was a voiceover that the other actor would react to. It entailed recording my lines as if I’m speaking having a conversation with the other actor, the only difference was the beats/ silence in between my lines which would later be filled by the other actor in front of the camera. I was really excited about the role because I’ve always wanted to be on the set of Skeem Skaam although it wasn’t a “big” role, I still had the experience.

Can you briefly talk to Me about the “honors & awards bestowed to you for  your contribution in the arts: Which honors and what did you do to earn them?

The award was in honour of my musical contribution in the adaptation of Xoli Norman’s “Hallelujah!” directed by Fiona Ramsay. I think what stood out for whoever was on the panel was my rendition of Miriam Makeba’s “Lakutshon Ilanga” in the play.

 I can see here that you also have had the opportunity to play a supporting role on M-Net’s “Inconceivable”, can you briefly describe your role therein?

I played a nurse at the Infertility clinic.

 You have had the chance to enroll and or to study with “The Pyramid Beauty School”, talk to us about it and where you have used the skills gained from this school?

I studied a part-time Make-Up course there. I am now a qualified makeup artist and business owner of GlambyRose. This has helped to keep afloat in the advent of unemployment in South Africa. I do makeup for video shoots, weddings, parties and any other event.

What, according to you, is the best part of your work?

  • The smiles of my clients at the end of the treatment (Make-Up)
  • Being able to fit into different shoes and tell people’s stories, I can be a doctor, a lawyer, a street-sweeper and or anything. Once you’ve played these roles, your judgement is not so clouded because you understand what it’s like to walk a mile in these people’s shoes (actor)

Tell us about the toughest part of your work? And why do you think it is tough for you?

  • The long hours. It’s tough because you still have to learn more lines when you get home, make notes on the day’s rehearsal and get enough rest to make it to tomorrow’s rehearsal. Acting requires one to be physically, emotionally and mentally fit.
  • House Calls. Waking up early in the am’s only to find the client is not ready and once they are, they rush the treatment because they’re behind schedule. (makeup)

If anything you would be asked to change about your work, what would be that one thing?

  • Allowing some time for a rehearsal on a film/tv set. Sometimes the process seems rushed and you don’t get the opportunity to interact well enough with your scene partner/s.

The entertainment industry is said to be full of stress and pressure; what do you do to tackle the pressure that comes with your work?

  • First, I pray for the environments that I get into and then I breathe through the whole process. There is a lot of pressure, you just need know your limits and voice them out so that you don’t drown in the stress and pressure. It’s important to put your well-being first before anything sometimes.

Do you have experience acting in Television or Film?

  • Yes I do

What is the first thing you do to research and approach a role?

  • I first read the script and then break down the character according to their physical,social, psychological and moral level. This gives me an idea of how they would walk, talk, speak, think. This would give me the context they grew up in and I would have to do further research on that too.

What experience do you have in developing accents for specific roles?

  • My strongest accents are Nigerian, Cockney and Coloured and Southern American. I continue to develop these through vocal exercises, phonetics and I could even develop more with the help of a vocal coach-once I can afford one, of course.

Are you flexible enough to work on short notice as a stand-in? How quickly can you assume a new role?

  • Yes. The more you audition, the easier it is to learn lines and build on a character. I could be cast today and assume the role on the same day. It’s all about the commitment and discipline.

What’s challenging about bringing a script to life?

  • Interpretation. Trying to understand and interpret the script as best as the playwright had intended.

What is your reaction to the people, who mimic you?

  • Laughter. I’m sometimes surprised at how dramatic I can be. It’s interesting to see myself through someone’s eyes.

List some of your accomplishments in the field of acting.

  • Landing roles, the aforementioned honorary certificates; meeting and interacting with industry people that I grew up watching; directing a play and performing a one-hander.

Describe your most challenging role to date.

  • The role of Dikeledi from Motshabi Tyelele’s “Shwele Bawo”. It was a one hander that required me to tap in and out of multiple characters. It required a lot from me physically, mentally and emotionally as tis was quite an intense piece.

Where do you see your career in five years as an Actor?

  • I see myself cast as a principle actress in a soapie, doing a couple of films, more stage plays and venturing more into being a casting director and director.

What is your strength as an Actor?

  • Sustained energy.

 How do you rehearse a scene if the other Actors you need to interact within the scene are not available?

  • I first read the whole script out loud so I can hear what the character is saying-listening is so important- and then record their lines and work around that. Always find ways of working with what you have. We actors are quite resourceful.

 Who do you consider to be your acting role model whose career you would like to emulate, and why?

  • Jenifer Lewis. She’s unapologetic and every role she plays she does with conviction.

What techniques do you use to create a believable character?

  • I draw from Stanislavki’s method of acting and Gibson Kente’s township acting.

How do you prepare in advance for a role?

  • I characterize, research the world of the play and rehearse well in advance.

Describe your acting style?

  • I enjoy highly energized acting styles that require physicality than relying more on costume. I always draw from Grotowski’s principles of using the body to compensate for the set because I believe an actor’s body is their greatest tool in terms of voice, gestures and physicality.

How do your friends treat you after you became a Celebrity? 

  • I don’t believe in the idea or concept of “celebrity” and I’m not on yet so to speak but my circle supports even the smallest of my achievements. I’m simply just a vessel of telling great stories.

Which fictional character would be the most exciting to meet in real life?

  • Professor Dumbbledor. I’m a huge Harry Potter fan.

What was your motivation behind a successful Actor?

  • Humility and discipline.

When you decided to be an actor, did your family support you?

  • Not quite in the beginning because they always thought I would become a gynecologist since I was also adamant on becoming but they adjusted once they saw my first performance in High School and fully supported me through varsity until present.

How important is developing a personal style when it comes to Acting?

  • It’s important to know who you are and the roles you would like to play and sell yourself as that as I’ve recently learned that actors are supposed to treat themselves as a business so that when you are requested for a role, you are fully comfortable and ready for that particular role and future roles. It’s also good to challenge yourself as an actor so that you are not constantly type cast, I mean that type cast could also be your brand but know the type of vessel you want to be.

You are also a Make-Up artist, can you share with us some of your experience as being a Make Up Artist? How was the transition for you from being an actor to a Make-Up Artist?

  • I ventured into makeup artistry to keep busy while I auditioned for roles and COVID happened and I don’t like sitting around and waiting for my agent to send me briefs. I wouldn’t say it was a huge transition because makeup aligns with my career and has in fact put me in places that are well aligned with acting. For one to execute a certain character, makeup is required so the two-work hand in hand.

You are a creative person; how has creativity impacted your life? 

  • I am able to think on my feet in any given circumstance, I’m resourceful and adaptable.

Entertaining people is the most difficult task; how did you become interested in this line of work?

  • I’m a born entertainer! I’m always the life of the party and I’m quite talkative so it’s not that difficult of a task for me.

You’re a multi-talented artist with a knack for both Acting, Voice Over and Make Up. What brings you more joy, acting, voice over, and or making up?

  • Acting, because I can always tap into the other roles.

Tell us about somebody you look up to; a person who has shaped the way you think and behave?

  • My mother. She’s a virtuous woman and has instilled so much in me. I continue to learn from her everyday- she’s aggressive with herself, career, business and puts her mind to every thing she does. She’s always looking for a challenge. Her motto is ‘It’s never too late or you’re never too old to start. Whatever you’re destined for will surely meet you along the way’

How has the depiction of violence changed in movies from the ’90s?

  • I think the violence that we see in movies these days is more for entertainment purposes and is didactic in a sense that the audience is made aware that there is CGI (Computer Generated Imagery) and SFX being utilized to create these movies. The violence is merely presentational and most movies are released with the director’s cut as well so that we as the audience learn and not immitate.

How Lekker is the Locally Produced Artworks!!!

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The South African creative sector is replete with creative people who can compete with their international counterparts at all levels. Despite the talents and the gifting by the local artists (creators) need a conducive platform from which to showcase and expose those talents.

In March 19, 2017 South Africans mourned the passing on of the legendary producer, actor, and musician-Joe Mafela who died from a car accident. Many other renowned artists passed on since then and one thing is common there: we did not celebrate our fallen artists until their last breath which triggers lot of noise about their artworks and their expertise.

Maybe it is time to start asking ourselves if we are really appreciating the talents that we have in our midst? In the recent past a film was produced about the former stateman, Mr Nelson Mandela, and the main character was Idris Elba, playing Mandela. On the other hand Naomie Harris plays Mama Winnie (Winnie Mandela) as she is affectionately known by many.

Why did the producers not considered local talents for those roles to play the late(s) Tata Mandela and Mama Winnie Mandela? Why are the roles of such great people in the history of our country been given to people from other countries? Is it because our artists are not good enough in acting? Or simply put, are our artists not good enough to play characters about their own people?

The then Minister of Sports, Mr Fikile Mbalula invited Beyoncé Nowles into the country to perform at the Sports Awards for R5 000 000. Though the artist was not allowed to come to South Africa, we should ask ourselves questions about how we perceive our own talents. Instead of giving the R5000000 to a single individual why not invite 30 musicians and make them share the millions?

We understand the issue of resources playing a role in the quality of work the artists produce, but how will they get the resources if they are not given a chance? There are lot of talented people in this country is going unnoticed as we are paying too much attention on the artists from overseas.

To be an artist in South Africa is difficult as the environment is not conducive. For artists to make it in the creative industry in this country they must work very hard and be prepared to be exploited by the industry veterans.

Local artists are struggling to access the formal industry due to financial constraints. Young and unsuspecting musicians are falling victims of the ruthless producers who are greedy and heartless. Despite the long pronounced high rate of unemployment, the Provincial Local government is quite about assisting local talents.

It is time we embrace and promote local artists than celebrating those that we do not know. Perhaps artists must also start to understand the audiences as people and treat them with respect when they succeed!!!

“Local can only be lekker when you had the opportunity to taste it, otherwise you will be talking about the things that you do not know”.

Interview with an Author and Life Coach, Rahlapane Dingaan!!!

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What inspired you to start writing? I am a certified Life Coach, and this is part of departing information and sharing empowering information with people for them to change their lives for the better.

How long have you been writing? This is my first book and so I guess I have just started writing

When did you start writing? I started writing this book last year, this project was started during the hard lock down

Briefly talk to me about “Resetting One’s Mindset for Success! The title is about the reprogramming of our mindset because most people were programmed since childhood, in fact all children come to this world with the mind that is empty and all they do is to record anything and everything they see and hear. Success is a result of a change in mindset.

What do you expect the readers to get from reading this mind changing book? I expect the readers to realize the unlimited potential and power they have and how to use it.

Can you briefly give us a breakdown and/or summary of this book according to its chapters! Instead of going through the 14 chapters let me group them into four areas; 1st group will be from Chapter 1 to 4 and this is where I talk about the importance of discovering one’s purpose, why it’s important and how to actually go about developing your purpose because without purpose life becomes meaningless.

The other chapter focuses on the importance of identifying your gist and sharing it with the world. Here as well you will find the ways and means of identifying your gift. Then we focus on the developing of your vision to know where you are going because without direction life is frustrating. Lastly, it’s the focus on the importance of setting goals.

2nd area is Chapters 5 to chapter 8: the focus here is on the importance of knowing how your mind works. How to direct and control your mind and master your emotions. It is where the reader leans about the importance of changing your consciousness.

3rd area is Chapter 9 to 12: these are areas where you learn about how to create the life you always wanted. Here I mention and discuss various techniques that helps the reader with reprogramming their mind.

Lastly, we have Chapters 13 to 14: This is where the reader will learn about how to really practice gratitude and how to remain persistence and persevere in the midst of challenges in life.

When did you first consider yourself a writer? I have been writing but not actually thinking of publishing a book. I used to write to accumulate all the knowledge from my life experience and things I have read from other authors. I started concerning the idea of writing a book just before the first lockdown and started writing during the hard lockdown of last year.

Describe your writing space. I prefer to first be primed or motivated so that more ideas can flow from my mind. I mostly prefer writing mostly in the late evenings when the kids are asleep, and everything is calm and relaxed.

Do you hear from your readers much? What do they say? This is my first book, I hope to receive reviews later

Is writing your full-time career? Or would you like it to be? It is part of what I do. I am a Life Coach conducting mindset training programs as well and so writing supports what I do. Yes it’s a full time career.

On a typical day, how much time do you spend writing? 30 min-1 hour

Are you on social media and can your readers interact with you? Yes, my website : www.dingaanrahlapane.co.za, My Facebook page is Dingaan.rahlapane.5, Instagram: Dingaan_rahlapane and YouTube: @dingaanrahlapane

Writing can be an emotionally draining and stressful pursuit. Any tips for aspiring writers? You need to write about what you are passionate about, and in that way it may not be as strenuous as it could have been. The desire to share your story must be at the forefront of your writing a book.

 What advice would you give a new writer, someone just starting out? Writing is merely telling a story that can help someone enjoy telling that story.

How do you deal with emotional impact of a book (on yourself) as you are writing the story? Fortunately, while writing this book I mostly had the emotion of gratitude to be able to share my message with the readers.

Where can readers purchase your book? On my website, www.dingaanrahlapane.co.za or sending direct messages from social media space.

What is the key theme and/or message (s) in the book? Transformation of mindset and changing of habits to attain the life you deserve.

What do you hope your readers take away from this book? I hope they become empowered to tackle life differently with more confidence and courage

Tell us about the process for coming up with the cover. It’s a reflection of the mind.

Where do you get your inspiration? Reading other people’s inspiring work or books

What was your favorite part (getting the book in such a good process), and your least favorite part (having someone show you your blind spots), of the publishing journey? Where can readers find out more about you and your book? On my website and social media mentioned above.

What were the key challenges you faced when writing this book? How to put message in a way that readers can find it easy to understand.

What was the highlight of writing this book? Completion of all the chapters

 Are you working on anything at the present you would like to share with your readers about? I am working on the next book.

Who is your favorite author and why? Tony Robbins, he writes self-help books aimed at helping people become their better self

What books or authors have most influenced your own writing? Tony Robbins.

Who is the author you most admire in your genre? Tony Robbins.

What famous author do you wish would be your mentor? Tony Robbins, and he is my mentor.

If you had to describe yourself in three words, what would they be? Passionate, courageous and creative

What is the definition of success? Living your life purpose

When did you first realize that there is a writer hidden within? I mean when did you realize that you want to become a writer/author? When I had the yearning to share what I know with other people and through my reading of many books.

What is that one thing that makes your writing unique and different from others? It is based on proven principles.

What would you like to suggest to the budding writers or authors? Or what special suggestion you would want to give your fans and budding writers? They must enjoy sharing information with others

Interview with Koketso Charlene Kekana

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  1. Briefly tell Me who you are and what you do? I am Koketso Charlene Kekana, a young lady from Pretoria and I am a “Make- UP Artist, Costume Designer, and an Assistant Director” in the film and television industry.

2. Where did you receive your training as a Make UP artist? At the Tshwane University of Technology Arts Campus.

3. Why is shooting for Camera and lights different than everyday make-up? It’s actually not, the only thing that needs to be monitored is a shiny face because.

4. What area of make-up industry is your favorite and why? Because I get to explore more on special effects Make-up.

5. Can you tell Me about winning an Award for Best Costume and Props Design. I worked on a theatre production “XOVA” which won the Standard Bank Ovation Award at the Nation Arts Festival. The day I got Nominated for the NALEDI THEATRE AWARD was on the 13th September 2020, I couldn’t believe it.

6. You regularly work with some of the most beautiful women. How does that shape your definition of beauty?

Does everyone look better with make up? The only thing I can say is that Make-up enhances what is already there, which means “Make-Up” complement what a person is rather than making them better..

7. What do you love most about doing make up? Getting different faces and tones to explore is the same as painting on a Canvas.

8. Can you tell us about a memorable moment you had while doing make-up.? When I was expected to help out with “Special Effects Make-UP” for the very first time as an INTERN at the “Urban Brew Studios”. It was one of the most amazing moments in my career.

9. What is the most exciting and challenging opportunity you have had as an artist? It has to be me being part of the National Arts Festival twice doing “Make-UP” and “Costume” for both theatrical productions.  

10. What is the project you are most proud of? I’d say all I’ve done because I believe that I’m encouraged to do my best in my next project.

11. How do you keep up with all the new trends and styles? I am an ardent user of Instagram and other social media platforms which helped me to keep myself abreast with the new developments, as well as learning from other artists.

12. What are your tips for maintaining a youthful appearance? Ladies need to give the skin time to breath and also drinking a lot of water can help a lot in this regard.

13. In your opinion, what are the common mistakes women make on their make-up? Choosing the wrong foundation.  

14. What cosmetic products do you use every day? I’d rather call it an essential Oil, Tea tree Oil and Epimax.

15. Can you name some of your favourite hair and makeup products to use? What three make up items should no woman leave home without? What is in your makeup bag? Gloss Powder and Eyebrow Kit.

16. What is the best advice you have gotten as a makeup artist? Less is more unless more is what is needed.

17. What are some of the projects were you involved in, and how important where they to you as a make-up artist? 

The project that I got involved in is “Gomora”, and I got involved in that production as an “Assistant Make- UP” Stand-by, and that reminded me of how really less is more when it comes to powdering artist unless there’s uncontrollable sweat or shine.

18. Where can we see more of your works and get connected with you? I sometimes work on theatre productions at

the South African State Theatre, and also on social media IG and Fb. @kc_Kekana Fb: If Charlene Cooper

19. What would you say is the most difficult part of hair and makeup business? Continuity of “Make-UP” and “HAID-DO” when it comes to TV Productions.

20. What’s been your favorite job you’ve done as a makeup artist? It was for the Amasiko Heritage Festival Project (AHFP) which included where I had to do body art on models.

21. What were your previous duties as a “MAKE-UP ARTIST”? I was doing make-up for a Photo Shoot.

22. How did you begin your career in this industry? I was called to work on my first theatre production “VAMPIRE” at the South African State Theatre’s Development Program (SASTDP), it was one of the most  interesting production for Me.

23. Have you ever had a time when a client left dissatisfied with your work? What did you do? I don’t leave room for such to happen, I interact with clients and ask them if they’re happy with the look or if they would like to change anything.

Interview with Sibongile Modimoyeng!!

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  1. Did you like acting since childhood?

Well, first and foremost I knew I had to be creative while growing up. I enjoyed dancing, drawing in addition to favoring Arts and Culture subject. When growing up I used to play with my friends, and I was told that i liked entertaining people. I enjoyed mimicking personalities and that made people to like me dearly.

2. When did you decided that you want to become an actor?

My schooling was from grade 1 until matric with no intentions of furthering my studies despite been talented in “ACTING” due to lack of knowledge about the industry. Honestly speaking, I only decided to become an ACTOR when I was still in matric in 2013. I knew I need to choose something that I am passionate about and that will make me happy every time I do it. I chose ACTING and that was the GREATEST decision I had ever made in my life.

3. Tell me a little about yourself.

My name is Sibongile Modimoyeng, and I am 27 years old. I hail from Sebokeng, which was formerly known as Vaal Triangle. I am from a family of beautiful, talented, and educated women as can be evidenced by my mother and my young sister. I attended Primary School at Park Ridge Primary School whilst my Secondary school was at Suiderlig Hoerskool.

I relocated to Johannesburg in 2015 to pursue my passion for acting. I enrolled at AFDA (JHB) where I received my Higher Certificate in TV, Film and Entertainment Production in 2016. I later registered with City Varsity School of Media and Creative Arts in Braamfontein where I acquired my Diploma in 2017. To date I am on the verge of sharpening and honing my skills through creative opportunities that comes my way.

4. What do you like about acting and or Film Making the most?

ACTING help Me tell real and lively stories to the world. I am skilled in a way that I can play multiple characters with different personalities. I enjoy relating to a story, and when watching a theatrical play or a film I get absorbed by the play to a point of making me feel as though I am also playing a character in the play and ask myself questions about what i would do if i were a character in a particular situation?

I believe that a story should be conversational, which means when making a short film/film ONE need to be able to connect with their audiences. I advise Producers/Creators to always keep their (target) audience in mind when creating a story because this is the only way to make the film a success.

5. Can you introduce yourself to our audience?

I am Sibongile Modimoyeng, and I am a Professional Actress, an aspiring Filmmaker, and an Entrepreneur in making.

6. When did you start acting? What got you started?

I started ACTING when I was still studying at “City Varsity in the School of Media and Creative Arts”. What got me started was the “INTENTION to proving myself wrong as i had conflicting ideas about my passion. There is a story about my first class at City Varsity: there was a brief for us to prepare a Monologue through which to showcase our talent to the Lecturers.

I did not do well with the presentation of the monologue because i had completely forgot my lines. That was my very first-time experiencing stage fright, and to date that experience made me bolder and confident to a point where I don’t want to ever experience something like that again. It is just crazy how that experience is more like my motivational move.

7. Do you like something other than Acting?

Yes, I am now into Scriptwriting, and it’s something that I want to major in and master in the near future.

8. Why did you choose Acting and or Filmmaking?

I am a story-teller who uses her body to tell real life stories and using my body as an instrument to connect with the audience and their world. I chose ACTING because of my UNIQUE ability to portray different characters who appears in different ways: (physically, emotionally, mentally, or spiritually). I am confident that through the role that I play I will be able to CONVEY the INTENDED message across to the audience, and it will help them to face their challenges head-on and to emerge motivated.

9. What attracted you to begin a Career as an Actor and or a Film Maker?

I always loved the idea of seeing myself on Stage and/or on TV Screen in addition to being able to tell my stories in my own way suited to the audience. Just imagining a story, writing it down, and transforming it into a beautiful masterpiece.

10. How are you feeling now after getting the “Ishashalazi” Award?

It made Me feel worthy, and it gave Me an assurance that I am on the right path. It boosted my confidence level and made me aware of how talented I am, and that I should never give up regardless of the challenges.

11. Who are your biggest influencers

My influencers are the creative people across the world, from whom I have learned and been inspired by their creativity ,more especially because in the acting industry we learn about diversity. And telling stories differently.

12. How and when exactly did you realize you had the passion for acting?

I realized that I have a passion for acting when I performed a personal piece for my lecturer Ntombi Nkuna, who helped and molded Me into the ACTRESS I am today. It was an EMOTIONAL PIECE that helped Me discover how talented I was in the manner that I PRESENTED the MONOLOGUE.

13. Which role that you have played you liked the most?

The role that I liked the most is a story written and directed by Charlie Samson (A Legend in a Making) called TOXIC which is airing now on “YouTube” under “KWETHU ARTS”. I played a CHARACTER called Amanda and her ROLE in the story was just about SCREAMS of a woman who is drowning in a TOXIC relationship because of “All in the name of Love”, but soon realizes that love is never enough and knowing your worth is the sweetest medicine to knowing what’s best for you.

14. Tell us something about your appearances on Mzanzi Magic Movies & Small Screen Appearances?

This year around June I had an appearance for a Mzanzi Magic movie called PHAKATHI EGOLI, brilliantly written and directed by Thabiso Mkhize, starring Trevor Gumbi and Siyabonga Twala where I played a mean RECEPTIONIST who is does not CARE about the visitors, but about seeing herself at home. It was a drama-comedy, and I enjoyed every part of it.

15. What, according to you, is the best part of your work?

The best part of my work is waking up every morning and knowing very well that my work doesn’t feel like a job. The greatest feeling ever!

16. Tell us about the toughest part of your work? And why do you think it is tough for you?

The toughest part about my work is not getting stable employment, and the stress of getting a gig after a gig which is a bit frustrating, but I completely understand because I signed up for that. That’s why it is important for me to have different sources of income by creating or expanding my skill set in this industry.

17. If anything, you would be asked to change about your work, what would be that one thing?

One thing that I would change about my job is the “lack of trust in this industry”, but since this is a competitive industry it makes sense. I have learned to grow and never repeat the same mistake again.

18. The entertainment industry is said to be full of stress and pressure; what do you do to tackle the pressure that comes with your work?

I believe that my journey is mine alone, and I should be able to be patient with my success and never compare myself with anyone. With that being said, I always have a “GOAL in ACTION”, and I always make sure it is set and done, and that keeps me going. I always strive to IMPROVE my CRAFT every day, which is to take care of my mental health and wellbeing.

19. Which is your best role so far?

The best role so far as mentioned is Amanda from TOXIC web series on YouTube.

20. Describe your last experience on stage.

In 2018, I attended Duma Ndlovu Academy for a year, and my last experience on stage was performing my graduation piece where I performed a novel called “A RAISIN IN THE SUN”, a play by Lorraine Hansberry, altogether with Bongie Khotso, Thabiso Mkhize, and Percy Mbanjwa.

21. What was your longest-running role on stage?

My longest-running role on stage was when I performed “The Kaffirs”, written and directed by Charlie Samson, it was a 60 minutes long piece and I played the CHARACTER named Lisa at The National Arts Festival in 2017.

22. Do you have experience ACTING in Television or Film?

Yes, I do the movie is called PHAKATHI EGOLI and it aired on Mzanzi Magic in June 2021.

23. What is the first thing you do to research and approach a role?

I research the character’s background and their influencers (supporting characters) regarding their personalities/ interests. This gives me a clear foundation on who the character really is and that helps me as an ACTOR to play around with different emotions and to understand the core of the character.

24. What experience do you have in developing accents for specific roles?

The experience that I have regarding developing accents was for “The Kaffirs” and I had to do a colored accent for Lisa’s role.

25. Are you flexible enough to work on short notice as a stand-in? How quickly can you assume a new role?

I would like to believe that I am flexible enough. The role Lisa for “The Kaffirs” I did not audition for it. I was an understudy for at least 2 weeks, it was a challenging role because 1st I had to improvise my whole dialogues with the other actors, 2nd I had to develop a Colored accent, 3rd I had to be on beat with my jokes because it was a theatrical drama-comedy.  And to wing this role made me realized how much potential and talent I have after all you can never teach anyone that.

26. Are there things you want to do other than Acting?

Other than acting I am in the works of building and strengthening my Media Production Company called “LEOZAC PICTURES, this baby of mine will help me tell my own stories from start to finish and give potential creatives equivalent opportunities to tell their own stories too.

27. What are some of the difficulties of the acting business?

I have experienced a lot of difficulties and from those experiences, the one that stands out is a whole entire idea being wrongfully stolen from me. From drafting to how it should be executed-. So, my advice to young creatives out there like me is to copyright, copyright, and copyright your work.

28. What’s challenging about bringing a script to life?

Well, I don’t have any experience in this, but what I would like to believe is writing a script that is too complex and that is generally not involving the audience emotionally will make your story unsuccessful.

29. What is your reaction to the people, who mimic you?

One word clownery. Ha-ha its crazy how people who really know me gets to mimic me, “Insanely Funny”.

30. List some of your accomplishments in the field of Acting.

Wow! Where do I even begin? Winning the “Ishashalazi Awards” for the Kaffirs, being part of the best-production for The National Arts Festival in 2017, doing “The Kaffirs” rehearsal with Agus Gibson – the Iconic South Africa Film and TV Director, Co-Writer for numerous documentary series and TV Shows, being a Lead Actress for TOXIC Web Series and honestly working with GREAT and GENIUS actors and actresses in my field of work.

31. Describe your most challenging role to date.

I am not sure that I understand this question. HAHA

32.Where do you see your career in five years as an Actor?

Honestly, life is unpredictable to try and read where will you be in 5 years but surely, I believe that my ACTING Career would have had a breakthrough and I will still be seen on Local TV Screens and Stages, while my media company is operating successfully for it to produce incredible real-life stories. But most importantly I will still be happy and grateful for the decision I took of being an ACTRESS.

33. What is your strength as an Actor?

My strength is the EMOTIONAL moments I bring to life and STILLNESS in every moment of the SCENE. Also, the focus and consistency of the character.

34. How do you rehearse a scene if the other ACTORS you need to interact within the scene are not available?

I always learn my lines first and once that’s done, I learn their lines too. So, I am aware of when it my turn to say my lines. This helps me to flow through my DIALOGUE with other ACTORS. As well as building up obstacles to evoke emotions.

35. Where do you go to Practice Loud Vocal Exercises?

The safest space to do that is in my bedroom.

36. Who do you consider to be your ACTING role model whose Career you would like to emulate, and Why?

If not Thuso Mbedu, I don’t know who else. She is a remarkable young drama actress who is an Emmy Award Nominee (now that speaks volumes to me). With her talent and passion, she always channels her extraordinary emotions without a miss and executes her roles always. She is such a humble soul but a beast in every role she gets. Surely, a star was born and for me learning from someone like this is the greatest achievement of all.

37. What techniques do you use to create a believable character?

Stanislavski System – the “art of experiencing”. Where the actor channels himself in the character’s conscious thoughts and that helps the ACTOR to be activated and less- controllable coming to psychological processes such as emotional experience and subconscious behavior whether it is systematically or indirectly. This really helps me to become more of the character and believable too.

38. When did you first realize that you want to work in the entertainment industry?

I first realized when I want to work in the entertainment industry the moment, I chose to study to become a Professional Actress in 2015.

39. When did you realize that this is the field that you would want to explore?

Well, when I noticed how broad this field is and how everything connects to one thing. I can either be behind the scenes, be in the limelight or both. And I must say I prefer both.

40. How do you prepare in advance for a role?

I do a brief reading of all the character’s backgrounds, read through the whole script just to get a better understanding of the character’s goal. This helps me as an actor to know who I am dealing with emotionally and the obstacles at hand. Then I start being creative and play around with the script, as I continue to discover my character bit by bit.

41. How difficult it is to establish yourself in the film industry?

It is hard to establish yourself in the film industry because, 1st you compete with experienced actors, 2nd you need to build up your brand, and it’s sad because social media plays a very big part of your success and talent is never enough. But like all industry, there is competition and you always need to prove yourself and within that process. I always tell myself fame comes easy but never greatness, so I need to keep on pushing every day because “Rome was not built in a day”.

42. You are involved in almost every aspect of a Filmmaking, be it Film Writing, or Producing or Acting, or Directing, which one do you like the most?

I am more involved in ACTING because that is what I majored in and that’s my first love (passion) right there.

43. Describe your ACTING STYLE?

My ACTING STYLE is diverse. I love challenging myself and trying different CHARACTERS. I feel like that makes me grow as an ACTOR.

44. How do your friends treat you after you became a CELEBRITY? 

I have a long way to be considered a CELEBRITY, I’m an upcoming ACTRESS and my friends have always supported my success from day one. They can never treat me otherwise because I do believe that title “CELEBRITY” can never change who I am but would change my lifestyle.

45. Which fictional character would be the most exciting to meet in real life?

It must be Jay Gatsby from the novel “The Great Gatsby” played by Leonardo DiCaprio. You must love this guy!

46. What was your motivation behind a successful ACTOR?

That my journey can never be compared to others. That I have something that someone out there is looking for. And giving up is not in my vocabulary.

47. When you decided to be an ACTOR, did your family support you?

Yes! Yes! Yes! My mother supported me 100%, she sacrificed so much for me to be in the best media and art schools. She did not really understand this industry, but she believed that I was born to be a star. I am sure now she sees the fruits that are starting to be realized.

48. Have you progressed in your ACTING Career as you have expected?

Well, this year must be the peak of my progressing acting career. I did not expect it to go this way, but I always had faith that something will come through.

49. How important is developing a personal style when it comes to ACTING ?

Well, I would say MENTAL HEALTH is more important than PERSONAL STYLE. Yes, you do need to be looking the part but if you’re not emotional, psychological, and physically fit then there’s no progress in your acting career.

50. You are also a Director; can you share with us some of your experience as being a Director? How was the transition for you from being an ACTOR to a DIRECTOR?

It is in my future list to become a director and tell my story through my vision.

51. What, in your opinion, is the most important quality in a Film Director?

I would say leadership skills as well as knowledge of the media production and constructive communication.

52. You are a creative person; how has creativity impacted your life? 

Being a creative person makes me see the world through a different lens. Sometimes, my creativity is so complex that it makes it hard for an ordinary person to get but that’s the pros and cons of being creative that you should know that not everyone will ever understand or like your ideas.

53. Entertaining people is the most difficult task; how did you become interested in this line of work?

I have never encountered such because I am always true to myself and as authentic as I am it makes it easier for people to like me or even get entertained for that matter.

54. You’re a multi-talented artist with a knack for both Acting and Film Making. What brings you more joy, acting or film making?

I should say acting because my responsibility is to bring the story to life and that is the best joy ever to know that the message was brought across for someone out there who needs it.

55. Tell us about somebody you look up to; a person who has shaped the way you think and behave?

It is my mother; she plays a huge part in life to the woman I am today. I am such a strong, talented, intelligent woman because of her given daily wisdom in my life and she continues to mold me in becoming a better person in life. I could write a whole novel just talking about the great influence of my mother in my life.

56. How has the depiction of violence changed in movies from the ’90s?

The 90’s movies concerning violence have definitely laid a foundation for movies that we watch today. From serial killers to blockbusters movies, it created a culture of being part of the filmmaker’s lovers, it was epic to watch an action movie even through a black and white TV because of how captivating it was to watch all of that fight scenes or explosions turned viewers into film fanatics till this day.

Heritage Day at Badirile Secondary School

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Heritage Day which is on the 24th September 2021 was celebrated on the 23rd September 2021, to recognize and celebrate the cultural diversity and wealth of the nation. Teachers at Badirile Secondary School celebrated the day in style as they had to juggle between teaching and learning and to ensure that a “decent cultural meal” is prepared to celebrate South Africa’s roots, their rich, vibrant, and diverse cultures represented at the school: Badirile Secondary School’s Rainbow Community.

South Africans celebrate the day by remembering the cultural heritage of the many cultures that make up the population of South Africa. Various events will be staged throughout the country on the 24th September 2021 to commemorate this day.

WHAT IS HERITAGE DAY IN SOUTH AFRICA?

Heritage Day, once known as Shaka Day, is celebrated in South Africa on September 24th every year. Shaka Day was originally named in honour of the legendary Zulu king, Shaka Zulu, who convinced multiple Zulu clans to stand together in unity against the Boers and the British.

This day of commemoration was included in the Bill of Rights in 1996 as a Public Holiday but with a name change to Heritage Day. This was and still is an all-inclusive day on which to celebrate the heritage of all South Africans (for all of the diverse cultures to come together, unified, to celebrate their particular unique heritage and contribution to South Africa history.

Why Do We Celebrate Heritage Day?

There is nothing more South Africans can do rather than celebrating who they are and where they are coming from as a nation-our background and what makes us to be who we are as a country. There are invaluable lessons we learn from each other as people following our different cultures and traditions which must be transferred from one generation to the ones to come so that we do not lose our identity.

What about the Youth in this Country?

Though the country recognizes and celebrate “Heritage Day”, one can deduce that not enough is been done to sustain the diverse cultures that we have in this country. The ceremonies conducted across the country are dominated by elderly people who seem to know and understand where they are coming from, rather than ensuring that the day is shared fully with the youth. One would even suggest that learners and schools should be given resources to promote and popularize the day amongst the learners in order to sustain the day.

Is enough been done to sustain the rich and diverse Cultures in this Country?

Not everyone will agree with the notion that much is been done in order to protect and nurture the rich and diverse cultures of this country. Arguably speaking, one can say that the country only remembers “Heritage Day” only during September month-which is used to promote and plan for the celebrations across the country.

Whilst we are satisfied with the little reach we make across the country, we are gradually losing the opportunities to pass the (cultural) button to the youth-who had already lost the meaning and the importance of (June 16,1976) Youth Day. If we are to be relevant and effective in reaching and recapturing our youth, it is would be invaluable for South Africans (Department of Sports, Arts & Culture in particular) to stop allocating resources to celebrate in the Offices, but to reach out to the ordinary men on the streets.

Whatever you choose to do to celebrate National Heritage Day, enjoy it with friends and family, wave the South African flag proudly, and remember your heritage and the place it holds in South Africa’s multicultural landscape. If you’re at work in South Africa, you can still celebrate a South African Heritage Day by hosting your own Cultural food wherever you are. Let the SOUTH AFRICAN FLAG Fly high as we Celebrate Heritage Day.


Interview with Kgosietsile Monoto

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  1. Briefly tell Me Who you are as an artist?

I am Rre-Dot

What is in the name and or Why the Name?

I got the name when I was still young and still learning. I later discovered that I am an Old Soul, that is why I added the “Rre”-which means “Ntate” or rather a father figure.

In Setswana “Rre” is an authoritative figure and the words of a father are respected, and failure to obey means that one loses the path.

2. What do you do as an artist?

I am a Poet, Mmoki and a Vocalist. I am currently working with a group called Bantu-Gang-Star and I am a Vocalist and Poet as well.

The current developments with the band is that we have met with different people from different walks of life. Interestingly, we have an opportunity of the forum availed itself which shed a light that will change and revolutionize the lives of the local people.

3. When did you started with this journey of been an artist (Vocalist, Mmoki and Poet)?

I started the journey in 2007, and by then I was still a scholar at UJ (University of Johannesburg) where I had mentors, specifically speaking, Napo Mashiane.

4. What are the memorable moments for you as an artist (Poet, Vocalist and Mmoki).

It was in Grahamstown where there was a show directed by Napo Mashiane which was about a “Big Phat Lady”. The second one was about sharing a stage with Lebo Mashile in Newtown , Johannesburg during the Cultural Exchange Faith Tourists from Armsterdam.

5. What is your regret about been an artist?

It took a lot of my studies because I later discovered that I immersed much on the arts.

6. How did you come out of the arts?

It was always a TAG of WAR between my studies and my creative work.

7. Where did you get your creativity from?

I got it from my mother only recently.

8. How did you find out?

I spend a decade away from home and when at home I wanted to know my ancestral background, only to find that my mother was and always has been Mmoki for her clan.

9. Do you like your artistic work?

Yes, and we also have started a Non-Profit Organization (NPO) called Khutsong Literary Club which is based at 7910 Nche Street Ext 2.

10. When did you established the NPO? Which position are you holding there?

We established it in 2013 and registered it in 2015. I am the Public Officer.

11. Is there a buy-in by the community with regard to what you are doing?

The community shows interest, but limited interest in a sense they will also speak positive about what we are doing though they do not commit financially.

12. What are the challenges that you are facing as artists?

What you hear and when you get to know more about the artists is two different stories in that the picture that is portrayed on media is different to the reality of their lives, eg, Don Matera, Kgafela Oa Magogodi, Ntate Rampolokeng, etc

13. What (do you think) makes the artists to hold on even when it is tough and challenging out there?

Innate dream of formerly great people who hoped that what is presented can change the world, and is an excursion for them. For them is like a gospel to which they aim to reach as many people as they possibly can.

14. What is your message to the readers and aspiring artists?

Creatives are here on the face of the earth to create nobility, inform principles and live a life of light. When you become a Creative, you become the brush of the Master Scroll.

15. What is your ambition?

Art is a weapon to be utilized in a way that can inform and instruct us. The vision is to collectivize our art forms to build a protective base for the artists.

Interview with Anthony Nwahiri

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  1. Briefly talk to Me about Anthony Nwahiri and what he does as an artist?

I am Anthony Nwahiri from the Eastern part of Nigeria, Imo state precisely. I’m an actor and voice-over artist. Though I have been acting for some years back, my journey to the big screens professionally began last year. Asides movies, I’ve also featured on music videos and commercials. I also got a nomination last year in the fast rising actor category of All Variety Award.

You are an Actor, Jingles/Voice-Over Artist, Singer, Rapper, and Motivational Speaker, which one best describes you here, and why?

As I said earlier, I’m best described as an actor and voice-over artist. Though I sing and rap mostly as a hobby, I’m still open to opportunities such as creating jingles for brands and commercials. But basically, I feature in Nollywood movies and look forward to being on the International screens soon.

What describes your day as an artist, and why?

My day as an actor is pretty interesting. I normally begin with my prayers before I head off to the gym. The rest of day is dependent on my plans. So I could create monologues or go for auditions. Most of the time, I spend my day at the movie location, doing what I know how to do best – acting.

It seem to me you spend most of your time as an Actor and/or a Motivational speaker, do you want to talk me through this two, please?

Yes, I spend most of my time as an actor, which I have earlier discussed. Being a motivational speaker comes naturally to me because I love encouraging people with my words.

Which genre is your music, and why is that important to you?

For songs, I go with RnB because that’s the genre that suits my voice texture. I also write songs that depict my feelings and the genre just fits perfectly.

Can you talk me through your motivation and or inspiration in Singing, Acting, Voice Over Artist, and your role as a Motivational Speaker!! What skills do you require to be able to perform all the roles effectively and successively?

One skill that have helped me is consistency. I have always been consistent in all I do. Another one is mastery and creativity. Whatever I find myself doing, I make sure I master it to perfection, adding my own special blend of creativity too!

Can you talk to me about :

(a)“Who are your target audience”, what influenced the decision to target them as your main people?

(b) “Where are your audiences and how do you reach them with your artworks?

(a) My target audience cuts across everyone that ensures that my movies are exceptional, from the crew to fellow actors and the fans too.

(b)My audience is basically online and that’s why I regularly create monologues and other artistic works on my social media platform.

Who are you collaborating with and what do you stand to benefit in that collaboration?

For now, I’ll describe myself as a freelancer. So I collaborate with people based on the contact available at that particular time.

When did you start Acting, Jingles/Voice-Over Artist, Singing, Rapping, and Motivational Speaking?

I started acting since I was a teen but as I explained earlier, it became professional early last year.

What is it that you expect the listeners/ audiences to get from your artworks (referring to what you do as an artist)? What does the artworks communicate about your personal life as most artists uses their artworks to express themselves?

 As an actor, I want to artistically depict reality to viewers. They should see me acting and be able to feel real like it’s a real life situation. I act according to the script I’m given so I wouldn’t say my skills depict who I really am. 

Are there any artists who inspire you? What qualities do you admire about them?

Denzel Washington is one actor that inspires me a lot. I like him because of the way he interprets his character and the way he motivates the youths in the field.

Describe your worst performance. What did you learn from this experience?

My worst experience was when I went extra mile for a job and still didn’t get a complete pay. That happened when I just began my journey but I’m wiser now.

Which qualities do you think make a great artist?

Diligence, commitment, and consistency

What is your advice to the aspiring artists?

I’ll advise them to be committed to themselves and to their skills. With commitment, comes consistency and with consistency, you’ll get a reward.

Tshego Maloka, a Singer, Songwritter, IT graduate and Entrepreneur!!

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“Tshego M”, whose real name is “Tshegofatso Maloka” is a singer, songwriter, IT graduate and Entrepreneur, who was born and raised in Tshwane, Pretoria. She is a vocalist and an entry level music producer.

Tshego M is an independent musician who is not signed to any label. She founded “Tshego Mjazz Media” in 2019, through which she has released all her singles under. Her type of genre in music is Jazz, though she sometimes features on other genres.  “I worked with Cwell Media and Music, a PR company I worked with from 2018 till November 2019”, said Tshego.

The song , “O Morena” was released in 2019, it means “He is Lord”. The track has emotional connections to Tshego M as she wrote the song when she was  unemployed, degraded and verbally abused for being unemployed by people she had opened her heart to receive as her new family. The song is meant to inspire anyone who feels hopeless,destitute and is going through hurt and discouragement in life.

Jabulani  was released in 2019 as well, it’s a song I wrote for women who are going through the most in their marriages where men are cheating and are constantly putting side chicks first even before their families. Jabulani is a male name we chose to use and Jabulani is a sad song where a woman is telling her man that he’s breaking her hurt.

On the other hand, “Jabulani”, is a song released in 2019, same year as “O Morena” though it was written for women who are going through the most in their marriages where men are allegedly cheating and putting “side chicks” firs before their families.  Jabulani is a male name chosen  to echo  woman’s feelings about (Jabulani) him breaking her heart.

“I worked with Juvinale Dee in 2009 on a song called “Tsela Tshweu”, which is a song about an individual who is not happy about what is happening in their  the love-life and contemplates to part ways with their lover. “Tsela Tshweu” meaning “Go well” and/or “Let’s part ways”,said Tshego M.

Like any other musician, Tsego M is inspired by Lira, Zonke, Berita and Sjava, who are honest about their sound and also how their songs appeals to her. If there is something which Tshego M has learned as a musician is to give the audience what they want in addition to playing with “keys there and there”.

I honestly want to concede that my first performance with the late Gabriel Mabi Thobejani was my worst because I was nervous, especially because it was my first time engaging with a huge audiences”, said Tshego M.

“If there is any skill that I am grateful to God for granting it to me is my ability to connect with the hearts of the people through my emotional writing skills”, said Tshego M.

Interview with Dan Akinlolu

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Director/Producer of Son of Gomorrah

This interview was published on June 23, 2021

What was the inspiration behind making this short film?

‘Son of Gomorrah’ is a personal creative exercise, it is one of my experimental short film were I tried to narrate the last hour escapade of a gangster before his death with the intention to capture a killer’s story within a particular timeline. I have always believe that there are conflicts in the mind of every man in that last moment of executing key decisions wether good or bad because our affirmation of what is good or bad is flawed and prejudiced therefore the possibility of holding back or going forward can mean a lot of different things to different people. For instance when Allen was pointing the gun and about to pull the trigger that killed his girlfriend, it took him quiet a bit of time to do so, not because he cant kill but because it will change some thing in him. I tried the momentum of the soundtrack to build towards his intension of right and wrong.

My influence is peculiar within the premise of telling African stories in a manner that is unique and without straying from a plot structure of character building. I wanted to experiment with a film where dialogue are less engaged but through action and emotion.I have always wanted to grow my filmmaking intelligence and skills by building a fully developed character within a short space of narrative timeline.

It is difficult to build such timeline because you will always find yourself sacrificing some certain element to achieve anything that can accommodate such narratives. As a film director, I love to see actors expressing themselves to their fullest and without hindrance because I want them to perform more from their heart than froM their head. To me when acting is too intelligent and perfect if affect how the audience invest in their emotion in the narratives and also how they participate in the experience of the characters.

Was there any particular challenges you had to go through to make the short film happen?

Filmmaking is hard and consuming, every short film project presents it is own challenges. ‘Son of Gomorrah’ was not a perfect story, it is a basic narrative that is complex to execute. I remember during the day two on the set of ‘Son of Gomorrah’, the script was not driving my creative intention. The location was full of elemental characters that i had to switch the concept to the benefit of the location and give more capacity for improvisation. The experimental concept is not to make the actors engage each other in conversations because my intention was to subtitle their though processes, while they connect emotionally with non-verbal feedback.

The experiment presents its own challenges even in post production because I allowed the story to tell and drive itself to a direction and a particular precipitated conclusion to support the visuals. Scripts are important but if it stands in the way of performances I would rather compromise the dialogue to give more space for performance that comes from the heart than the strict lines that comes from the head.

How has the short film been received?

The short film has its share of criticism but at the moment, it has been selected, nominated and shortlisted for 2021 AFFA festival awards, although I see it more as an average narratives that could be better because it was personal creative experiment, I wasn’t really thinking of audience accepting the short film with a “waow” factor.

Do you have any other projects in the pipeline?

I’m always working on film projects. I am actually in the post production and re-mastering of my feature film ‘Les Mascaraders’. while i am prepping for my next feature film production ‘Eiye Olongo’ (Black Robin) principal photography will start in the coming months. In fact my desk is always full of production timeline and options because I am more grounded in Afrocentric narratives because my audiences are blacks and Africans in the diaspora. I get self-absorbed in any story or creative plots that explore issues of immigration, black identity and African culture, or social dilemma, they always suck me in hence most of my film intend to explore those thematic preoccupation.

What advice would you give to anyone wanting to make their first short film?

Finding your voice in the creative universe takes alot years, time and practices. My best advice to young filmmaker is for them to relentlessly pursue their expression and not to be confined to or by any particular directorial influence. The film audience taste is changing and it changes rapidly either through technology or social conformation. Unfortunately there is no creative or corporate promotion in the filmmaking career but experience is the goal.It’s therefore pivotal that the journey to becoming a lucrative filmmaker is also remunerated with experience that is full of both failure and success. Try to tell a good story in your own way because good story is the bedrock of cinema.

And finally, be a filmmaker who knows his tool, enhance yourself with technical skills that is peculiar to the department of filmmaking – be a director who is skilled film editing, lighting or cinematography. It makes your creative processes more mature and elevates your depth of creative understanding to a dynamic height

Click Here To Watch ‘Son of Gomorrah’

Schooling in SA in the age of the Pandemic

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The advent of Covid-19 has brought drastic changes in the lives of ‘all’ around the world with people having to adapt and to acquaint themselves with the “new normal”. Peoples’ normal ways of conducting their daily lives and work has been affected by the prevailing situation. Whether people like it or not, the pandemic is still going to be with us for a long time as long as people are not adhering to strict Covid-19 rules which requires them to wash/sanitise their hands regularly, put on their masks at all times, keep social distance and continue to avoid social gatherings which are regarded as super-spreaders.

In the recent week leading to the announcement by the Minister of Basic Education, Angie Motshekga, we have seen learners taking to the streets protesting against what they term as “the inability of school management in Gauteng to disclose their Covid-19 status”. These learners deduced that the practice puts their lives at risk as some teachers continue teaching without observing Covid-19 precautionary measures.

Whilst the reasons for the learner’s protests are understandable and valid, it’s however, contradictory that the same are not adhering to social distancing. This, we believe, counters their motive as it seems as if they do not know what they are doing!! Their demand is one, “Let the schools close with immediate effect in order to save lives”. This view seem to concur with the one raised by some political parties who called for total shutdown of schools by the Minister of Basic Education, Angie Motshekga, or else they will close them themselves.

Lives matters and education is invaluable to this kids and to the country as a whole as this learners are tomorrow’s workforce. Perhaps the RSA (Republic of South Africa) should mediate and bring about a reasonable decision that will cater for the needs of all the citizens of this country. Even after the president’s (President Cyril Ramaphosa) announcements of the lockdown, we are still hearing complaints by people from other sectors of the economy who felt that moving the country to Lock-down level 4 will cripple the economy and many people will lose employment!!

Rabaloi JM is a teacher and an analyst who writes in his own capacity and his views and believes does not represent those of Art-tainment Magazine and its management. To write back to us and to comment to the stories in this platform you can SIGN-IN to make your views heard. Art-tainment Magazine is an artistic magazine which affords artists and creative people the opportunity to promote and popularize the artworks of artists in South Africa and across the globe.

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Mpho Molikeng,the One in all artist of Our time!!

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Mpho Molikeng is a renowned one -in many artists who hails from Lesotho. He is one of the creative and unique artist who has mastered the skills of involving himself in many disciplines of arts which ultimately earned him a title of been a multi-faceted artist . Far from playing a number of African instruments such as lesiba, mamokhorong, setolo, mbira, and djembe, he is also known for been a Curator, Actor, Musician, Poet, Painter, Story-teller and cultural activist.

Molikeng studied Fine Arts with Bloemfontein College in 1995. He continued studying Drama at Soyikwa Institute of African Theatre in 1998. In 2016 Molikeng was the co-facilitator at the Music In Africa Instrument Building and Repair Workshop, in addition to been a visiting lecturer at Wits University in Johannesburg in 2017.

“I constantly reinvent and reconfigure myself as well as enjoying new challenges in life, especially engaging in new projects”, said Molikeng. He conceded that focusing and prioritizing projects is important in that one will channel all the resources and their energy one significant project, which will ultimately be successful. “I am a hard worker who can paint in the morning, rehearse an instrument in the afternoon, as well as writing a proposal for a project in the evening, and still be able to read a book before going to bed”, said Molikeng. Even though I am an artist with many talents i have learnt to focus my attention on doing “one thing at a time and enjoy seeing it coming to fruition”.

As much as he is competent playing almost all indigenous instruments such as Lesiba, Sekgankula, Lekope, Lekolilo, Setolo-tolo, Sekebeku, Mbira, Marimba, Drums, Uhadi, Umakhoyane, Thomo, Mokhope, Marothloane, Lekhitlane, Kudu-horn, Dinaka and many more, Mpho Modikeng’s approach to using the instruments differ from phase to phase. “A lot of my work lately is in music more than other types of the arts as I find lot of opportunities therein than in other”, said Molikeng. Only time and circumstances dictate to me which instrument I must use, but not using others does not mean that I have neglected them.

Like many other artists in the world who inherited music from their families, he too took it from his mother who was involved in music, and had sang with bands in the early 70’s in Maseru. “I was never brought up to be an artist, I am because I defied my mother. I just loved doing stuff with my hands, I sung in choirs, I was generally active in different activities both at school and in my village”, said Molikeng.

Even though he can play Sekgankula, Lekope, Lekolilo, Setolo-tolo, Sekebeku, Mbira, Marimba, Drums, Uhadi, Umakhoyane, Thomo, Mokhope, Marothloane, Lekhitlane, Kudu-horn, Dinaka, his journey was indifferent in that he wanted to learn “Lesiba” because it was a difficult instrument for many to play. “I tried different instruments and in no time I will get a big collection of those instruments, said Molikeng.

Mpho Molikeng became the director of the company called Menu Of Arts (MOA) in 2009 during the economic melt-down in Lesotho. In 2011 I had the privilege of performing in a one man Show festival at the Jo’burg Theatre. My entry into the industry was marked by my “One Man Shows”, which I wrote and performed. Two of the shows which were awarded the best written production were ‘The Cone’ and ‘This Operation” which were meant for WindyBrow Festival in “2001 and 2003” respectively.

I wanted a festival that would honour some of the best writers and performers of one man shows in their lifetime and use my festival as a conducive platform to achieve my goals. I am a visionary, and have good ideas to work on, but funding is always a challenge. “I stopped after that one festival you know, but if I can get funds any time soon I would do the show every year or twice a year if not every Sunday”, said Molikeng.

“I always loved performing live over a studio session, I don’t have a big catalogue, but I have been fortunate to have people across the globe whom I have collaborated with on projects that led to many others thereafter”. As a poet I enjoyed performing with others at the “Joburg Poetry Sessions” of the late 90’s right into 2000’s. I curated two Solo Exhibitions ‘Rambling 22’ at “The Workers Library” in 2011 and ‘Tattoo’ at the “Jo’burg City Library” in 2014 which later went to Museum Africa.

I acted in my own shows and featured in few Industrial theater shows. As a Storyteller, I worked with Zanendaba Storytellers, Kwesukela Storytelling Academy and I got invited to share stories and music at the “SA National Storytelling” day in Durban from which I did a lot of Corporate Events.

Molikeng is of the view that the advent of Covid-19 (Corona Virus) has brought about many challenges to the industry, and has forced all of us to “Press- a- Reset button”. The pandemic has forced most people to work remotely with few others, and I am currently relearning and unlearning lot of stuff”, said Molikeng. One of his new releases is a single which is a tribute and a petition to/for Letsema Matšela called ‘Likhomo Matšela’ and many which are yet to follow.

In 2013 I featured in “Africa and West Collide”, where I had already started collaborating with a few improvisers around the world with the intent of changing the perception about African Indigenous Musical Instruments (AIMI).

It is true that as artists we express ourselves through our artworks. “For me the art helped me to escape my own life as I had a lot going on, but through the arts I was in a better position to deal with my own baggage, said Molikeng. I then realized the need to resurrect our forgotten musical gems which was gathering dust in the lives of creative people who were adamant to tapping in that territory. Only a handful of artists persisted as we wanted our music to feature prominently in the mainstream music. We taught people to listen and appreciate music, and ultimately we inspired young people who are currently dire players of those instruments (that we used).

Molikeng is adamant about leaving a legacy by adapting a song of “Letsema Matšela” and gave it a millennial feel. “I am open to collaborate with other artists as that gives me an opportunity to grow and to find new ways to execute my own work”, said Molikeng. I am always working on a new project with someone outside my own scope and there is more coming this year just not at liberty to share now as they still premature.

Mpho Molikeng’s favorite artist is Salif Keita whose vocal power makes him to love African music dearly. There are lots of other artists who inspires Molikeng for various reasons, which makes me conclude by saying, “the future of Africa is in its indigenous cultures, and if properly followed Africa would heal without an effort”.

“Letsema Matšela’s Sesotho is a library every Mosotho shouldn’t be without”, said Molikeng.

Maru the Revelation Chapter 2

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“Maru the Revelation Chapter 2″is a project that was created to glorify and honor God Almighty for His mercies and grace upon Mr Moeketsi’s life after having faced the storms of life. The song is sung with a bold and confident voice which appears to be saying, “I know the Lord will make a way for me, for me”, which lays bare the hope and faith that is placed on the God and father of our Lord Jesus Christ.

I am healed is a track from which the audience and/or listeners will learn to trust in God Who is both the healer and the restorer of lives, especially for those who trust in His saving grace. On the other hand, the track is a “statement of faith or confession by someone who had laid their faith in God with the expectation that God will heal them. Worship and praises are words of faith to extol God for Who He is in our lives and what He has done for us through the cross of His one and only begotten Son Jesus Christ. Here, Moeketsi speaks like many who got touched by the hand of the Lord Jesus Christ and ended having a song of praise like many others who got healed by the man of the cross. I am healed

“Ke tsamaya jwalo ka botlhe, lenna ketle ke mo rorise. Ke thabile ke fodile, ke bona ka mahlo”, this are the words spoken by the blind Bartimaeus (whose name is primarily a male name of Greek origin that means Honorable Son) who got healed by Jesus Christ. I am healed is a confirmation statement to speak about the changes which has happened in one’s life. “I am healed”, said Moeketsi. My back was aagainst the wall, been hopeless and on the verge of giving up, but the Lord God Almighty came through for me and saved my situation.

When asked about the title of the single track Moeketsi had the following to say, “I am healed” is a song dedicated to God for healing me spiritually after losing my father in 2017. I was confused, discouraged and on the verge of giving up on everything in life, said Moeketsi. I consider music to be the language through which to express one’s feelings, hence I wrote the song “I am healed” to express my loss.

I have other future plans about my project “Maru the Revelation Chapter 2” been on the pipelines whilst we are still dealing with the issue of Covid-19 and other related challenges. Moeketsi conceded that even though he had envisaged to have produced other projects in the five years of his plans, he agreed that nothing is guaranteed until it manifests physically for all to see. In music time flies like a lightning with events changing overnight. My long term goal was to have my music reach national radio stations, but to date it is still played at the local ones. Interestingly though, in Botswana it has reached national air-play whilst in the US (United States of America) “I am healed” is on the rotational air play in Donna Walton Gospel Radio Show and other gospel radio stations.

“I managed to promote my single through Social Media and friends who continued played my music on radio stations until a request was made for me to upload it”. “I still need to grow as a Gospel Music Composer to a professional level, said Moeketsi”. He conceded that so far he has produced 300 hundred songs. For me the challenges brought about Covid-19 was a blessing in disguise as it has given me the opportunity to reflect and yielding to the Spirit of God to tap into my God given creativity.

I would advice the youth not to give up and not to let their dreams and visions fade away. I think collaborating with other musicians would be a good thing, but for now I am still on my own. “I would love to work with artists such as Jabu Hlongwani, Judith Sephuma, Winnie Mashaba, Tshepo Tshola, to mention a few, said Moeketsi.

It is very difficult for an artist to work on a project without sponsorship at it is more demanding as one would be expected to channel his resources (money, time, and creativity) in order to make it in life. One of the gravest mistakes which artists can make is to abandon their projects at the last minutes when confronted with challenges. “I ,somehow, believe that every challenge has a solution and will present an opportunity to learn in order for one to still reach their goals”, Moeketsi said.

Palesa Brown talking tough to help learners deal with their pains and sorrows.

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After being gang raped by seven (7) men in Rustenburg, North West, Palesa Brown who penned a book, “To My Rapist, I Thank You”, continue to travel around the country talking with people from all walks of life about the incident which nearly destroyed her ambitions. Her book chronicles her journey on how to claim her power back after a horrific incident which nearly took her life.

Speaking to learners gathered at a hall fully packed to capacity, Palesa said that her book speaks of pain, power, and God’s Saving grace in the midst of trouble. She continued saying that she did not believe that she is the one who survived such an ordeal! “When I initially started writing about her pain the idea was to wipe away every pain any women had found themselves in and wont be able to overcome, giving them hope to take charge of their lives”, she said.

“The book speaks about my life and the things that i have gone through such as been diagnosed with cancer, while she was still young, losing her fiancé three days before they tie the knot and having to deal with mental illness”. She continued to say that “Tapping into what happened to her was not easy”.

The hall was emotionally charged with learners looking attentively at Palesa, the Storyteller, who continued walking on the isles carefully and skillfully narrating her story. Some learners broke in tears when listening at the account of Palesa’s story which keeps on touching on their own experiences.

“Our scars do not define who we are as people, but the magnitude of our experiences with life”. It is only when we look back that we can discover how far we have come thus far. She further deduced that she needed to own up her scars in order to start teaching others how to own up theirs. The moment she mentioned that she has forgiven her rapists, released them in order for her to be free, that triggered emotions to some learners who even requested the platform to confess their mistakes to their fellow students. The platform was granted and confessions were made by learners.

Palesa encouraged learners to own up their scars and continue to fight in order to make a different in their lives and those of the people in whose communities they are coming from. Whilst she hoped that her book will bring about changes in the lives of her young audiences, she also believes that they will develop the fighting spirit of not giving up their goals despite all the odds against them.

I’m already on my third book. I have already jotted down the book. It talks about the processes after healing. She concluded the workshop by saying that she is busy with another book which she shall share its details in due course. She concluded by adopting one learner who aspire to write novels and play, Boipelo Senatle. She promised to walk the journey with the young girl until she realizes her dreams of becoming an author.

Music is a Universal Language to express the artist’s views and ideas!!!

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It is truly challenging to describe my music in words as it is more that mere words which lack the ability to communicate the deeper meaning of what I want I intend saying. Music expresses that which cannot be put into words and that which cannot remain untold”, these are the words spoken by PJ Mussungo.

To be a musician and a CEO of a renowned music label brings with it lot of challenges as well as the opportunity to grow and enhance ones creative skills. PJ Mussungo is the CEO of Befo Music and he hails from Angola, an African country which was dominated by civil war which displaced civilians from 1975 to 2002. He believes that through music he is able to express his views and ideas about what is happening to other people and around the world. Mussungo conceded that his inspiration for music came about seeing the way people live and conduct themselves on a daily basis. He, however, ascribed his creative process of writing music by observing people and learning from what is happening around them as an inspiration to his creative self.

Like most musicians that we know in Africa as well as internationally, PJ acknowledges that he collaborates with other musicians in order to produce the music which he is sure to touch the feelings of music lovers. The two musician that he closely work with when producing his music are Richard Bona and Lokua Kanza who are both from his country, Angola. PJ Mussungo’s collaboration with the duo is because they possess unique skills of playing the instruments and their unique way of mixing traditional and contemporary cultures together.

It is interesting that artists and/or musicians have specific places and venues that they dream of performing from one day. PJ Mussungo’s favourite venue which he has dreamt of playing from is “Appollo”, which is accessible to people from all walks of life. During the time of our interview, PJ was confidently boasting about his acquired skills of both playing and singing at the same time.

Even though PJ Mussungo appeared to be very reserved during the interview I was dumbstruck by the confidence he had shown when speaking about his favourite performance which was in DRC at Pan-African Festival (“FIET”), whereas his worst performance was in Luanda-which was marred by the “sound which was very bad”. I think I learnt a lot from that experience, and I do not believe that I would want to find myself in the same situation as before, said PJ!! Music is my trade and should not be compromised as that can completely destroy all the trust that one has built from the few supporters.

Discipline, hard work and consistency in what one does is of utmost importance when one is to succeed with music as a career. You don’t just wake up and “boom”, everything is perfect, but there is a price to be paid and the main one is to be committed to the trade. “Love what you do and enjoy it as that is the only way that will lead one to the path to success”

What about the Audience’s ways of seeing?

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The storyline in Scandal about Mamba and Violetta’s deaf brother is not realistic and convincing as it should as it does not provide background information about the character. The audience were left to connect the pieces of the puzzle and to figure who the characters of “Mamba” and “Violetta” and how they got married as he (Mamba) would have met the deaf brother sometime back in the days.

On the other hand, Mamba’s character does not match the character he is playing, “a rich former political prisoner with connections”, but rather appear more like a mafia-boss. One would think that the fact that he has married Violetta and the secret of having killed Violetta would have made him to freely give his brother in law school fees money rather than dismissing him.

Another confusing point is about Mamba’s daughter (Aya Nzimande) who was in the car when Violetta and Simo competed to get their hands on the gun. She has seen when Simo shot and killed Violetta, but she is mistaken by her father to have not been present at the night when Simo pulled the trigger that ended Violetta’s life.

Do you think Aya is going to reveal the secret about Violetta’s death?

Why does Simo seem to be more worried than Mamba, though everything happened under his watch?

Do you think Lindiwe Ngema’s new boyfriend is real or just a player like others who don’t need to be trusted?

Characters Review on Scandal

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The young and beautiful Violetta is married to a renowned politician and gangster Mamba, but her heart is set on being with Simo.  Though the plan to rob Gloria of her wealth was the duo’s plan, she becomes jealousy when she discovers that Grace is pregnant with Simo’s baby and decides to takes drastic action.

Gloria has come back to her senses as she remembers her only son, Romeo Medupe, who warned her about Simo’s intentions to reap off her money. Romeo’s character would suffice to be around in this episodes to deal with Simo’s characters and to prove to his mother that he was right all the time when he suspects Simo!! Unfortunately it is too little too late for her to regret not having listened to him.

Viewers were excited about the new affair between Seipati and Lerumo who seemed to be a match made in heaven. By the time we saw Bohang spying at the couple, who were kissing at the door, we knew that he is going to try come between the two love birds.

Bohang recommends Lerumo to attend a detective training course for a month so that he can have a time to mend things with Seipati. He pretended to be a real policeman who upholds law and order and ensuring the safety of those who are vulnerable.

In order to scare Seipati and to make her feel unsafe Bohang decides to release one of the criminals whom he send to scare Seipati at night. He ensures that when Seipati calls for help he is the one answering the call so that he can appear caring and protective.

On the other hand the viewers did not like it when Mamba decides to lock Simo and Violleta, who are tied, in the car and make them to fight for the gun. The viewers expected Violetta to emerge succesful, but unfortunately Simo did. Now the question is: “What is going to happen to Simo, seeing that his accuser is dead?”

Why would artists call for the resignation of Minister Nathi Mthethwa?

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The ministry of sport, arts and culture is on the verge of fast-tracking the third phase relief funding for the arts and entertainment industry following the call by artists for the Minister to resign. This come at the time when Covid-19 is continuing to cause havoc across the country.

The online petition, #NathiMustGo, was launched on Tuesday and has been signed by hundreds of artists from different aspects of the entertainment industry.

One artist, Gregory Magoma, has indicated that the petition had been drawn up due to the Minister’s failure to help adequately fund artists during the hardship of the pandemic. (https://www.timeslive.co.za/tshisa-live/tshisa-live/2021-01-21-nathi-mthethwa-responds-to-petition-calling-for-his-resignation/).

Artists are not happy with the Minister’s tweet shared on January 15 which stated that,  “South African theatre is alive and well with performing arts institutions of the department such as @ArtscapeTheatre, @MarketTheatre, @PACOFS3, @DurbanPlayhouse, @statetheatre and @WindybrowTheatr (sic) offering an array of indigenous drama and dance etc”.

“More so, in light of the fact that the creative sector has been the hardest hit by the pandemic. To date, the theatre industry has little role if any to play given the rules of safety and social distancing. The theatre industry bring crucial messages to ensure that our history is not forgotten and that it continue to educate, entertain, enlighten, inform and to mobilize our nation”

How many artists are we talking about here, where are they coming from, and which criteria was used to fund artists as we have a plethora of practitioners in this country? This questions come after the Minister’s statement which alludes the department’s efforts to continue efforts to alleviate the plight of artists affected by the pandemic that is taking lives and livelihoods.

It is said that the department had implemented the first and second phases of the Covid-19 relief fund, to nearly 5,000 practitioners who were recommended  for the first phase and more than R80m was paid out to the sector.

It is very difficult to be an artist in South Africa as people in the creative industry are left alone to fend for themselves during this time when the economy is hit hard by the pandemic.

It remains to be seen whether the minister will be forced to resign from his post as artists are pushing on with the signing of the petition which seek for the minister’s head.

How COVID-19 paralyses new talents?

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How COVID-19 paralyses the new talents?

Corona Virus, Covid-19, is a global challenge which has left countries and governments devastated and mourning for their citizenries who dies in multitudes.

South Africa recorded 11381 newCovid-19 infections on Thursday, and the total number of cases now stands at 1380807 (news24.com/news24/southafrica/news/covid-19-another-11-381-new-cases-as-sas-total-closes-in-on-14m-20210121). Whilst the country is on the verge of soliciting the much needed vaccine to save the lives of its people there are disturbing news about the passing on of celebrities due to Covid-19 related complications. The latest casualty of the pandemic is the Minister in the Presidency, Mr Jackson Mthembu, who also succumbed to Covid-19.

The creative sector is not spared from the negative effects of Covid-19 as there are reports of radio personalities who passed on due to Covid-19.

On the other hand, Word Of Mouth Pictures is challenging all TV productions to prioritize graduates from performing arts institutions before hiring others. Here are the stats:

  • More than 500 young people graduate from Performing Arts institutions every year with degrees and diplomas (the number is actually higher). Less than 50 of these will get some role or the other in a theatre show, tv drama or telenovela.
  • TV soapies and Dramas input less than 20 new full time actors each year. (The number is actually much lower). What happens to all the graduates who achieves each year?

Maybe to mention that priority should be given to the graduates from the performing arts is too cruel as there are good actors and/or artists with inane talent and can outperform our graduates. The creative industry of South Africa should create more opportunities for the graduates to compete if we are to have a balanced and diverse talents on our TV’s, theatres, etc.

Romeo’suspicions and investigations on Thembeka!

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Soon after Romeo and Xolile return from their honeymoon, he realises that something isn’t right at Thebe-Langa.

When he learns that Thembeka is working in the office, he starts to get suspicious, and enlists some help to start his investigation.
Will he uncover the truth? Will this finally be Mthunzi’s Downfall? Will Thembeka get her heart’s desire? 

Another single track by Tshidi Cuna!!!

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Tshidi Cuna has produced another single track titled, “Lord You are Beautiful” a year after the release of her hit track “Thath’uqobo Lwami” which was recorded in May 2018 and came out in December 2018.

“Thath’uqobo Lwami” was a total surrender and yielding completely to the WILL of God Almighty whilest the later (Lord You are Beautiful) seeks to pay homage and gratitude to God for His goodness and mercies which are new everyday.

Lord you are Beautiful came before “Thath’uqobo Lwami” even though we delayed its release as we were still working on it. The track is going to be released on the 25th January 2020 in collaboration with Mthetho Mbatha, who is the producer.

Tshidi intends to market herself by releasing another single track prior working on a full album. The single will be released online stores, but people can still buy CD’s from her.

Tshidi is doing self-marketing and promotion and she is grateful to all the people who are supporting her by buying her music. On the challenge of self-marketing and promotion she indicated that when doing self marketing is constrained by time and space,said Cuna.

The current track is better than the first one because it came out at the right time, and it is lively. The song is a personal confession for the Lord’s goodness and grace upon my life and it will remind people to thank God for whatever He does for them even if it seems small, said Cuna.

Cuna is grateful to God who made it possible for her to work with people such as Mthetho Mbatha who is a performing artist, singer, songwriter and CEO of Soulid Entertainment Media.


Newly Crowned Miss Universe is South African!!!

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JOHANNESBURG – Miss South Africa Zozibini Tunzi has been crowned Miss Universe 2019.

The pageant saw young women from around the globe and countries flaunt their style and heart at this year’s Miss Universe event.

The pageant was hosted at Tyler Perry Studios in Atlanta, USA, with Steve Harvey as the host of the event.

South Africans are celebrating the achievement made by one of their own in the international platform. The 26-year-old is the third South African to be crowned miss universe; the first being Margaret Gardiner in 1978 and the second being Demi-Leigh Nel-Peters in 2017.

“The Miss Universe platform as well as the Miss South Africa platform are some of the few platforms that actually give women the ability to lead and the sooner we start looking at it as a leadership position, the less it’s something that’s taboo and the more we can start moving forward as women,” she said.

In an earlier interview, she told EWN: “If I have to be the sacrificial lamb for people to call me ugly or whatever it is that they want to call me, it’s fine because then I open a gate for people who are different – like me – who want to be in spaces where they have been told they don’t belong.”

Schools’ Sports Awards

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From the beginning of the year schools from the Westrand District Municipality had indulged in the “Schools Sports Awards”, an initiative by the Gauteng West Education District. The purpose of the programme is to afford learners the opportunity to expose their talents in addition to encouraging a healthy living (since a healthy mind is in the healthy body).

All the pupil who participates in the programme are advised to create their own portfolio with which is going to be used during the competition. The completed portfolios are submitted to Dawid Pieters at the Gauteng West District Office for the nominations.

This year’s awards had seen different schools from the west rand region participating in the programme in order to put their names on the map. Learners are selected from the region and those emerging in the top three (3) categories will be shortlisted for final nominees. Badirile Secondary School, a public school from Khutsong location, is one of the school who are determined to bring the award back home.

Though there are many categories that schools participated in, Badirile Secondary School learners had opted to compete in the following categories:

(a) Secondary Female Athlete of the year

(b) Secondary Male Athlete of the year

(c) Chess Team of the year, and

(d) Coach of the year

Even though it is not easy to conclude who are the schools going to be crowned the champions, Badirile Secondary school’s coach, Fofo Segakweng, is adamant that his team is going to emerge as the overall winner in this year’s School Sports Awards. His team is represented by dedicated learners such as George Bernet and Nombulelo Fihla who are both participates in the “Male and Female Athlete(s) of the Year Awards”. Meanwhile coach Fofo Segakweng is standing for the “Coach of the Year Award”.

Winners will represent the Gauteng West District at the provincial level and later on nationally. Competition is fierce and all the teams have crossed their fingers as they wait desperately for the outcomes of the Schools Sports Aawards which is taking place tomorrow (22 November 2019).

Who represents SA Local artists on what is owed to them 2019-11-01 11:48

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(Badirile Secondary School Learners at the Soweto Theater Complex: 2019 November 01 11:48)

Johannesburg – Thousands of authors and composers whose music is broadcast on SABC TV and radio can now be assured of receiving their royalty fees as the SABC begins to clear a backlog of debt.  The SABC had fallen behind in its payments amid its own financial challenges.

It is alleged that by September 30 2019, the SABC owed SAMRO a total of more than over R160 million which was due to be paid to local artists. With the financial position of the SABC moving on the positive direction, there is hope that musicians will finally receive funds owed to them after a payment plan has been established.

Though this seems to be a victory for local artist, we are however surprised that the Creative Industry of South Africa (CISA) is mum about the challenges faced by the local producers. One would be tempted to suggest that the function of CISA is to represent the artists from all walks of life despite their area of specialization.

It’s a step in the right direction, but some artists are adamant that they will only believe to the authenticity of the initiative once they see the money coming into their accounts from SAMRO.

The question we want to ask is, “Why did the SABC decided to ignore paying the royalties to SAMRO” as this might be the only way for some artists to make a living? Why did CISA and its counterpart, SAMRO continued to be silent on the issues affecting their members?

SAMRO’s interim CEO Ditebogo Modiba expressed her thanks to the SABC for prioritising these payments in recognition of the impact that it has on the industry’s sustainability since it is a crucial source of income for many South African artists.  

In a statement released to the press, she said: “Honouring their commitment to us reflects their understanding of the importance of paying for their license, which ultimately benefits our members. This is still a challenge when dealing with some other licensees, and the SABC, despite its financial challenges, has proven to be a positive example in complying with this,”.

She added: “All of the money received from the SABC will be used to secure the payment of royalties to our members, which is our primary and core function.”  

(Photo: Tyler Walker/Big Red Photography)

Celebrating heritage day in style

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Life will never be the same for the young learners from Khutsong, Carletonville after visiting the Soweto Theatre, which is in the heart of Soweto. This life changing experience came after they were called in to participate in the drama project that was sponsored and supported by Mvuso Project and Wits University’s Drama for Life Project.

It was the team’s first experience to act and been watched by hundreds of the audiences who eagerly awaited to see the school that will outperform those participating. Badirile Secondary School team was headed by their dramatic arts educator and HOD, Mr Rabaloi who was accompanied by Mr. Tau TJ, who also teach at the same school and department. The group consisted of two groups which were led by the two (artists) faciitators namely, Kay-Kay Sambo and Nkosana Samane.

“Hard work pays”, those are the words of the educator and the HOD of the school, Mr. Rabaloi joel, after his school was awarded a “Bronze Medal” for obtaining position three (3). It was for the first time our learners had gotten the opportunity to see and to perform on a “real performance stage” . The passion from our learners is ignited and we have decided to continue competing in drama and acting as this helps learners to nurture and grow in their passion, Rabaloi said.

Our wish as a school is to be funded so that we can build a theatre and stage that can be used by our learners. Had we had a stage and our learners acquainted with using such we would have gotten first place during the competitions.

we are appealing to the community and business structures within our jurisduction to support the school by donating resources and equipments that can be used to promote performance and acting at our school.

Reviewing Mthunzi’s Character on Scandal!!!

Even though the character hated by most of the audience for the role he is playing, we must somehow give him the credits for been able to play the character convincingly. Mthunzi should be commended for playing the character perfectly despite the difficulties and the endurance of the physical strains he had to undergo when sitting on the wheelchair.

Mthunzi is playing a very smart character who is able to fight against all odds and emerge victorious. His character has shown to be strong and continue to outsmart the Langa’s as well as his mother who is desperate to see him recover from the shot wounds.

When watching the character sitting on the wheelchair you may confuse him to someone who is wheelchair bound until you see him sneak and rise on his own.  I think the confusing part to the audiences is how the character has managed to recover from the wheelchair after the doctors had declared him invalid after been shot!! We have also seen the character of Boniswa Langa injecting Mthunzi with some drugs that will make his situation worse.

The storyline where Boniswa is seen injecting Mthunzi’s character is not convincing because if he was pretending he would have not allowed that to happen. Another question that remain unanswered is that of him and his mother not having plans to leave the Langa family alone. Why are they not leaving to go and start their new life somewhere?

It is also not believable for Mthunzi’s nurse, Sewela, to have witnessed Mthunzi rising up and does not put it as her reason to leaving the caregiving job. One would expect her to disclose the information to at least one member of the family before walking away.

Why are the Langa’s family still stuck with Mthunzi?

The development in the storyline in Scandal has brought about many changes from characters initial chatacterisations that we know. The character of Ma-Maduna(Dambisa) has transformed tremendously to be a forceful and a bully at the same time.

Now that her son, Mthunzi, is confined to the wheelchair, she is no longer playing her previous role of a worker (assistant), but of a powerful bully who worries about losing nothing. She has transformed into an arrogant character who does not mince her words when calling her boss, Boniswa, ntombazana, little girl.

On the other hand, she is taking over Siseko’s bedroom to her son and claims that Mthunzi needed a bigger space for himself, blaming all his woes to Siseko.

Dambisa aka Mamaduna approved of the interviewee (Sewela) without considering the costs as she says the Langas will pay the nurse whatever she will ask for her compensation!!!

Dambisa is caught conaulting with her sangoma from Matatiele at the Langas home without getting permission, and that did not go down well with Boniswa. The sangoma from Matatiele stayed at the hotel and Dambisa told Boniswa that the langas will pay the hotel costs.

The audiences were treated with some fun when Yvonne visited the Siseko family to meet Mthunzi. “Yes, you are a vegetable now, and I wish you stay like this for the restvof your life”. You are a parcel, just a parcel. Look where you are now, Yvonne said.

Romeo’s character is still working very hard to ensure that Mthunzi is gotten rid completely. Some people believe that Romeo’s character was funny when he slaps Mthunzi from both cheeks during his visitation.

The other characters that deserves mentioning here is Zinzile and Mlungisi whose marriage is on the rocks. Though they both appear to be opting for divorce, it is evident that they are both driven by denial of the fact that they still love one another. Mlu’is drowning himself with liquor whereas Zinzile confides to Gloria that she still loves her husband.

Mlu’s character is convincing as a drunkard because of his gestures, movement and the voice. The character came out so real in the morning when he tries to come back to his senses, especially when he tries to hide the bottles he left on the table the previous night.

 

 

Community Interest: Calling to Serve the Community

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In this short interview we are going to be hearing about a young man who has dedicated his entire life to serving the interests of his community of Khutsong, Carletonville.

Mahashe’s passion to serve was influenced by his innane talent which he discovered when he was just 12 years old. His background reflect that he participated in drama and at age 17 he managed to establish his own organisation which specialises in drama.

As an artist i write, create and produce films that teaches and help expose the social issues affecting local people of Khutsong, Carletonville. “I think film production is important in the communityas a vehicle for generating revenue for the unemployed youth”, said Mahase. I am only working with a team of 15 young people, all of whom are unemployed.

Chencha Mocha Production’s plan is to shoot a movie titled “Legomosha”, as a vehicle to expose the incident wherein a number of people (Magomosha, police and securities) has died from the shootout following spate of illegal mining and criminal activities at the Merafong municipality. When asked about why he has named his peoduction company that name he said, ” the name literally means “Gold Diggers”following the activities that they do in the community.

I also intend creating a loval soapie that will be aired on public broadcasters such as SABC & eTV channels, said Mahase. Chencha Mocha Productions is faced with many challenges which stems from resources and a place from which to practice.

Our gratitude goes to our Local Ward Counsellor who assisted us with obtaining a certificate in addition to referring us to the municipality, said Mahase. We are proud to have produced a documentary that unravels gangsterism and theft in the community.

Any prospective funders are welcome to fund this initiative which seeks to develop young people and create employment opportunities for the youth.

What is in the language?

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The initiative by an actor and playwright Obed Baloyi has seen him producing one of his debut play “Ga-Mchangani” at the Market Theatre Laboratory. His play, though using a tragically humorous Jim-comes-to-Jozi plot, the play highlights the stereotypes that people from the North are treated, with the objective of exposing the inequalities that exists the creative industry in South Africa.

This issue about othering as Zaza Hlalethwa has alluded to it in her original article titled “Giyani’ translates to viewers”, exposes how certain languages or cultures are used in plays to add humour and/or to fortify the existing stereotypes.

Consider that the three main languages spoken in Limpopo are Xitsonga, Sepedi and Tshivenda and the groups themselves are divided. It is interesting to see that the very groups do not exist side by side as they appears to be better than the other ones. The fear to associate is created with a view of wanting to protect themselves from appearing to be like the other language that is been shamed.

In a play, characters from the minority groups are normally given roles that will make them appear funny or stupid because of the ways in which they are made to say things.

A few weeks before its premiere President Cyril Ramaphosa mentioned it in his Human Rights Day speech when he said South Africans are tasked with conserving languages that are in danger of becoming extinct.

Unfortunately, the flow of dialogue is sometimes interrupted by the producer’s decision to cast non-Xitsonga people in roles that require a Xitsonga speaker. To paint an authentic picture of Limpopo, Giyani’s cast also includes Khelobedu and Tshivenda speakers.

According to the article that appeared on Mail & Guardian of the12th Apr 2019 00:00, the producers subtly managed to bringing land conversations to the fore, with the intent to address the clashes between Tshivenda- and Xitsonga-speakers in Limpopo.

The other issue raised in the Mail & Guardian is the survival of residents in Malamulele village, with regard to basics such as public transport, job security and access to public healthcare, depended on whether one spoke Xitsonga or Xivenda. Similar tensions rose in Bungeni village in 2016. And from 2017 through to 2018, Vuwani village was plagued by violent conflicts between the two language groups.

Giyani — Land of Blood airs on SABC 2 from Monday to Wednesday at 9.30pm

Safety at our Schools: What happened to the Culture of learning & teaching?

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On the 18th May 2019 our delegate attended an RCL Pilot Training program called by the Gauteng Department Of Education at Irene, South of Pretoria. The training was a collaboration between UNISA & Mathews Goniwe School of Leadership. The initiative has seen 75 schools been selected for the program in the province.

The intention of the training was to equip learners with leadership skills that will help them understand ways in which to deal with issues affecting learning and teaching at their respective schools. Dr Naidoo is heard saying, ” The RCL has got a very significant role to play towards the curricullum development rather than disrupting learning and teaching”.

Learners were advised about how to analyse their schools in addition to coming up with the programs that will help create a positive learning and teaching environment. The RCL are instructed to initiate programs that will deal with issues such as substance abuse, bullying, bunking classes, absenteeism, vandalism, etc.

Even though the program seems to be a positive initiative and a relevant stop in the right direction, I think the project is too big for the learners following spites of violent, gansterism, killings and fightings at schools. One would believe that the activities happening at schools in the recent past is a call for all the stakeholders to be involved in trying to resolve the problems happening at schools.

The MEC for education, Mr Panyaza Lusufi, has called on and arranged a gathering of educational stakeholders under the theme, “MEC’s Consultative Meeting” which is scheduled to take place on June 14th, 2019 at Nasrec, Johannesburg. It remains unclear what is on the agenda, but crime and security at schools will obviously feature in the discussion.

Tshidi Cuna’s Thath’uqobo Lwami Single Track!!!

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Listening to Tshidi Cuna’s single track titled, “Thath’uqobo Lwami” can make you think that she is a gospel singer who has been in the industry for decades. The song is so meaningful, especially when listened in relation to our service to God Almighty. The song is simple and easy to follow and has a unique way of creating a conducive mode of worshiping.

Tshidi’s passion for singing started long in 1999, but began to take it seriously after receiving Jesus Christ as her Lord and personal Saviour. Even though she started singing in the late 90’s she only recorded her single track in May 2018 and came out in December 2018. When asked about the meaning behind the track she said, “It is my first song and the beginning of my work in music by God’s grace. I am dedicating my career in music for His glory” said Tshidi.

Tshidi is doing self-marketing and promotion and she is greatful to all the people who are supporting her by buying her music. On the challenge of self-marketing and promotion she mentioned, ” the challenge of been one and not been everywhere all the time”.

Cuna is grateful to work with people such as Mthetho Mbatha who is a performing artist, singer, songwriter and CEO of Soulid Entertainment Media. Mthetho has produced albums for Keke Makhetha and two of his own called Themba Lami and Dwala Laphakade, respectively. He is now working on producing other artists like Tshidi Cuna and Londiwe Mbatha among others. Having grown and been school in the rural KwaZulu Natal-South Coast, Mthetho Mbatha is passionate about music and worship.

The good news is that Tshidi’s new album will be released next year (2020) early in the year. Interesting though she has an advice for the aspiring music- she said, “Do not rush into doing things but wait for God’s timing”. Tshidi is happy with the positive feedback she is getting from all those who bought her track.

It is up to Tshidi to continue working on her upcoming album so that she does not disappoint her music lovers who are waiting eagerly for the new relesae. Only time will tell if she will manage to deliver the project on time!!!

Modernity and Tradition:Where do we draw the line?

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Zinzile Ngema, whose real name is Gcina Nkosi, is known by the Viewers of e.tv’s Scandal know as a traditional Zulu woman who obeys her husband all the time.

Things changed when Zinzile decided to overlook her husband’s decision not to further or register for her studies with the college. Even though the character is traditional and respecting her husband, she still believes that it is important for women to voice their opinions and for their views to be respected.

At some stage when trying to follow closely at the character one can observe that even though there are those elements of “shyness”, facing down when speaking with others. The character is not believable when crying on stage. Conclusions can be made about the character that her facial expression is not convincing or rather showing us a character who was crying. Interestingly she has made her conclusion that her husband, Mlungisi Ngema, is having an affair with his employer, Grace Medupi, after seeing the pair talking whilst sitting closely together.

On the other hand we are introduced to the character of Romeo Medupi who worked tirelessly to get Mthunzi trapped to avenge for Siseko Langa’s death. The once powerful and clever Mthunzi is trapped and is on the mercy of a stranger man whose son died from Mthunzi’s actions. Mr Murdoch who was once a renowned businessman who turned a drunkard and a sickling is seeking answers from him about the death of his son.

Whilst Boniswa and Xolile are excited that Romeo has managed to capture the man who tormented the family and had killed Mr Langa, Chumani seems to have moved on with his life. Even though the Langa family and Romeo appears to have cornered Mthunzi their biggest threat is Chumani who does not agree with them for the decisions they make about killing Mthunzi.

Will this be the end of Mthunzi or are we going to see him again as the storyline continues remains to be seen. As for the audience they are excited for the fact that the “villain” who tormented and killed Siseko Langa and his family is cornered. The audience’s wish is for the character, Mthunzi. to vanish for good in order for the Langa’s to move on peacefully with their lives.

The Secret is Out: “Mthunzi is the real David Maduna”

The storyline in Scandal about the revelation and exposure of the real culprit behind Siseko Langa’s death has become the fight of the two nemesis , Mthunzi who is the bad guy and Romeo who appears to seek revenge for his mentor.

Even though Siseko was on the verge of mentoring Romeo on business principles, it is worrying that he is more involved than Langa’s family. It seems like Mthunzi has done his homework well and he has managed to do his findings that will incriminate and tarnish Siseko Langa’s public image and legacy.

Chuma has made peace with the fact that there is nothing they can do as a family to avenge for his father’s murder and he is concerned to learn that Romeo has not given up the fight to eliminate and expose Mthunzi. On the other hand, Xolile and her mother (Boniswa) are stuck with Mthunzi and are banking on Romeo’s character for their solution.

Why is Romeo so obsessed with killing and wanting revenge for Siseko’s killer? What is he going to gain after eliminating and/or exposing Mthunzi for his involvement in the death of Mr Langa?

What makes a good music?

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While he may deserve the title “hitmaker”, King Monada is not the kind of an artist who is always over the place, instead the Malwedhe singer is always in the studio creating music that will move his fans!

According to TshisaLIVE recently, Monada’s manager Makwela Makwela explained that the artist spent so much in studio creating new music that he had more than 50 unreleased songs! “We always have new music ready but we’ve learned that you can’t rush a hit single, the people decide what song they love and make it a hit song.

It is interesting that King Monada’s music is influenced by the issues affecting ordinary people on the street. His approach to music includes a careful selection of familiar issues and language that can easily be understood by everyone. Monada seems to have conducted his research about his target listeners who can easily identify with.

According to his manager, Makwela Makwela, “Both Malwedhe and Ska Bora Moreki were songs they knew people would love but didn’t expect to go viral as they did. So even with the new songs, our job will be to find the songs that people will love and the rest will be up to them, you know, whether the songs takes over the world or is loved by only some people.”

Ordinary people like music that speaks about their experiences and issues in life as they communicate their feelings. Malwedhe, Kea Idibala- as the song is popularly known, has its message from the experiences of music lovers who appears to be “communicating the pains and agony that they face after been dumped by the person they loved dearly”. The song is followed and listened to in every corner of the street with people falling down to imitate “fainting”, which is the loosely translation of the song.


Replacing a presenter, replacing a program

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The news reported by the local newspaper “The Sekgosese Insider” dated March 19th -02 April 2019 about the termination of Mkwazeni’s contract came as a surprise to the former Station Manager of Sekgosese FM, Mr Joel Rabaloi.

Thobela FM tauted Mkwazeni whilest he was the presenter for “Mmino Wa Africa” at the local radio station. The then Programs Manager of Thobela FM, Mr Ronnie Makgothokgo, approached me to inform me about the station’s interest to the three (3) presenters from my station, Rabaloi said. I conceded to the plan as our roles as community radio stations is to develop and hone the skills of presenters that they can make it big in the industry.

Mkwazeni’s departure from the SABC’s Thobela FM is a total blow to both the listeners and the communities of Ga-Raphahlelo, Ga-Phooko and the entire Balobedu people whom he represented in the radio station. He represented the undermined and/or the marginalized groups who listen to Thobela FM but their language is second class as it is not the one targeted by Thobela FM.

His departure from Thobela FM has frustrated many of his listeners who vowed to follow him wherever he goes. “I am still surprised and shocked at the same time, but it is up to you the listeners and God to judge because I am still willing to serve with pride, but this is far beyond my control”, read Koko Mkwazeni’s facebook satatement.

Sekgosese Insider have recently reported the following about the listeners: Paulina Manganyi called in during the show and said, “I am crying. I am going with you wherever you go”. Another listener, Listerine Motlousi was heard live on-air crying because Koko Mkwazeni was partying ways with Thobela FM.

The campaign to bring back the presenter #BringBackKokoMkwazeni” with listeners commenting on Thobela FM page has gained momentum. Meanwhile the broadcaster (Thobela FM) is on the verge of making drastic changes that will enable the radio to deliver its content, music and the type of personalities that match with the station’s identity and its strategy.

According to the changes made, Koko Mkwazeni will be replaced by Max Mojapelo who is a legendary presenter and is known in the industry. Mojapelo is said to have also published his book titled,”Never Say Never”, and the book was launched on the 16th September 2016.

SABC’s Thobela FM maintains that they are interested in developing local talent as per their mandate. It is ironic that they are removing someone from the marginalized groups whom they are supposed to develop. It remains to be seen whether the campaign to bring back Mkwazeni will sway the broadcaster into changing their decision about terminating Mkwazeni’s contract. As for the outsted presenter, Mkwazeni, he is now faced with the decision to either looking somewhere else for the presenting job or decides to hang the mike(microphone).

South Africans Who are making it Overseas.

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Again, South Africans cannot exclusively claim this two time Grammy Award winner as theirs. Dave Mathews is obviously most known as the lead vocalist, songwriter, and guitarist for the Dave Mathews Band. He was born in Johannesburg on January 9, 1967, and moved to New York at the age of two. Dave is not only a South African. The perfect way to describe him is, a South African-born American singer-songwriter, musician and actor.

Dave Brubeck was an American jazz pianist and composer known for his unconventional meters, as well as songs like “In Your Own Sweet Way” and “The Duke.”

Synopsis

Born in Concord, California, on December 6, 1920, Dave Brubeck worked as a jazz pianist before co-founding the Dave Brubeck Quartet in 1951. His use of unconventional meters contributed to his huge appeal. Some of his most popular compositions include “Blue Rondo a la Turk,” “In Your Own Sweet Way” and “The Duke.” The song “Take Five,” composed by Brubeck’s longtime partner, saxophonist Paul Desmond, was the first jazz instrumental to sell more than a million copies. Brubeck died on December 5, 2012, at age 91.

Early Life

Born in Concord, California, on December 6, 1920, David Warren Brubeck began playing piano when he was 4 years old, and began performing with jazz bands in California in the early 1930s. After graduating from high school, in 1938, Brubeck enrolled at the College of the Pacific in California. Not long after, he formed a 12-piece jazz ensemble.

During World War II, Brubeck conducted a service band in General George Patton’s army. Following the war, he attended Mills College to study music composition.

The Dave Brubeck Octet

In 1946, Brubeck and seven of fellow students at Mills College—including saxophonist Paul Desmond, trumpeter Dick Collins and clarinetist Bill Smith—formed the Dave Brubeck Octet. Based in San Francisco, the band performed together until 1949 and released several recordings, including “The Way You Look Tonight,” “Love Walked In,” “September in the Rain, “Fugue on Bop Themes,” “Let’s Fall in Love,” “I Hear a Rhapsody,” “Laura” and “What Is This Thing Called Love.” Though they garnered little attention in the 1940s and ’50s, the octet has earned acclaim in recent years; their recordings have been deemed innovative and ahead of their time, even by contemporary jazz standards.

The Dave Brubeck Trio and Quartet

After the Dave Brubeck Octet disbanded in 1949, Brubeck founded the Dave Brubeck Trio. The group quickly earned popularity in the San Francisco area, and later reformed and then expanded into a quartet—Paul Desmond became the fourth member of the group, spurring the Dave Brubeck Quartet. Playing together for more than a decade, the quartet included a range of members over the years; Desmond and Brubeck were the only members to perform on all of the group’s albums, which include Dave Brubeck QuartetJazz at the Black HawkJazz at OberlinJazz at the College of the Pacific and Jazz Goes to College.

By the mid-1950s, Brubeck had finally gained international fame. Some of his most popular compositions include “Blue Rondo a la Turk,” “In Your Own Sweet Way” and “The Duke.” His use of unconventional meters contributed to his wide appeal. A testament to his popularity, Brubeck was featured on the cover of Time magazine in November 1954.

In an interview with The New York Times, Brubeck discussed his feelings on his fame in ’50s, noting that his longtime partner, Paul Desmond, didn’t gain recognition until several years later. “Seven in the morning, there’s a knock at the door and there’s Duke [Ellington] handing me the magazine and saying, ‘Dave, you’re on the cover,'” he said. “He was happy for me, but I was just so disappointed because it should have been him. They got around to him finally a couple of years later. But … it just bothered me.”

In 1959, Desmond’s “Take Five” became the first jazz instrumental to sell more than a million copies. The song, included on the Dave Brubeck Quartet’s album Time Out, attracted many new listeners to jazz, particularly on college campuses, during the 1950s and ’60s.

Later Career

The Dave Brubeck Quartet disbanded in 1967. Desmond died a decade later, in 1977. Brubeck went on to form another group, a quartet with his sons, keyboardist Darius Brubeck, bassist and trombonist Chris Brubeck, and drummer Danny Brubeck. In 1973, the group released Two Generations of Brubeck.

Brubeck continued to release music throughout the 1980s and ’90s, including the albums Blue Rondo (1986), Moscow Nights (1987), In Their Own Sweet Way (1994) and A Dave Brubeck Christmas (1996).

Death and Legacy

On December 5, 2012, one day before his 92nd birthday, Brubeck died of cardiac arrest in Norwalk, Connecticut.

Today, Brubeck is remembered for his musical experimentation and unconventional meters. While he’s best known for his compositions, his talent on the piano has also been praised. Of his passion for the piano, Brubeck once said, “It’s like a whole orchestra, the piano for me.”

Skeem Saam (SABC1) Teasers for April 8-12 2019.

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Skeem Saam (SABC1) teasers and updates for the week of 8 April 2019 through; 12 April 2019 teases that Fanie is livid to learn who Emkay has shared some damning intel with. Rachel notices Marothi looking where he shouldn’t be and is hurt. Ramolao is too chuffed when he notes Sis Ouma’s jealousy, much to Ma Koloi’s dismay.

There’s trouble in paradise for Marothi and Rachel after their meeting with the wedding planner. Sis Ouma learns some incriminating news about Ma Koloi. Lehasa is leaving no stone unturned to find the information he needs about the ultrasound scans.

Celia holds a damning theory about someone’s dead wife and is determined to flag it to her daughter. Dr Moremi is forced to reveal all to a misled and expectant father. Ma Koloi doesn’t hold back in giving a certain gossipmonger a piece of her mind.

Rachel makes a threat she promises to make good on. Lelo is excited when she receives news she’s been waiting to hear for a long time. Sis Ouma’s attempts at reconciliation don’t go as she had planned.

Lehasa is thrown when Dr Moremi arrives at his engagement dinner and immediately goes off script. Celia and Alfred have an altercation regarding Rachel’s upcoming nuptials. Ma Koloi is stunned when she spots an engagement ring on her nemesis’s finger.

Mthunzi & Boniswa, who is to blame for Siseko’s death?

There is an interesting twist in Scandal storyline with the events starting to entangle Boniswa Langa, Siseko Langa’s wife. The audience are now presented with the opportunity to weigh in and judge who the real culprit is between Mthunzi and Boniswa!!!

On the other hand we have heard Boniswa dropping a bombshell on her children who suspected foul play by their mother. Xolile is angry with Boniswa and is not prepared to listen to anything from her as it appears that she is protecting Mthunzi.

The Langa children grapple with what they’ve learned – and what is still to be revealed. Question: What is it that Boniswa is hidding for her children (Chumani & Xolile)?

The other developments in Scandal is the storyline about Mlungisi Ngema and his wife-MaSixelo. The audiences are grappling to understand the type of husband Ngema is after finding out that his wife had enrolled for the part time studies with a local college.

Even though we are trying to understand that Mlungisi is a traditional Zulu man who believes that “a woman’s place is in the kitchen’, we are opposed to his anger which is causing division between him and his wife.

What do you think to be Mlungisi’s problem: (a) That his wife went behind his back to register for her college studies, (b) he is intimidated by the fact that his wife is going to get a better paying job and leave him, and (c) he want to instill discipline in his house.

 

Babes Wodumo continues to make headlines!!!

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On the 6th March 2019 the Kwaito star Mandla “Mampintsha” Maphumulo appeared at the Pinetown Magistrate court for assaulting his girlfriend Babes Wodumo, though he claimed that it was all in self-defence.

It alleged that the musso, Mampintsha, was also on the verge of laying counter assault charges against Babes Wodumo. Trying to analyse the meaning of her name it was discovered that it means “a popular girl”, perhaps that is why she is making the headlines.

On the other hand, Babes Wodumo, real name Bongekile Simelane, was set to appear alongside Nondumiso and artist Thobeka “Tipcee” Ndaba, after an unknown woman laid common assault charges against them at the Umbilo police station in March.

It was alleged that on Monday evening she attended a gathering at a guesthouse in the Umbilo area when she was assaulted by four women, three of whom are known to her, after she got into an argument with one of them.”

This alleged incident which happened within a short spate of time caution us about the lifestyles popular people are living. The public learn and imitate artists’ lifestyles, and as such we expecting them to uphold good morals if they are to influence their followers positively.

Linda Sokhulu is about to set the world of Rhythm City alive once again.

The veteran actress becomes the latest acquisition to our star studded cast. She will make her debut on Tuesday, 16 April at 7PM.

Sokhulu will play the role of Ziyanda, a smart savvy business women who will groom Suffo into a whole new world of business and power. But that’s just the tip of the iceberg.

In the process she unwittingly challenges Suffo and Puleng’s compatibility, in fact she challenges their marriage which ultimately highlights their very different goals.

“I am looking forward to playing Ziyanda. It’s a very challenging role. She is worldly, street smart, and sexy. She knows exactly what she wants and is not afraid to speak her mind. David and Suffo have no idea what they’re in for!” Sokhulu said.

Did Puleng just get a new rival?

Golden Oldies- Brenda Fasie’s Legacy is still with us!!!!

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Brenda Nokuzola Fassie (1964 – 2004) was a South African anti-apartheid Afropop singer whose music has taken the world by storm.  The singer was affectionately known as MaBrrr by her fans, she was sometimes sometimes described as the “Queen of African Pop” or the “Madonna of The Townships” or simply as The Black Madonna. Her bold stage antics earned a reputation for “outrageousness”.
Below is the lyrics of her hit song, “Weekend Special”
[Verse 1]
You don’t come around, to me see in the week
You don’t have a chance, to call me on the phone
You don’t come around, to me see in the week
You don’t have a chance, to call me on the phone[Pre-Chorus]
But friday night, yes I know
I know I must be ready for you, just be waiting for you
Friday night, yes I know
I know I must be ready for you, just be waiting for you[Chorus]
I’m no weekend, weekend special
I’m no weekend, weekend special
I’m no weekend, weekend special
I’m no weekend, weekend special
I’m no weekend, weekend special (daddy’s home)
I’m no weekend (daddy’s home)[Verse 2]
Another lonely night, on my own again
How along for your love
I need your touch, yes I do
You don’t come around, to me see in the week
You don’t have a chance, to call me on the phone

But friday night, yes I know
I know I must be ready for you, just be waiting for you
Friday night, yes I know
I know I must be ready for you, just be waiting for you

[Bridge]
I’m your weekend special…
I’m your weekend special…
I’m no weekend special…
That is all…

[Chorus]
I’m no weekend, weekend special
I’m no weekend, weekend special
I’m no weekend, weekend special
I’m no weekend, weekend special
I’m no weekend, weekend special (daddy’s home)
I’m no weekend (daddy’s home)

Jabulani Mthobeni explains his Career as an Actor!!

INTERVIEW WITH JABULANI MTHOMBENI

Working as an Actor can be both challenging and fulfilling at the same time, as the work often comes with a lack of stability. In this interview, Jabulani Mthombeni who is an ACTOR explains how he managed to build a career for himself in an incredibly competitive industry.

Question 1: Can you take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers, especially, with regard to your name, place of birth and what you do as a creative person?

Jabulani Mthombeni is a 33 years old gentlemen who was born and bred in KZN, but later on moved to gauteng by his dad at a tender age of 10. He pride himself of been born in the home of Champions. So basically I live 2 different life style, when I’m in KZN I am a Zululandian, in Gauteng gautenenian��

“As creative person, I’m a Performer as well as an Actor. I do theatre and television work, that’s my profession! I’m a Songwriter who have written songs and have sung them, which I still do”, said Jabulani. There’s a lot that he does in the creative space though his chief aim is to perform as an actor.

Question 2: What does your job involve? Give us the typical outline of a day.

Mthombeni’s job involves lot of respect, hard work, dedication, determination, passion but most of it all love, because when you love (or love) something you always think about it in a positive way and you don’t mind investing time on it.  Whenever you are given a character or a role to play, it is advisable that you do research, go all out and see yourself as that person? I’m telling you, you will smash each and every character you get.

Question 3: You are a PROESSIONAL ACTOR (THEATRE PRACTITIONER |TELEVISION ACTOR | RADIO DRAMA | STAGE PLAY), which role best describes you here, and why?

For me all of them describe me, you see I started this whole performing thing in the community spaces from the townships, joined competitions in Gauteng and winning them. So in the ground you are not entitled to one role, we are taught to be versatile especially in this industry. Until I went to big theatre spaces in Gauteng that’s where I met big people, just to name the few, the likes of abo Bab u Hamilton Dlamini, John Kani, Ausi Matlakala the iShashalazi Theatre Practioner…, But for me theatre is the magic of all the spaces of telling stories, when you have started there nothing can stop you.

Question 4: You have a wealth of knowledge in the arts, can you briefly tell the audience what you’ve studied, when did you study and at which institution you’ve studied?

Studied performing arts at Wits School of Arts in partnership with Jo’burg Theatre for (three) 3 years, and I started this journey of education in 2014 and completed in 2016. And I also went to study film, TV Production, and Sound at “Revolution Media Academy” in Braamfontein just to add some more skills in working behind the Camera to enhance my knowledge in performance or acting.

Question 4: How did you get here or what made you to focus on the above (the career path you have undertaken) as a young man.? What skills do one require(s) to be able to work effectively and efficiently in all the roles you occupied?

Mthombeni advised that when you (have) love of something, nothing can stop you from pursuing whatever you have passion of. I started acting at an early age, I think I was 6 year old by then, in KZN. My love for acting was fueled by my love for radio drama which I did not like missing despite having to walk long distance to reach home. “So this thing of loving acting started there and it grows until I wanted to see myself one day participating in those stories because those time we did not have television at home. Radio was the thing for us so big up to Ukhozi FM”,as he appreciate its contributions in his life.

In this dispensation or rather the 4th Industrial Revolution era, access to information is made simple for all from different walks of life. The skills required in what I am doing is love and the willingness to study in order to get more knowledge and skills required to enhance and develop one’s characterization. Read, read, read, read books all the time!!

Question 5: I can see that you have a background in Radio Drama, can you briefly tell us about it and your reasons for leaving (if no longer involved in Radio)?

“I love radio very much and wish I could return fully one day you know, I have other prior commitments, in the form of theatre which is taking most of my time”, said Mthombeni. You see when you are a Radio Drama Storyteller, all that is needed is the proper (usage of) a home language which (mostly) depends on the radio station and the character you are portraying. Characters in radio dramas should be able to change their voices in addition to been able to change characters. Be a fast good reader as well.

Question 6: Can you briefly tell our audience about your experience regarding Joburg Theatre, Market Theatre, and Wits Theatre?

Started seeing theatre spaces even before I went to study my acting, because ever since from high school I have been doing community stories so they would take us to theatre spaces to compete for art national festival in graham’s town, Zwakala Festival, Ishashalazi Theatre and Poetry. Working in theatre spaces have taught me some invaluable lessons of been able to work using Conventional drama elements rather than using poor theatre approach as in the case of Community halls.

Question 7: Wendy’s Talent Agency is one of the reputable agencies that works to develop and or nurture talents, tell us what you got there and when did you get involved with them?

I had my encounter with them when I was still studying at Wits, so the owner of the agency once saw me performing in Joburg Theatre and later (she) approached me and scheduled an interview with me. You know how agencies are operating.

Question 8: What are the highlights of your career to date? Take some time to talk us through the following Projects with regard to the roles and characters you have played in the roles: I’ve done a lot of Shows, Theatre Pieces and TV Productions of which some where successful whereas some were not because they didn’t meet the criterion for funding by Mzanzi Magic. But recently I shot with the “Queen” playing a character of a Street Vendor who was selling Mjekejeke (IMBIZA), and this was a “scripted role”. I did also a lot of background for TV series with the likes of ISIBAYA in order to understand the atmosphere of the Set and Studio spaces and how actors do their thing just to engage with them.

  • The Cave Production: I had a slot with them in Theatre spaces in Gauteng, Joburg Theatre, Market Theatre, Hillbrow Theatre, WITS Theatre in addition to working with many artists.
  • Ishashalazi– Is a theatre and poetry program wherein artists compete for Gauteng top 10 and the selected shows are taken to the camp to be equipped with the skills in performance. The shows and individuals whose shows wins the program the same are taken to “Art National Festivals in Graham Town”, where there’s scout across the globe for the talent. There’s prices for the shows that wins and awards for best actors and actresses are bestowed to the best performances and shows.
  • Phoyisa– (a 2022 series) its meaning and language in relation to the character played. It’s starting April 2023 I’m not sure with the actual day but it’s going to be on your National Channel 157 Moja Love. There I’m playing a character of a guy who’s in love with a lady who went through a lot, but I was later accused of killing her. There’s too much of investigations happening here, hence its title, “Phoyisa” because there’s police doing justice. It’s a very interesting story look out for it. I’m playing Stukie”, said Mthombeni.

Question 8: You’ve won in a competition conducted by IMTA and DREAM FACTORY. In addition talk to me about the AUDITIONS | TALENT SHOWCASE to be hosted from 25-29 June 2023 in New York City, United States of America. 

Last year 2022 September, I got an opportunity to participate in the auditions competition for Gauteng, so if I’m selected there was going to come again and audition for Gauteng, yes I was selected, I smashed it, than we went to the next level for national auditions for South Africa, I also nailed it to the next level until I was shortlisted to the actors who will be auditioning for the international showcase in America for June 2023, so I also won, the audition were held in Krugersdorp’s Casino’ That last auditions is the one from which I got a callback that I must  to go to the United States of America, New York City to showcase my talent. But I am looking for a Sponsorship for this one because it’s massive, Flight and Accommodation, Food and Training, International Photo-Shoots will be included in the package of R89 507,25.

Question 9: Can you describe your biggest challenge so far in your career? How did you overcome it? For now I’m looking for the Sponsorship to my trip to the United States of America to showcase my talent, so that’s the challenge I’m currently working on. If only I can get one my life would change not only my personal life though but my community will change because I believe that a development must come within the community. Other than that the challenges I always face as an artist for me are not over my shoulders because I believe that everything has its time as long I’m on a right track, will prosper no matter what challenges we come across are not permanent.

 Question 10: You are a man of many talents: I can see that you also have played Sipho’s character from “Nothing but the Truth”, a play by John Kani: kindly tell the readers when was it and the purpose thereof?

It was in 2011 when I got an opportunity to be a cast for the script, it was also a competition brought by the program called GOMMAC in Gauteng, the competition was very huge and very interesting in that there was an opportunity to go play and teach it at high schools as they were doing “Nothing but the Truth” as a drama book. We once performed it for Badirile High school and other neighboring schools. I got a certificate of performing well and I was grateful for everything. The purpose of the competition was to scouts the talent from young upcoming actors and actress but sadly unfortunately we had to be replaced with other production that was playing Wza Albert because one of our cast member fall pregnant and we had to go to the art national festival but the lady was playing Thando was playing the character with a 3 months pregnant so thy had to replace us and there was no way that we can look and cast other character because of the short space of time, the lines was gonna be too much. I was very angry for her, but I had to accept and move on.

Question 11: I can see that you have also CAST at the QUEEN (last year) in 2022, can you talk to us about the character you had played therein!

Was cast for the character of a street vendor selling Mjekejeke (Imbiza) the home remedies for man basically I’m a traditional healer there. It’s scripted. The character was very nice nothing was challenging because I did my research about the character so everything was sweetest.

Question 12:  Have you noticed any changes in the industry? If so, what?

Yes, there’s always changes; you see our industry evolves every time hence I believe that learning must not stop for artist because when we learn we grow and we are able to meet the required standards that is needed in the performing arts. The technology has produced different kind of people, some are called influencers so nowadays we must be informed and engage ourselves to this things in a positive way.

Question 13: You’ve been granted the ability to send a message to a 16-year-old you. What do you say?

Respect yourself and others, know what you want in life and stick to your definite chief aim no matter what. Just know that good things takes time, especially when you are coming from the humble beginning, and even if you get to the limelight learn to stay humble and keep on moving because the sky is the limit. “Always know what you want and move to that direction”, said Mthombeni. Take risks that can benefit and make you grow but obviously golden rule risk.

Question14: Who is your role model in the creative industry, and what is it that they are doing?

Samuel L Jackson, the late Menzi Ngubane and Jimie Bartlett. But I also look up to Dr John Kani

Question 15: Can you talk to me about your motivation and or inspiration to keep you going when the going gets tough? That nothing is impossible in life I believe that you are what you think you are. Love of the industry keeps me going.

Question 15: When was memorable moment for you during the working of the projects, and why?

Working with the well good professional experienced actors and actress is the most amazing and memorable thing ever.

Question 16: Which qualities do you think make a great (artist) and or creative person?

Respect, determination and love for the craft in addition to having the willingness to learn and accept changes. Be able to adapt fast in everything.

Question 17: Do you have any advice for young people interested in doing your kind of job? Yes. Go to school to further your studies, associates with the right people and have love for every being, never judge anyone.

Mpho Edwin Malebye on how he is an Actor!!

Interview With Mpho Edwin Malebye, an Actor!!

Acting can be challenging as well as fulfilling at the same time, depending on how one is prepared to pay the price. In this interview, we are catching up with an Actor, Director, Screenplay Writer, and Drama Teacher who explains how he managed to build a career for himself in an incredibly competitive industry.

Mpho Edwin Malebye is a South African upcoming professional Actor, Director, Screenplay, Writer and Drama Teacher. He is originally from Gauteng Pretoria, but he is currently residing in Johannesburg. Malebye is well known for his acting appearances on TV, but his dream is to have his own production company. He earned his studies from Tshwane South College.

He earned his first appearance in 2021 at “The River Season 4“, 1 Magic as a Drunkard Man working alongside Tshepiso, Beauty, Mabutho and Khabzela. Before the end of 2021 Malebye earned another role at “Ludik Netflix Series Season 1” as Felix working alongside the legendary Actor Arnold Vosloo from “The Mummy and Black Diamond”, Episode 2.

In 2016 Malebye began writing stories and motivational quotes on Facebook as a Feleb for his followers who commented and encouraged him to write books and movies. He later started writing Short films for “YouTube” to entertain his fans.

In 2019 he was approached by a neighbor, Grace Maluleke who offered him a background Actors job at “Ifalakhe Mzansi Magic Series” and the very same day he attended the extras job. He was offered a featured role with no lines working alongside the Queens. One agent Managers working with “Stained Glass TV” project noticed the talent in him and approached him after the shoot. There is an old saying that says “If you hang around the barbershop long enough soon or later you’ll also get a haircut”.

After been asked the Self-tape audition for “The River Season 4” by an agent who later submitted it to the production Team who later called to inform him that he got the role and sent him the Call Sheet. My advice to everyone who want to make it is that, “Don’t listen to people when they say you can’t or won’t make it, keep chasing your God-given until you achieve it”Aspring actors should first prioritize completing their matric in addition to  attending institutions that offers acting classes (or lessons).

At “The River Season 4“, he played the role of a drunkard man who was actually having fun with his girlfriend and a lesbian girl Tshepiso whom everyone hates because of her Gender change came in the tavern to have some few drinks alone. The drunkard man approached Tshepiso and questioned her about her gender change. Tshepiso got angry and frustrated and then picked up the bottle to start the fight with the drunk man who was saying trash about her. The drunkard man and his girlfriend walked out of the tavern swearing at Tshepiso and Mabutho .

The role he played at Ludik Netflix was indeed a blessing and lil bit of a break-through. Mpho Edwin Malebye never went to auditions for this role, he went onset as a background actor then the directors loved his looks and gave him the job. He was playing a role of a character named Filex who ws a Warehouse Manager and he works for Mr Ludik (Arnold Vosloo). On the scene he appeared at warehouse store having a conversations with the boss about Charles who was attacked when Mr Ludik had sent to Zimbabwe to deliver some diamonds. Mr Ludik was suspicious to Felix who was a friend to Charles, but was disappointed after finding out that Felix doesn’t know anything about Charles’ whereabouts.

Screenwriters write and develop screenplays for film or TV drama. They do this either based on an original idea, by adapting an existing story into a Screenplay or by joining an existing project on TV. When we use the term ‘screenwriter,’ it may imply the intended usage for the Writer’s Creative Output. It follows that screenplays are scripts that are written specifically for film and TV, or for theater.  Both Screenwriter and Scriptwriter does one and the same work though their titles indicates their intended use of their scripts. On the other hand, when we use ‘scriptwriter could certainly be writing for film and TV, but they might equally be writing other types of scripts outside of video production. For example, they might be writing branching dialogue, or non-playable character bios for narrative video gaming development, which has a different format and use case than a screenplay.

Mpho Edwin Malebye worked with Clive Morris Production as a featured extra who was Shadrack’s comrade who never had a serious role to play. He continued working as an extra with Clive Morris as his goal is to be part of the team.

Moja Love” on Kasi Swindlers Mashaya as Mr Ex who is an abusive boyfriend who is dating a gay person and use him for his money and clothes. Mathabatha and Mr Ex story is on “Episode 4 of Kasi Swindlers” (Mashaya) on Moja love. Supporting role on “Majakathata Sitcom Series Season 3 on SABC2” playing a role of “Second Man“. He appeared playing cards with Khanya who won the game. Second man wanted his money back and threatened Khaya (Episode Scene 4), (Lingashoni season 2) as Thief 1. He appeared working alongside with Thato Molamu who plays Papi on Lingashoni. On all the scenes (Scene 152 and 153) he is exchanging money with Papi and importantly, the script had no lines but Mpho Edwin Malebye created his (own lines) which were approved by the Directors and Producers.

He was given a supporting role as Guru on “Hope TV Channel International” (DSTV), whereas in “Isinqumo Sami Series” he played as the boss in prison who terrorize new inmates. (Episode 7, 8 and 9). Mpho benefited a lot by working around Arnold Vosloo who helped him in building his confidence in acting and to also understanding that entering the scene to play the role of another person (character) is invaluable.

Mpho Edwin Malebye realized that acting is almost like a part time job because sometimes there’s work and sometimes there’s no work. He believes that artists should have multiple streams of businesses that generates income to cater for the needs of the family. He finds pleasure working with kids and helping them to reach their dreams in the entertainment industry.

“My role model is Casper Nyovest, I am inspired by how he hustles and always make things happen, said Mpho Edwin Malebye. He is a go getter and makes a lot of money from across all the sectors. Mpho runs and owns a Cleaning Service from which to spend time when he is not onset.

The memorable moment for Mpho was when he was working with “Moja Love” because that’s when he tasted how it feels like to be a celebrity. He was a lead actor on the show and was getting the best treatment by fans who asked taking pictures with him while he thought he was unknown.

He is of the view that having respect, working hard every day on one’s craft, being consistent and respond to gigs on time and never been late onset is key. He advised aspiring actors not to always wait for handouts, but to go out and ensure that their dreams come true.

Business Of Music with Esene ThankGod!!

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Interview With Esene ThankGod, a Professional Musician!!!

Business of Music with Esene ThankGod, a Christian, Musician, Pianist, Piano & Music Tutor, Music Consultant, Music Producer, Mix Engineer, and Mastering Engineer and founder of Psalter Studios.

“Working within music can be hard, as the work often brings about a lack of stability. In this interview, Esene ThankGod from Psalter Studios explains how he managed to build a career for himself in a highly competitive environment.”

Esene ThankGod is born into a family of which he is first in the side of the four (4) men. He describe himself as an introverted and calm always. “I’m a Christain and a Musician |Pianist| Piano & Music Tutor |Music Consultant |Music Producer |Mix Engineer | and Mastering Engineer”.

Esene ThankGod conceded that a Pianist best describes him simply because he has been playing the Piano a long time (25 years this year, to be specific) before studying music and making Piano his major in the year 2005. It was later that same year that he started Psalter Studios.

With regard to developing his art career Esene ThankGod has emphasised (everything) building on a strong foundation of love, love for Music and love for the Piano before pointing on attributes such as HARD WORK, DILIGENCE and CONSISTENCY. “It was easy to focus on Music because I love it, I’ve always felt like I had something to say musically and something to give, says Esene ThankGod.

Esene is so talented to an extent of taking a raw musical ideas and transforms them into a complete music and or something to work with (in music). His thoughts for music is more the same as taking it (music) as a person that has personalities and feelings that he could create stories and make statements via sounds. So it was easy for me to focus and dedicate my life to music, expressing her through an instrument (Piano). In the music industry, producing music is seen as a way to express self and the music within.

Esene ThankGod’s preferred PUBLICITY that works and yields results is a Webinar on Digital Marketing Strategies to get a good number of customers (100  to be specific) in 30 days. It was held on Facebook and was anchored by Syvanus Patrick. It was held on the 26th December 2022 though he couldn’t attend following other prior (urgent) engagement.

“Yes, I like describing myself as the “Head Music Producer” at Psalter Studios because I have plans to grow the Studio such that I would be in a position to employ other Music Producers and Engineers so they too can do what they love and earn a good living from it. Psalter Studios was created and or established in October 2005.

The motive behind the establishment of Psalter Studios was to serve (all the community) of musicians and artists who wants to record their music. “I remember how some friend would complain to me about how bad their recording went and sounds, how the music producer or recording Engineer did not capture their exact vision”, says Esene ThankGod. He further mentioned that some musicians would tell him about their poor mix after so much hard work in putting the music together (in the studio). Despite feeling bad about the other (artists) or musicians’ feelings and experiences I prioritize serving them rather than talking too much.  I don’t just work, but I ensure that every work that I touch with my magical hands turns into a quality work following thorough research.

“Most of the time I work alone, although here are times I’ve had assistants and students coming through to work with me”, says Esene ThakGod. There are times when I’ll have to collaborate and or work with other Music Producers and Co-Producers on other people’s projects. On the other hand Esene prefers to work outside Psalter Studios as either a Pianist or Recording Engineer and Producer, or simply as a Music Consultant.

Esene ThankGod does not shy away from acknowledging and admitting all the challenges and pitfalls in order for him to move forward and make progress. “I love music. I count myself privileged to do what I love and make a living through and from it. For that, I’m (forever) grateful to God Almighty for His grace and provision upon my life, confirmed Esene.

It is absolutely important to mention that discipline and commitment are invaluable to embrace when people want to get things (work) done even when the circumstances are difficult to work under and yielding the desired results.  As artists (musicians) there are times you don’t feel like working, there it is where you’ll have to push yourself because you want to express yourself through your artwork. “One need to be disciplined enough to ensure that they show up no matter what!! No matter how hard or discouraging it may be, but just show up”,says Esene ThankGod. There’s is also the part when you show up and just listening to other people’s music to learn and relax. Many times, that too motivates me.

On making a list of the skills required in order to make it as a musician, Esene ThankGod pointed the following; (a) a knowledge of Music (b) basic Music Theory (at least) (c) a study of the Piano (Jazz Piano specifically) (d) ability to play an  instrument, it’s not a requirement in music production, but it helps a lot. This should be accompanied by the knowledge of how various instruments blends and how they work together to produce sounds. Aspiring musicians should be acquainted with the following: Vocal Production, Mixing and Mastering.

“I’ve been playing Piano for more than 25 years in addition to been a Music Producer for 13 years. I’m not sure when I discovered that music was my passion because it has always been what I did naturally, I would play Piano and do Music at church, and I still do it”, said Esene. He was reminded of a day before his JAMB Exams, after having gone out for Piano Practice and got home very late, and that angered his father.

On the other hand, Esene was privileged to have listened to a talk (in 2010) by Les Brown who talked about passion and how to go for it thereby putting aside all fears, then I decided I was going to do music as a profession and commit myself to her fully. “I was born and brought up in Benin City, Nigeria where I am currently working and doing business from my studio (Psalter Studios).

Currently, I’m working on an album, an EP and some some singles for some clients. So for now, I’m not doing any collaborations, said Esene TankGod.

OKAY, Qualities…First, an artist should be able to express music, taking a musical thought and interpreting it in his or her own unique way based on what he or she feels and knows musically. You see, it might sound old school or unpopular, but an artist should be able to play an instrument (Piano or Guitar), Esene advised! Additionally, an artist should have a vision for his or her own music, or musical project if they want to make it in real life.

Esene ThankGod’s advice to (the) aspiring artists is that they shouldn’t be in a hurry to be at the top because that will exert unnecessary pressure in them and end up making unhealthy compromises. First, learn about why you are doing or intend doing music, the answer that comes from this is what will keep you in the years to come, when you feel like giving up.

Learn about your craft, PRACTICE! PRACTICE!! PRACTICE!!! Do something everyday to make you better than yesterday. Stay in your lane, know the season you’re in and do your best. Some are in the season of planting, so sow seeds. Others are in the season of cultivation and strengthening foundations, do so. Note that you’re not in completion with anyone, you should compete and be better than the person you were yesterday.

Be Consistent, Show up even when you don’t feel like it. Be committed. Know your Craft. When you feel like giving up, remember why you started in the first place. Collaborate with other musicians and have Iike minded people around you. Read and study the history of artist you admire. It will give you wisdom and motivate you.

Look for opportunities to serve. It could be in church, serving God, it could be helping other people in the ways you can. Just keep Moving.

Press Release on Ntsikwane’s Car Boot Unplugged!!!

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Ntsikwane’s Car Boot Unplugged is a live music session where musicians perform live from the boot of a car. The concept was created by Ntsikwane in 2017 as way to break the conventional setting of live music performances. It was a way for her to create a different space for performances due to the lack of live music venues in Polokwane. Ntsikwane’s Car Boot Unplugged allowed her to take her music directly to her audience through driving to local parks and reserves and performing from her car boot. The concept was soon picked up my Jeep Limpopo and sponsored with vehicles for performances. Audi Centre Polokwane came on board as a main sponsor in 2018 and the event took place at Radisson by Park Inn Polokwane.

Ntsikwane’s Çar Boot Unplugged makes its return in 2022 sponsored by the SAMPRA development fund. The event will take place at Mercedes Benz Polokwane on the 2nd of December 2022.

The purpose of Ntsikwane’s Car Boot Unplugged is to bring music lovers together in a space that they would not normally visit for a live performance – a car dealership. It also take away the usual performance stage that they are accustomed to and places the artists in car boots. Besides the unconventional setting of the performance, the main objective of the event is for the audience to get an intimate musical experience of the artists and to hear their music as it was when they initially composed it without the band. The QUESTIONS  and ANSWERS session after each performance will also provide an opportunity for the audience to ask the artists questions about their music and life in general, something that hardly happens at your regular conventional performance(s).

For enquiries:

Wandile 0812748137

Mokgadi 0714448982

Nzuri the Songwriter & CEO of Nzuri Publishing!!!

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Briefly tell (talk to) Me about Nzuri The (ZURI) Songwriter with regard to who she is and what she does as a creative person?

Nzuri is an artist and or a musician who is full of life and energy. She is a thinker who uses real-life situations to create beautiful melodies which are pleasing and makes me happy. Actually, I am proud of the melodies I create and it (sometimes) feels like I did not create those ones. I am a hard working woman who teaches herself daily about songwriting and music in addition to keeping myself abreast with what is happening in the industry!!

I see myself advancing my skills , I compare songs for 2 yrs ago to now I see the growth.

You mentioned that you are originally from Cincinnati, Ohio but currently residing in Atlanta Georgia, was this a business move or what?

“I love Atlanta City, it was a place I always wanted to move to, a place I always wanted to live at”, Said Nzuri. I always wanted to live there, since when I was fifteen (15) years old. At least it happened late in 2015, but better late than never. When I was in the Hair Industry in Ohio I would always come down for the Atlanta Hair Show because I had a sense of belonging to the city.

You are an INDIE SONG WRITER| INDIE MUSIC PUBLISHER | ARTIST AND IMAGE CONSULTANT| SONG PITCHER | CEO | which role best describes you here, and why?

I am honestly fit well the description of Music Publisher, Music Pitching and Songwriting, as this is what I do (almost) everyday with the intention of promoting my brand and to also sell my artworks through good branding.

How did you get here or what made you to focus on Songwriting and also assuming the CEO role?

Songwriting was my passion, it was something I excelled (at) in doing which is why I followed and developed myself on everything associated with Music Publishing Industry.   My ambitions and passion were knitted together on publishing hence I decided to create “Nzuri Publishing”.

When did you start Singing and or engaging in Songwriting?

I started writing songs as a teenager, and this was done for myself because I considered it as my own personal therapy.  I was always good at creating stories, and writing songs about personal situations I found myself in or that affects other people.  I started singing at a very early age, I had a friend who encouraged me to become an artist and that made me pursue my Songwriting career.  He said to me, “You need to start singing your own songs”, and since then I never looked back.

Can you briefly tell us about your job and or role of been a Singer and a CEO at the same time (how do you alternate the roles and responsibilities here)?

I do what is called multi-tasking in order to emerge successful in both jobs as they all demanding.  I have a taste for music and I know when a song is going to be a hit or not or just for pitching it!!

On the other hand, been a Music Publisher is a lot work as it involves finding artist, research their style, genre, and listening to few of their songs. On top of this, one ought to reach out to Music Managers, Labels, and Producers searching for their contacts details. Pitching to Music Libraries is easy as it involves uploading of one’s music in addition to negotiating contracts and signing after reading the FINE PRINT.

You are an Entrepreneur and or CEO of Nzuri Publishing how long have you been in the role?

Nzuri publishing was born in 2015 the first time I introduced my Songwriting to the world.

Briefly describe your background in relation to you as the CEO and Songwriter at Nzuri Publishing. Is there a specific meaning attached to the name “Nzuri”, explain please!!

Being the CEO of Nzuri Publishing entails working a lot. I work in all the positions such as writing, producing, administrative, marketing , pitching , funding , and negotiating contracts. Largest companies have employees for each department and or for different tasks. I am doing everything on my own, but I am working on getting a team together soon.

Well, Nzuri means beautiful in Swahili language. I also own a hair Salon named after me, “Nzuri Hair Salon”. Interestingly, “Nzuri the Songwriter and Nzuri Publishing” were both born from “Nzuri Hair Salon”.

How long have you been a musician, and when did you learn that your passion is in it?

To be honest I have been writing songs to myself (ever since) I was a teenager.  I didn’t introduce my talent to the world until I moved to ATLANTA in 2015, said Nzuri.

Can you please take some time to talk to our readers about the following songs:

  • You got it, I got it too. You Can’t Control Me with your Money(What can our readers learn from this or what is the message you’re conveying here)?

I Got it – is about a Self Sufficient Woman  whose boyfriend tell her to focus on her goals 100% and don’t work as he promised to take good care of her.  Once she made the move, he started to use what he did for her (with his money) as a controlling. So,  you stated ,“ It’s something you don’t even know, but let me , let you know “ I Got it”

  • Foolin, (Your 2019 Single) What are you communicating with this single here?

Song was created in response to the differences between myself and my former boyfriend who thought he was Foolin Me. Instead I hit back by stating the same question, “Who do you think you’re foolin”. This song is about woman having boundaries and not letting man come in her life only when it is convenient for him and when he’s not ready for commitment. Basically, if (commitment) is not what you wants to do , don’t come into my life.

  • I like What I see(Featuring Louis Jake) What is the song about?

This is about when man sees an elegant, beautiful (brown) woman with a body of a “goddess” passes by he aims at getting her attention. He can’t keep his eyes off her!

Who are you collaborating with and what is it that you expecting to benefit from the collaboration you’re involved in?

Collaboration with a male RNB artist since in music business collaborating, networking and building relationships especially when your plan is to fully pursue music as a career.

Can you talk to me about your motivation and or inspiration in Music, what keeps you going? What skills do one requires to be able to work effectively and efficiently as a musician (effectively and successively)?

What keeps me going Songwriting and Music which are my passion and something(s) that I love and enjoy(s) doing (It’s my therapy).

Which qualities do you think makes a great (musician) artist?

Being a Musician is an art, everyone have their own unique qualities which emanates from vocals , fast rap flow , writing style,etc.  In their uniqueness, they bring something on the table, and that is translated as art.

What is your advice to the aspiring artists?

Stay Consistent with your Music,  surround yourself with individuals that inspire and support you!!.

Sundowns, Pirates played goal-less draw in MTN 8 ‘Star Derby’ Semi Final(s)!!

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  • Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates played to a goalless draw in their MTN8 first leg Semi-final at the Orlando Stadium on Saturday.
  • The duo (teams) will meet again on the 22nd October 2022 in Limpopo (Polokwane) at the Peter Mokaba Stadium where a winner will have to be crowned.
  • Pirates who were expected (by many soccer lovers) played well enough to avoid humiliating defeat against Ma-Sundowane for the first time in five matches.

(At the Orlando Stadium on Saturday the 1st October 2022 (at 15h00 South African time).

Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates played to a goalless draw when they met in their MTN8 first leg semi-final at the Orlando Stadium on Saturday the 1st October 2022. The tournament has been routinely marred by the early exits by the big teams who suffers humiliating defeats in the hands of the small teams.

Sundowns went to the match as the DEFENDING champions, whereas Pirates came in as the team which WON the title the season before. Though the TWO teams played to a goal-less draw, the players were at their best to ensure that they play quality soccer.

The game was unique in that it was the first between the due (Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates) South African CAF Champions League winners with a crowd since 2020. In the past the “Star Derby” game between the DUO was won 1-0 by Pirates through a Gabadinho Mhango goal, whereas on the other hand Sundowns appeared to have extended their dominance by winning their last five games against Pirates convincingly.

It must be remembered that Pirates head to the second leg against Sundowns having not conceded puts them in the pound seats as the away goals rule works in their favour. Though Pirates came in as the team which deserves to win the game, they couldn’t quite get the better of Sundown’s impenetrable defence.

As seen from the game, Sundowns weren’t quite played off the park, but counterpunched in a quietly classy manner that will give Pirates (some) sleepless nights when they meet again on 22 October 2022.

That the game also started on time was also down to unusual punctuality that saw two-thirds of the stadium filled out before kick-off.

While there were small, unruly elements from both sides of the fans were generally well-behaved with a level of organization and cohesion that isn’t always associated with football games here in South Africa.

However, the one thing that can’t be ruled out from football watchers in SA is the need to stand during the game (which makes it difficult for others to watch the game with ease).

In what was the first half of half-chances, the closest any team came to a goal was when Monnapule Saleng’s 12th minute freekick came off the crossbar. With the diminutive but highly magisterial Phillip Ndlondlo pulling strings in midfield, Pirates did most of the running.

One of Ndlondlo’s passes in the 31st minute found a surging Deon Hotto, but a bad first touch and an equally forgettable pass to an incoming Zakhele Lepasa meant Pirates fluffed a straightforward chance.

Equally speaking, Sundowns also had three half chances of their own, two of which fell to Khuliso Mudau, who in the 23rd and 25th minutes was ponderously indecisive when in clear possession in Pirates’ box.

The significant change(s) was attained in the second half with the game coming to life in the 51st minute when Lepasa had a shot that was well saved by Sundowns keeper Ronwen Williams.

In the 76th minute when Mokoena, who missed a tough 70th minute chance, opted to pass in the box when there was a chance to test Richard Ofori.

Then in the 81st minute, Kermit Erasmus, who came on in the 59th minute for Lepasa to the loudest cheer of the game, nearly raised the roof with an excellent long-range effort that was well saved by Williams.

The game ended bitterly with no WINNER from both sides in the last minutes,  but the scene had been set for a crackerjack return leg on the 22nd October 2022.

Wafa wafa!

What does it takes to be a Film & Documentary Editor?

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Question 1: Can you take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers, especially, with regard to your name, place of birth and what you do as a creative person?

My name is Nomfundo Lucia Masango and I was born in Watervall Boven but grew up in Kwamhlanga and in a couple of different counties. I am mainly a Video Editor, but I also dabble in Acting and Music Production.

Question 2: You are a FILM EDITOR | DOCUMENTARY EDITOR| VIDEO EDITOR| ASSISTANT EDITOR, which role best describes you here, and why?

I’d say the title that best describes me is simply “Editor” because it’s all encompassing of all the above skills.

Question 3: I can see that you have studied at “The Australian National University”, what is it that you have studied, when was it, and for how long did you take to complete your studies?

Yes, I finished high school in Australia and also undertook my University qualification(s) there. I obtained a Bachelors of Visual Arts with honors (BA Visual Arts Hons) and I majored in Digital Media. My degree was four years long, from 2010-2013.

Question 4: How long have you been a creative person, and when did you learn that your passion is in it?

I’ve been a creative person for as long as I can remember. I wasn’t always sure what in the creative industry I’d become, and I can honestly say that editing is something that I stumbled across. During my last year at university, I joined one of the Student Media organizations and (one of) my responsibility was to “film and edit” the social events at school for Social Media. I took a liking to it, especially the editing, and I’ve never looked back ever since.

Question 3: How did you get here or what made you to focus on the above (the career path you have undertaken) as a young woman since this was a male dominated industry? What skills do one require(s) to be able to work effectively and efficiently in all the roles you occupied?

What made me focus on editing was my love for it. It’s not the easiest of careers, it’s time consuming and working long hours is often the norm, but it’s also highly rewarding and gratifying. Yes, it’s a male dominated industry but I’ve never let that affect me and my goals for my career. If anything, it gives me more drive.

Within the roles that I occupy, one always needs to be open to learning new things and be able to adapt to different workflows. With every job I’ve taken on, I’ve had to learn something new and adapt to the workflow best suited for the project. It’s also important to have an understanding of the Software in Post Production and to also understand things from Technical Point of View (TPV) which will help enormously when setting up workflow and communicating with different departments.

Question 4Can you briefly tell us about what you do (role) at NETFLIX as a 2nd Assistant Editor (One Piece)!! What does the work of a 2nd Assistant Editor entails on a daily basis?

As a 2nd Assistant Editor on One Piece, my main responsibility was to process dailies and prepare the footage for editors to cut. That is typically the main role for a 2nd Assistant Editor, but this role also comes with administrative duties.

Question 5Is there some differences between the different roles you have occupied as 1st Assistant Editor (- Recipes for Love and Murder) and or to 2nd Assistant Editor in terms of their responsibilities? Which one do you prefers here between the TWO and why?

Yes, although these two roles overlap there are some clear differences between the (m) two. As I mentioned before, the main responsibility of a 2nd Assistant Editor is to process dailies. The 1st Assistant Editor will also process dailies but their role also involves setting up the project and working closely with the editor to source music, temp Sound Effects and any other elements that are required in editing.

Question 6: Briefly talk to me about your roles on the following projects:

  • The Undocumented: Women On Mines – Teaser Trailer: This was a short documentary that I edited for an NGO and I was responsible for all aspects of Post Production process.
  • Video Editor – Forever Young (S02): This was a TV show in which I was one of the Two Editors. My responsibility for this show was just to Offline Edit and put in Subtitles.
  • Forever Young S2 – Episode 8: This was a TV Show in which I was one of the Two Editors. My responsibility for this show was just to Offline Edit and put in Subtitles.

Question 7It is good to hear that the film which you created the audio/visuals and content is on YouTube and Instagram, what is the title of the film and when was it created?

The Short Film that I produced was part of an Anthology which was called “Locks of Love”. It was an Australian Production, but I don’t think it was ever put online.

Question 8: You have less than a year working for NETFLIX, very busy and competitive environment to work at, can you briefly describe your day at work here!!

I have had the best experience working on Netflix Productions. I have been lucky to have worked with amazing teams and with people who are extremely supportive and open to sharing their knowledge with others.

Question 9: Who is your role model in the creative industry, and what is it that they are doing?

Wow, that is a tough call. I’ve truly worked with incredibly talented editors who I all look up to for different reasons, but the one editor I aspire to is Andrea Shaw. Andrea is a Cape Town based Editor and her love for editing is contagious. Apart from being an exceptional Storyteller, no matter how tough things get in the edit room, she always remains optimistic. She always backs her team and never misses a ‘please’ or ‘thank you’. It’s so easy to let this job consume your entire life, but she maintains relentless discipline in the office which enables her to achieve a work/life balance. She is an absolute pleasure to work with and I can only hope to be somewhat like when I reach her level of achievement.

Question 10: Can you talk to me about your motivation and or inspiration to keep you going when the going gets tough?

Hmmmm, often what keeps me motivated and inspired are the team of people I’m working with. I am currently editing a feature documentary, and it’s not always easy to look at that timeline. But when I think of the Director whose story I’m telling as well and the amazing Producer, I just can’t let them down. I’ve been entrusted with a delicate project and no matter what mood I’m in or what little motivation I have, I can’t break their trust.

Question 11: Which qualities do you think make a great (artist) and or creative person?

I think some qualities that make a great artist are honesty and integrity. I believe in creating from a place of honesty and truth. Whether I am Editing or Writing Lyrics or Acting, if I don’t believe what I am doing I can’t expect to move, touch or inspire others with my work. I believe a great artist approaches their craft with integrity and embrace whatever result will come.

Question 12: What is your advice to the aspiring (youth) artists?

My advice to aspiring young artists is to do what brings you joy, because that is what you will always gravitate towards and that is what will be fulfilling to you.