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.

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”.

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 13^th 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.

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 1^st I had to improvise my whole dialogues with the other actors, 2^nd I had to develop a Colored accent, 3^rd 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, 1^st you compete with experienced actors, 2^nd 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 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.

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.

“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.

Wishing our nation happier times through positivity and togetherness. May we restore the harmony and bond of love we always shared as countrymen.

“If calamities had the weight of physical objects we should long have been crushed down, or else, we should by now have been hunchbacked, unsteady on our feet, and with faces full of gloom and utter despair.

Yet my entire body throbs with life and is full of expectations. Each day brings a fresh stock of experiences and new dreams.”

– Nelson Mandela: (From writings while incarcerated in 1970).