Scandal actor reaching for the heights
If he is not showcasing his acting skills as Scelo, on the popular eTV show Scandal, Mbulelo Ndlazilwana is lending a helping hand to those in need.
The 18-year-old Brentwood Park resident and former Rynfield Primary School learner has come a long way to achieve the stardom he enjoys today.
He realised his passion for acting through his grandparents, who fuelled his interest.
“I realised my passion when my grandparents, Geoffrey Mbenge and Frances Ndlazilwana, who have been in the industry for more than 20 years, introduced me to it in 2005; from then on I fell in love with acting,” said Mbulelo.
His big break came in 2005, when he was part of an Nigerian advert for Indomin Noodles.
“We shot it in Cape Town and I travelled with my grandfather; it was an all expense paid trip, plus I had fun on the production,” he said.
Since then he has gone on to score roles in some of South Africa’s popular TV shows, such as Generations, Home Affairs, Mfolozi Street and Shreds and Dreams, to name a few.
Mbulelo is inspired by people who are constantly pushing and thriving to better themselves in any way.
His role models include Denzel Washington and veteran South African actor Menzi Ngubane.
Even though Mbulelo has achieved so much, he hopes to work on a number of other projects and grow as an actor and director.
“I’m undergoing directing, editing and script writing training on Scandal, as my other passions are directing and film making,” he said.
His advice to aspiring actors is to always ”have a thick skin”.
“The television industry has come a long way and boasts a number of entertainments, but it’s quite a tough industry to be in,” he added.
The actor has a strong support system from his faith and family, who keep him constantly motivated.
When he is not in front of the camera you can find him listening to music, hanging out with friends or lifting weights at the gym.
At such a young age Mbulelo has already reached a number of milestones within his career, but he also finds time to give back to the Sithabile Child and Youth Care Centre, in Putfontein.
“My family and I help the centre with fund-raising and if they need help with cleaning, getting sponsors, food and clothing,” he said.
His ultimate aim is to help more charities within Benoni, before spreading his helping hand to other areas.
Watch Mbulelo showcasing his acting skills on Scandal, weekdays at 7.30pm, on eTV.
