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Throughout her two decades in the industry, Sodlaka has often been asked by fans and aspiring creatives for guidance and advice.
The Zikhona Sodlaka Masterclass is a space for creatives to grow, learn and be empowered, through guided and interactive engagement. Picture: Supplied
In celebration of 20 years in the industry, actress Zikhona Sodlaka is hosting masterclasses to share her knowledge with the next generation of creatives.
In her 20 years in the industry, Sodlaka says she has always received requests for advice from fans who are aspiring actors or creatives.
“I was busy doing the work. Now this year, because of this incredible realisation that I’m turning 40 years young, while celebrating 20 years, I think now I have one, the time and [two] the confidence to say I’ve got something to offer you,” Sodlaka told The Citizen.
The Zikhona Sodlaka Masterclass is a space for creatives to grow, learn, and empower through guided and interactive engagement.
“The 20-year-long journey that I’ve accumulated this far definitely had a lot of participation from people who’ve supported my career, and in that 20 years, the questions have been coming from my people, but just couldn’t at the time
“I finally have the opportunity I’ve been looking for, to kind of look back and like almost pass this baton that my supporters have been wanting me to pass even before now.”
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Sodlaka’s new role
Sodlaka’s career spans television, film, and theatre, shaping South Africa’s cultural landscape with captivating performances and authentic storytelling.
Her career started on the popular SABC 1 educational drama Tsha Tsha, which was in its fourth season. She says her introduction into the industry was advantageous because of the talent she worked alongside.
“Being thrown into the beautiful deep end that I was thrown into, swimming with sharks, killer whales, and dolphins, which were these icons and legends I was working with. In my first show, I worked with sis Vatiswa Ndara, who played my mom. I worked on a show that had umama uNomhle Nkonyeni,” she says.
Now, she’s stepping into a new role: mentor, teacher, and guide for aspiring talent nationwide.
In addition to marking 20 years in the film and television industry, Sodlaka also celebrates her 40th birthday this year.
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Giving back
Attendees will gain tools on owning their voice, navigating the industry and building longevity in the entertainment space.
“From characterisation, to navigating the business of the arts, to branding…it’s a full day,” says Sodlaka about the masterclass programme.
As part of the masterclass programme, surprise acts will join Sodlaka in each province.
The masterclass tour will visit six cities, starting at the end of May in Gqeberha’s Nelson Mandela University, stopping in Cape Town and Bloemfontein, and wrapping up in Johannesburg in August.
“I almost did make the mistake of only going to the major cities until there was a call from a few people saying ‘hey, don’t leave us out’.”
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