Wyebank learner to act in ‘Shaka iLembe’

A WYEBANK Secondary School learner is flying the school’s flag high as she is set to travel to Johannesburg for the next six months to pursue her childhood dream of being on stage and in front of cameras.

Sanelisiwe Khanyile was chosen to be part of a popular drama series, Shaka iLembe Season 2.

Set in the 1700s, Shaka iLembe tells the story of the making of the iconic African king, with iterations from his early childhood through to adulthood.

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The dramatic arts student, who is enrolled with Imbumba Casting Agency, said she believes that she was meant to be on stage.

“I have always loved acting, especially lead characters. In my community, I would gather other youngsters and create a short drama with Sarafina being my favourite to act,” she said.

The overwhelmed 17-year-old said it still feels like a dream, and she hopes that this is the first of many opportunities to pursue what she loves.

Principal of the school Rose Govender said she is so proud of Sanelisiwe. “This will motivate and elevate our learners. Our learners will have hope and see that everything is possible. She is a good role model to the school.”

Govender said Sanelisiwe’s mother is a past learner at the school. “I taught her. She was a good role model and beautiful just like her daughter,” she said with a smile.

She added that the school has made arrangements for their learner to keep up with her schoolwork. “The teachers have already prepared her learning packs. She has our full support.”

Her dramatic arts educator, Thandeka Luthuli, said Sanelisiwe will definitely uplift the school’s name.

“She is a pleasure to teach. She does not hesitate to engage in things. She is a good reader, a natural performer and does not hesitate to participate in any activities. I am very proud of her and wish her all the best,” said Luthuli.

The Grade Eleven learner will be shooting for the next six months but will return to school to write her exams.

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